Minnesota Private Grants

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is currently accepting applications for its Small-Town Grant Program. Donor Name: Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Small Town Grant Program seeks to invest in collaborative initiatives which improve the way your community works together, solves challenges, creates a welcoming community and sense of belonging for all. SMIF seeks proposals which focus on collaboration throughout the project and will impact the culture, education, economy and/or social aspects of your community. Funding Information  Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation offers up to $10,000. Grant Period 12 Months. Geographic Areas Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation serves south central and southeastern Minnesota which includes 20 counties, 175 communities and one Native nation. This includes the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Dodge, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Goodhue, Martin, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Mower, Rice, Olmsted, Steele, Sibley, Waseca, Wabasha, Winona and Watonwan, as well as Dakota Oyate (Prairie Island Indian Community). Eligibility Criteria  Eligible organizations are units/agencies of government, IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations (current status, not pending), and public institutions (public schools, public higher education, etc.) Organizations which do not comply with the above status may seek a fiscal agent who holds one of the above legal statuses. Exclusions Individuals, businesses, or other for-profit organizations General operating expenses and expenses not directly related to the project Programs or services mandated by law Routine maintenance Campaigns or endowments For more information, visit SMIF.

Applications are now being accepted for the Hunger and Homeless Grant Program towards agencies serving adults, families and youth experiencing homelessness and food insecurity throughout Minnesota. Donor Name: Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The primary goal is to ensure that these providers of crisis services have the tools, equipment, and infrastructure necessary to best serve those in need. Preference is given to services for people who are currently homeless – on the street or in shelters. Funding Priorities The focus of agency services is on the front end of the continuum. For agencies serving individuals, families and youth experiencing homelessness, preference is given to services for those who are currently homeless – on the street or in shelters (Emergency or Domestic Violence Shelters). Transitional housing has lower priority than shelter. Permanent supportive housing programs are unlikely to receive funding. Hunger programs must be open and free to all in need. Geographic service boundaries are acceptable, but agencies requiring program participation, membership, purchase of food, attendance/participation in religious service, etc., as a requirement to receive food are unlikely to be funded. Infrastructure or equipment for shelters or food shelves must benefit the areas where clients are served improve access to services. Administrative areas, parking lots, etc., are unlikely to be funded. Preference is given to projects that remove barriers, increase the numbers of people served and/or improve the quality of services provided. Funding Information $7,000 Eligible Activities The primary purpose of the Hunger and Homeless Grant is to assist agencies in increasing the number of people served and/or improving the quality of services provided. This can be reflected through facility enhancements within areas directly serving those in need such as repair/replacement of HVAC, added shelter beds and increased refrigeration and storage; through activities that remove barriers for homeless youth in their educational pursuits such as program fees, transportation, and activity costs; and through the funding of hotel vouchers, street outreach supplies, and funding towards securing identification. Eligibility Criteria Agencies serving Minnesotans experiencing food and or housing insecurity as the agency’s primary function. Agencies serving children and youth (up to 24) experiencing housing insecurity in Minnesota. Agencies must have 501(c)3 status OR be recognized as tax exempt by the IRS (i.e., schools, units of government or tribal governments) OR use a fiscal agent with 501(c)3 status. Agencies must have completed the grant closure form for previously awarded grants and returned any unused funds to OYH to follow OYH grant requirements.  Agency does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, disability, age (40 or older) or genetic information (including family medical history). For more information, visit OYH.

