The Minnesota Care Force Incentive program was a state initiative that aimed to address the shortage of direct support professionals (DSPs) in Minnesota by providing bonuses to eligible long-term care workers. Through this program, employers applied on behalf of their DSPs to receive incentives of up to $1,000 per worker, which were then paid to the eligible employees. The funds, approved in 2023, were intended to recognize the essential work of DSPs and help retain them in their high-demand roles.

Key Details:
  • Purpose: To reward and retain direct support professionals (DSPs) working in long-term care.
  • Funding: Supported by $84 million in funding approved in 2023.
  • Eligible Workers: Direct support professionals who assist aging residents, people with disabilities, and children with autism.
  • Incentive Amount: Up to $1,000 per eligible professional.
  • Application Process: Employers, rather than individual workers, applied to the state to receive funds for their employees.
  • Goal: To address the critical shortage of DSPs in the state’s long-term care sector.

We are proud to share that our organization has been approved for the grant. Disbursements are expected to begin in September. Please note that only employees who were actively employed at the time of the grant application will be eligible for award distribution.