Research & Innovation

We put your ideas in motion

Finding transportation solutions

In a rapidly changing world, research and innovation enable MnDOT to continuously improve how it designs and delivers infrastructure, how it operates the system, and how it responds to problems and issues as they arise. This work helps MnDOT understand what Minnesotans need and expect from their transportation system and the effects of this system on the economy and the environment.

Check out our 2025 Annual Report (PDF) to see how we're making a difference.

R&I updates

Transportation Research Showcase

Tuesday, October 6, 1-3 p.m. – The Office of Research & Innovation is hosting the first ever Transportation Research Showcase in the MnDOT library, an open house featuring poster sessions of MnDOT and Local Road Research Board research projects completed in 2025-2026.

Research awards announced

February 5, 2026 – Funding awards for the 2027 annual academic research solicitation are now available. We thank all those who participated in the proposal process.

MnDOT innovation awards

October 30, 2025 - The first MnDOT Innovation Awards were announced. Read more about them at Minnesota Innovation Showcase.

Academic research RFP

July 31, 2026 – Qualified universities will be invited to submit proposals for the next RFP beginning on July 31. To be eligible to participate in MnDOT’s academic research program, universities must be invited to apply for the qualified academic institution list. .