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation is seeking applications for its 2024 Open Grant Round. Donor Name: Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation State: Minnesota County: Dakota County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Washington County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/07/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Areas of Community Vitality The Foundation supports work that addresses at least one of six areas of community vitality. Data and the experience suggest that the following elements play key roles in community health and vitality. Community Connectedness Creating opportunities for equity in arts, civic dialogue, community problem solving as well as supporting natural and built spaces where people live, work and play While community connectedness can be fostered in many ways, the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation is prioritizing three broad strategies: arts and culture, civic engagement and environmental justice. The Foundation shares Grantmakers in the Arts’ view that “[a]ll peoples, their cultures, and their art contribute to the meaning and understanding of the humanity and should be honored and celebrated.” Priority will be given to arts and culture organizations that seek to amplify narratives and voices across BIPOC communities and other communities experiencing marginalization (e.g., people with disabilities, low-income communities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, formerly incarcerated people, etc.) through the arts. The civic engagement priorities include work designed to build the capacity and power of marginalized community members through organizing and training. The goals for this work should be focused on advancing equity. The Foundation’s environmental justice priorities include work that contributes to an intergenerational, multi-racial movement that promotes a safe, clean community and workplace environment. The Foundation also seeks to aid East Metro communities to build and strengthen enduring community connections between people, to heal and revitalize the community while restoring natural spaces, and to encourage stewardship of natural resources through education programs. Economic Opportunity and Security Strengthening support for low-income individuals and families through community development, workforce education and training and creating sustainable employment pathways The Foundation seeks to invest and partner in solutions informed and formed by the people facing the highest barriers to wealth creation, economic security and family-sustaining career pathways. In the East Metro, this includes BIPOC, women, veterans, young people, people with disabilities, formerly incarcerated people and LGBTQ+ people. Specific priorities for wealth creation include strengthening the entrepreneur ecosystem, increasing local ownership of businesses and homes, and expanding access to culturally appropriate services. Regarding economic security, the Foundation recognizes the importance of anchor institutions embedded at the neighborhood level. For workforce development, they will prioritize employment pathways that meet the needs of individuals and employers alike. Education Exploring high-quality educational opportunities for everyone, from cradle to career, and more equitable access for racial and cultural communities The Foundation recognizes how important it is for students and young people to feel cared for, protected, valued and seen after a difficult period in their learning and growth. This is complex and urgent work, and the Foundation will prioritize organizations that blend academic, social and emotional supports for young people most impacted by educational inequity. The Foundation will also support the policy change and other systems change efforts of organizations working toward ensuring a robust early childhood system that gives children and families access to high-quality early care and education programs. Health Increasing health equity through quality, affordable health services, particularly for low-income, uninsured and under-insured individuals The Foundation continues to prioritize health organizations that focus on health equity and increasing access to affordable, culturally relevant health services. The Foundation hopes to better align its health grants to be inclusive of programs and organizations that serve low-income families and provide free or affordable, culturally relevant services and holistic care. Given the increase in severity, cost of and demand for mental health services, urgent care and/or crisis prevention, access to reproductive health care, trauma-informed health care, and free or reduced services for uninsured or underinsured communities, the Foundation will prioritize these programs and organizations to continue to serve the most vulnerable and marginalized communities. Housing and Transportation Strengthening the region through affordable, quality housing, addressing homelessness and investing in equitable transportation options and benefits The Foundation embraces the vision for housing justice articulated by the Minnesota Interagency Council on Homelessness. The Foundation will prioritize work that ensures the most marginalized people experiencing housing instability and homelessness are able to access housing that is “safe, decent, affordable,” and “free of prejudice” while also receiving the additional supports and services they need. Work within the transportation sector that explicitly addresses intersections of racial justice, climate justice, economic opportunity and health equity will also be prioritized. Human Services and Family Support Meeting basic needs for individuals and families, helping them be safe, stable and independent The Foundation will prioritize grants that assist residents in navigating life transitions, find safety and stability, and promote independence. In addition to supporting work that centers the voices of the people most impacted by an organization’s work, special priority will be given to disability support services, child welfare support services, family and parent support services, food relief and assistance, older adult services, immigration and legal services, and re-entry supports for formerly incarcerated people. Types of Grants The current grant opportunity includes funding for general operating support for the whole organization and capital support. General Operating Grants These grants provide flexible funding for nonprofits. To be eligible for general operating support, organizations must primarily serve the East Metro area with 50% or more of all services provided by the entire organization