Greater Pine Area Endowment Grant

The Greater Pine Area Endowment is a partner fund under the umbrella of the Initiative Foundation. Its mission is to provide financial support for long-term strategic needs of the Greater Pine Area Community, primarily focusing on economic and community development. The endowment seeks to support projects that lead to quality job creation, high-tech employment opportunities, environmental stewardship, community beautification, and services benefiting vulnerable populations such as youth, the elderly, and low-income individuals. This fund is professionally managed by the Initiative Foundation, which ensures responsible stewardship and long-term benefit to the community. The Initiative Foundation itself is committed to empowering residents of Central Minnesota by helping build a thriving economy, vibrant communities, and a strong culture of generosity. Local volunteers serve on the advisory team for the Greater Pine Area Endowment, combining regional insight with professional oversight to guide grantmaking decisions and strategic direction. Eligibility for funding is limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, units of government, or public school districts that serve residents within the boundaries of ISD 578. Projects must align with the fund’s stated priorities in either economic or community development. Applicants are instructed that proposed projects for the spring round should not begin before May 15, while those for the fall round should not commence before October 15. The deadline for fall submissions is August 31. The application process requires applicants to adhere strictly to guidelines and ensure projects align with the endowment's mission. Though specific application questions are not listed, general expectations can be inferred from the alignment with funding priorities. Evaluation criteria include relevance to community needs, potential for positive impact, and organizational eligibility. The fund has a record of consistent grantmaking, with over 600 grants awarded totaling more than $607,000 since its inception. Contact for the fund includes both local advisory members and professionals at the Initiative Foundation. Key contacts are Amy Gray, Community Philanthropy Manager ([email protected], 320-631-2065), and Carl Newbanks, Vice President of Philanthropy ([email protected], 320-631-2042). Additional administrative support is provided by Becky Schueller ([email protected], 320-322-4040).