benefiting East Metro (Washington, Dakota and Ramsey counties) residents. Capital Grants These grants are designed to support your organization’s investment in buildings, facilities and equipment. Foundation investments are typically limited to buildings owned by nonprofits or held by long-term lease agreement. These grants are generally paid over multiple years. Capital projects must be located in the East Metro AND 50% or more of all services provided by the entire organization are benefiting East Metro residents. They will consider capital grants for projects located in Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties for: Renovations/repairs Land acquisition Construction costs Technology hardware and software Equipment Furniture Appliances. Geographic Areas The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation is proud to serve and fund Saint Paul’s East Metro region, which is defined as Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties. Eligibility Criteria  Grants can be made to 501(c)3 organizations, education or governmental units and religious institutions. Grants can also be made to groups working through an eligible fiscal sponsor. While an organization may be eligible to apply, attention and preference will be given to organizations: Prioritizing those experiencing the most marginalization, especially due to race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, age, ability, immigration status, etc. Establishing a clear connection to the Informs, Forms, Benefits framework, which states that those experiencing barriers should not only benefit from the work they support but inform, form, and lead it as well. Ineligibility  The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation will not consider grant requests for support of: Sectarian religious programs or organizations Work by an individual Capital projects located outside Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties Program/project specific requests. For more information, visit Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Mardag Foundation Grant Program. Donor Name: Mardag Foundation State: Minnesota County: Dakota County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Washington County (MN) Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) Details: Mardag Foundation believes that the community should not only benefit from the work, but inform and form it as well. Creating solutions to today’s issues requires a collaborative approach. The work is also rooted in a commitment to racial equity. Funding Priorities The Mardag Foundation has three focus areas and will consider proposals that address one or more of the following: Improving the lives of low-income Children, Youth and Families that lack access to critical opportunities and resources that they need Mardag Foundation seeks to support organizations focused on eliminating barriers and increasing access to equitable opportunities for children, youth and families.  Priority will be given to organizations working with marginalized communities (especially Black, Indigenous and communities of color) at the intersections of education, basic needs, mental health, access to healthcare, pathways to employment, and stable and affordable housing. Supporting older adults across Minnesota who lack access or have barriers to critical opportunities to thrive and create community connections Mardag Foundation supports organizations directly serving low-income older adults who may also be experiencing other forms of marginality (e.g., Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, etc.). Priorities include meeting basic needs, improving the well-being and quality of caregiving, addressing isolation and mental health issues, services to help older Minnesotans age in place and/or in safe and stable housing, and intergenerational programming. Building capacity to improve community vitality through Arts & Culture Mardag Foundation shares Grantmakers in the Arts’ view that “all peoples, their cultures, and their art contribute to the meaning and understanding of the humanity and should be honored and celebrated.” Priority will be given to arts and culture organizations that seek to amplify narratives and voices across BIPOC communities and other communities experiencing marginalization (e.g., older adults, people with disabilities, low-income children/youth/families, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, etc.) through the arts. Types of Grants The Foundation will consider grant applications for: General Operating Support These grants provide flexible funding for nonprofits in which at least 50% of the organization’s services benefit residents in the East Metro and/or Greater Minnesota. Any organization meeting this threshold is eligible for general operating support (including organizations that have never previously received support from Mardag Foundation). Capital Projects Capital projects must be located in Greater Minnesota or the East Metro AND 50% or more of all services provided by the entire organization must benefit Greater Minnesota and/or East Metro (Washington, Dakota and Ramsey counties) residents. Grants are designed to support investment in buildings, facilities and equipment. Foundation investments are typically limited to buildings owned by nonprofits or held by long-term lease agreement. These grants are generally paid over multiple years. Geographic Areas  The Mardag Foundation makes grants to nonprofit organizations and public entities located within and serving residents of Minnesota. The geographic focus of our grantmaking is the East Metro area of Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties, as well as Greater Minnesota. Eligibility Criteria  Grants can be made to 501(c)3 organizations, education or governmental units and religious institutions. While an organization may be eligible to apply, attention and preference will be given to organizations: Prioritizing people experiencing the most marginalization, especially due to race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, age, ability, immigration status, etc. Where work is informed, formed and led by the people most impacted by it. Ineligibility The Foundation will not consider grant applications for: Organizations using fiscal sponsors Organizations exclusively serving Minneapolis and the surrounding West Metro area Scholarships and grants to individuals Sectarian religious programs or organizations Federated campaigns Events and conferences Capital campaigns of private secondary schools Capital and endowment campaigns of private colleges and universities Program/project specific requests For more information, visit Mardag Foundation.

This funding opportunity supports K-12 schools in nine Minnesota counties to collaborate with professional artists on various arts projects, promoting access to the arts for historically marginalized communities.

The Arts and Cultural Heritage (ACH) program provides funding for arts organizations directly engaged in the creation of art, the production of artistic performances, or the sponsorship of quality arts activities in the local communities. Donor Name: Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council State: Minnesota County: Blue Earth County (MN), Brown County (MN), Faribault County (MN), LeSueur County (MN), Martin County (MN), Nicollet County (MN), Sibley County (MN), Waseca County (MN), Watonwan County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:  08/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: This program is made possible by the Arts and Culture Heritage Fund, created by the people of Minnesota to support the arts and preserve the heritage. The Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment funds this program, through the Minnesota State Legislature. Disciplines may include dance, literature, media arts, music, theater, visual art, folk and traditional art. A variety of activities including art and music festivals, community choirs, dance performances, literary readings, instrumental and vocal music concerts, public art projects, theater productions, visual art classes and exhibitions are eligible. The organization should describe their arts programming and request funds for those activities in the expense categories listed on the application budget. Funds may be used for on-going programs, in-person or virtual, and groups are encouraged to offer new and different activities with the grant funds or enhance their events. Prairie Lakes values an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community and this is reflected in the policies, programs, and the community they serve. They are committed to countering systemic inequities that exclude individuals and communities from access to the arts based on race, gender, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, class, age, and geography. This may include historically marginalized and underserved groups such as: Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), People with Disabilities, LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, etc.), and Senior Citizens. Types of Grants ACH Arts Project Grant. Arts Programming and Access – maximum request $9,000. Funds can be used for in-person or virtual Arts programming, activities, and events. Also, equipment that improves the artistic capabilities of the organization including sound equipment, lights, risers, office equipment, computer, monitor, software, etc. is fundable. ACH Arts and Music Festival Grant. Arts Programming – maximum request $6,000. A celebration of art and culture should include: Has a significant focus on the arts. Preferably provides a showcase of Minnesota artists. Contains many activities consolidated into a condensed time period. Has several different, yet related, arts activities happening simultaneously. Is open, inviting, and available to a diverse audience. ACH Arts Education Grant. Maximum request $6,000. Public Schools. This is available to all public or private non-parochial schools (K-12) in the nine-county area. The focus is to provide educational partnerships between local and regional professional artists, arts, organizations, and schools. To enhance school arts curriculum by providing artist residencies, live arts performances, mini-workshops, and arts related field trips. To enhance programs and curriculum design through visits to professional artists’ studios, performances by professional theatre, dance or musical groups, readings by writers, visits to art galleries, exhibitions, and other locations pertinent to the creation and exhibition of art. To collaborate with arts organizations in the region to perform in their school and/or community. Grant Period All projects should be completed within one year. Eligibility Criteria The applicant organization must have an address and provide arts programming within the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council region. This includes the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca, and Watonwan. Non-profit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) arts organizations, non-profit community groups, schools, public organizations or units of governments that produce or sponsor arts activities within the region are eligible. An arts group located within the region, formed as a limited liability company (LLC) with a not-for-profit intent may be eligible to apply if they are using a fiscal sponsor. For more information, visit Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council.

The Medica Foundation is seeking applications for its Rural Health Grants to fund nonprofit, community-led solutions that address health needs and social determinants of health in rural communities. Donor Name: Medica Foundation State: Minnesota County: Anoka County (MN), Carver County (MN), Dakota County (MN), Hennepin County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Scott County (MN), Washington County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Medica Foundation proposals address: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities Children and youth Families Immigrants and refugees LGBTQ+ communities Seniors Survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence Veterans Funding Areas Behavioral Health Culturally-focused care Domestic violence and sexual assault services and prevention Early childhood health Oral health Primary care for underserved communities Senior care Sexual health Transportation  Funding Information Individual grants may be awarded up to $10,000. Eligibility Criteria Rural Health grant recipients are eligible to submit an application for funding in consecutive years. Funding is limited to organizations located and based outside of the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area in Minnesota, where fundraising is conducted on a solely local level and not supported by a main office elsewhere. Organizations seeking to do work within the service area but do not have a physical presence in Greater Minnesota are ineligible. Funding requests for events, camps, sponsorships and seminars are ineligible. For more information, visit Medica Foundation.

The Artist in Residence (AIR) program provides funds of up to $3,500 to schools and nonprofit organizations in support of activities directed by, or conducted in cooperation with, an artist who engages students and enables learning through the creative process. Donor Name: Central MN Arts Board State: Minnesota County: Benton County (MN), Sherburne County (MN), Stearns County (MN), Wright County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: More than 10 Years Details: Resident artists must be chosen based on their ability to enhance programs and curriculum. An ideal residency is composed of a balance between demonstration and hands-on activity. Artists-in-Residence enrich student experiences by sharing and demonstrating a deep understanding of their art form. Program Outcomes Regional residents learn new arts skills & techniques. Regional residents gain awareness and appreciation for a variety of artistic disciplines and mediums. Regional artists build their capacity through professional development. Proposals to the Artist in Residence program must contain the following components: Arts Learning activities conducted with a core group A Community Component that invites and informs the community surrounding the school or organization to learn about or participate in residency activities A Staff In-Service component that builds staff capacity and/or supports residency activities Eligibility Criteria Applicants must serve Region 7W residents and be located within the Minnesota counties of Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, or Wright. Nonprofit 501(c) (3) organizations Community groups WITH nonprofit fiscal sponsorship Public Schools Local government entities (city, township and county) For more information, visit Central MN Arts Board.

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation seeks applications which foster communities to build inclusive, welcoming entrepreneurial environments to advance equitable entrepreneurship opportunities in the lives of all people. Donor Name: Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Grant Duration: 2 Years Details: The purpose of this grant program is to support IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations, units/agencies of government or public institution organizations which are providing direct resources and services to start and expand business opportunities within diverse and/or traditionally underserved populations in southern Minnesota. Examples of initiatives may include the creation of an entrepreneurial education program for diverse and/or traditionally underserved populations, organized community dialogue to build inclusivity around entrepreneurship, expanded access to business resources for all community members; the development of systems to advance equitable entrepreneurial activity and reduce the wealth gap among entrepreneurs of diverse and/or traditionally underserved populations. Applications should effectively illustrate the following Creates economic opportunity and advances economic prosperity for racially diverse populations of potential/existing entrepreneurs. Focuses on the well-being of potential/existing BIPOC entrepreneurs who have experienced inequities. Removes community or systemic barriers to increase access to skills, knowledge, or talents for potential/existing BIPOC entrepreneurs. Demonstrates that initiatives can be sustained or grow beyond the initial funding. Funding Information Up to $10,000 is available to qualified and approved applicants, and recipients will have 18 months to implement their work.  Grant Guidelines  Proposals must be submitted by an IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organization, a unit/agency of government or a public institution.  Informal and grassroots organizations are eligible to apply but will be required to have an eligible fiscal host.  Proposals must demonstrate a direct benefit to SMIF’s 20-county region.  10% cash match is required An interim progress report and final written report will be required by all grant recipients Exclusion Ineligible organizations or activities include: Individuals, businesses, or other for-profit organizations General operating expenses (including staff funding) and expenses not directly related to the project/program Capital funding, real estate investments, fixed assets, equipment, capital campaigns or endowments Project/program expenses incurred prior to application Projects/programs in progress prior to application or completed (excludes planning phase) Funds for re-granting or to establish loan pools Research projects or school-related internships Strategic plans, feasibility studies or project planning without implementation and completion within the 12-month timeframe Participant stipends (scholarships for participant fees may be considered) Organizations that have an open Inclusive & Equitable Communities Grant (cannot close grant prior to project end date listed in contract). For more information, visit SMIF.

The Sauer Family Foundation offers grants in Minnesota, prioritizing seven counties, to support initiatives that enhance child safety, reduce toxic stress, promote emotional safety and educational success, and foster a diverse workforce in child welfare, children's mental health, and education sectors.

The Ciresi Walburn Foundation seeks to partner with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, higher education institutions and K-12 schools that support youth and families in Minnesota. Donor Name: Ciresi Walburn Foundation State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/12/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The mission of the Ciresi Walburn Foundation is to serve as a catalyst for creative, innovative, and societal-changing programs and policies to promote education and equitable opportunities for all of Minnesota’s children and youth. Key Priorities Eliminate the misconception that Minnesota schools provide a quality education for all the children.  Expand the number and capacity of high-performing schools and educational organizations throughout Minnesota serving students of color and low-income students.  Support parent and family engagement in schools and their demands for access to high-performing schools for all students.  Invest in strategies to diversify Minnesota’s educator workforce and equip teachers with the cultural intelligence and skills needed to support and educate all students.  Expand access to science-based literacy instruction; high-quality early childhood learning opportunities; equitable pathways to in-demand careers; and scalable, high-quality tutoring programs.  Eligibility Criteria  To be eligible, an organization must be tax-exempt or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of a tax-exempt nonprofit. The Foundation does not fund individuals, endowments, political organizations, or political lobbying. For more information, visit Ciresi Walburn Foundation.

The Mayer Economic Development Authority (EDA) Local Business Improvement Grant Program is designed to stimulate private investment in high-quality improvements that contribute to the overall strength and community vitality of local business economy. Donor Name: Mayer Economic Development Authority State: Minnesota City: Mayer Type of Grant: Grant | Matching Grants Deadline: 06/17/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Mayer EDA establishes funding to assist private business owners in their efforts to make broad improvements to enhance the economic prosperity of the community. Funding Information Program grants are up to a $10,000 match. A minimum of 1:1 match for funding is required. An applicant may only be awarded one grant per property per 12-month period. Eligibility Criteria Grants will be made available to owners or tenants of a commercial property located within the corporate limits of the City of Mayer, Minnesota. The business must be current on all applicable taxes, licenses, permits, and in good standing with the State of Minnesota. The business must be current on their utility account with the City of Mayer. Ineligible Applicants Home based or primarily residential businesses. Churches. Schools or other similar institutions. For more information, visit EDA.

The Minneapolis Foundation announces a call for proposals from nonprofits, schools, and school districts seeking grants for work that advances equity and supports youth voice in local K-12 schools. Donor Name: Minneapolis Foundation State: Minnesota City: Selected Cities Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/21/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Less than 1 Year Details: The Reimagine Education grants prioritize efforts to: Elevate student and community voices and power to build bridges between schools, families, and communities and improve school climates and academic outcomes. Provide opportunities for educators to build their understanding of race and equity and implement strategies that create culturally responsive and inclusive schools. Advocate for policies at the school, local, and state level to address systemic barriers to racial equity in Minnesota’s education system. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of  the types of work foundation plans to support: Student leadership and power building Recruitment and retention of diverse educators with equity-focused mindsets Principal and teacher leadership and collaboration Development of equity and climate frameworks Local or state policy advocacy Professional development and training to support teachers and school leaders to implement evidence-based literacy instruction Development and implementation of strategies to address student mental health challenges and improve school climate and culture Efforts to engage students and their families in district and school-level decision-making. Funding Information Grants will range from $10,000 to $75,000, with an average award of $25,000 to $40,000. Grant Period The grant period is September 2, 2024, to June 13, 2025. Eligibility Criteria  Funding will be awarded to public schools or school districts and 501(c)(3) nonprofits that organize students, parents, and community members; engage in education policy advocacy to advance equity and eliminate disparities; and help educators collaborate to build their understanding of race, equity, and culture, and to create positive school climates. Foundation will prioritize proposals that impact Minneapolis; however, they will consider organizations in inner-ring suburbs (Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Robbinsdale, St. Louis Park, etc.). For more information, visit Minneapolis Foundation.

The Initiative Foundation provides grants to nonprofits and local government units for program or capacity-building support; projects that advance diversity, equity and inclusion; and strategies to address workforce shortages. Donor Name: Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/09/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Proposals that focus on at least one of the following areas will be given priority consideration: Capacity-building support for nonprofits, with priority to those addressing urgent needs and/or the needs of low-income communities. This includes support for business planning, fund development, training, or pilot programming. Cost share for projects intended to create behavioral change associated with advancing diversity, equity and inclusion. Advancement of community-based strategies to address regional workforce shortages in sectors which lead to family-sustaining wages. Support for local and regional community and economic development entities advancing early-stage feasibility or pilot projects. Funding Information Grants seldom exceed $7,500 and are not intended to provide ongoing support. Eligibility Criteria  Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, school districts, or local units of government that serve Benton, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, and/or Wright counties, and/or the Native nations of the Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Bands of Ojibwe within the boundaries of the 14-county region served by the Initiative Foundation. Ineligible Expenses  Funding requests from outside the Initiative Foundation’s geographic service area will not be considered. Individuals are not eligible to apply for grant funding. The following expenses are ineligible and will NOT be considered for funding: Grants or reimbursements to individuals and businesses. Expenses incurred prior to the receipt of a grant award. Capital expenses (e.g., buildings, equipment, vehicles, etc.). Programs or projects that DO NOT directly benefit residents in the Initiative Foundation’s 14-county service area. Replacement of or substitution for government funding. Religious activities. Lobbying or campaigning for a candidate, issue or referendum vote. Development or purchase of school curriculum or support for school athletic programs. Out-of-state travel. Healthcare, arts and historic preservation are not focus areas for the Initiative Foundation’s discretionary grants. Potential applicants are encouraged to speak with staff before beginning an application associated with one of these areas. For more information, visit Initiative Foundation.

The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota has launched the Innovators Program. Donor Name: Women’s Foundation of Minnesota State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota (WFM) believes in the leadership and ideas of young women and gender-expansive leaders in state. Through the Innovators program, WFM provides microgrants of $3,000 directly to young women and gender-expansive people (ages 16-24) to fuel their ideas and support their development as leaders with microgrants, cohort-based learning, and individual leadership coaching. Innovators leadership, ideas, and solutions advance key recommendations in the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota’s (YWI MN) Blueprint for Action. Grants through the Innovators program fund projects that advance gender and racial equity and justice, led by visionary leaders who are leading within their communities from the intersections of their identities and experiences. Innovators meet as a cohort in-person for technical support and leadership development.  Focus Areas GOAL 1: Build Pathways to Economic Opportunity. GOAL 2: Improve Safety and Well-being. GOAL 3: Promote Young Women’s Leadership. Project Period The funds must be used within 12 months. Funds can be used Think creatively: How can this microgrant uniquely help move your leadership and ideas forward? How can it help you be more effective in the impact you want to make? Example projects could be executed in the following ways: Start or continue a social change initiative. Design and pursue a personal learning plan. Attend a conference and share learnings with community for impact. Organize an event for impact. Supply resources to organize people for advocacy. Research Travel as part of greater learning and share in Minnesota for impact. Participation Leadership Convenings & Coaching – WFMN will engage young women in mandatory online and/or in-person convenings for leadership development, advocacy, and building community. The convenings will give young women an opportunity to support, develop, and scale their leadership and ideas. This leadership development includes direct professional coaching to support Innovators in their grant-funded projects and to deepen their leadership for the long term. Eligibility Criteria The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota is accepting applications from eligible applicants in the state of Minnesota. Eligible candidates: Must be 16-24 years old at the date of program kickoff. Identify as a young woman and/or gender-expansive youth. The definition of a young woman is anyone who identifies as a woman. The program is inclusive of transgender, gender nonconforming, gender nonbinary, and all gender-expansive people who experience gender-based structural harm. Applicants must reside in the state of Minnesota throughout the grant period. Priority given to young women and gender-expansive leaders who identify with at least one of the priority communities of the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota: Black/African American, African Immigrant, American Indian, Hispanic/Latina, Asian/Pacific Islander, LGBTQ+, Disabilities, Greater/Rural Minnesota. Citizenship is not required For more information, visit WFMN.

The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) will administer the PROMISE Act Grant program for small businesses in southwest Minnesota located within its service area. Donor Name: Southwest Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 06/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Competitive from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) to organizations that have been adversely affected by lack of access to capital, loss of population or an aging population, structural racial discrimination, civil unrest, and/or lack of regional economic diversification. The most competitive applicants have experienced economic hardship and did not receive significant COVID-19 relief funding of more than $10,000 from the State of Minnesota. Priority Criteria Business either did not receive pandemic relief grants from the State of Minnesota, or received $10,000 or less in the following pandemic relief grants from the State of Minnesota:  Minnesota Small Business Loan Guarantee  Minnesota Small Business Relief Grants Minnesota Main Street COVID-19 Relief Grants  Minnesota Business Relief Payments AND/OR  Experienced 10% or greater decrease in gross revenue, or any reduction in net income, in 2022 as compared to 2021. Tax documents for 2022 and 2021 will need to be uploaded to verify. If you were not in business in 2021 but were in 2022, you can still apply. Funding Information Competitive grants range between $10,000 to $50,000. Eligiblity Criteria Business must have a primary business operating within the SWIF’s service area which includes the counties of Big Stone, Chippewa, Cottonwood, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, McLeod, Meeker, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Swift and Yellow Medicine; and Pezihutazizi Oyate (Upper Sioux Community) and Cansayapi Oyate (Lower Sioux Indian Community).  Home based businesses are eligible to apply, so long as at least 50% of the employees are based in Minnesota.  Sole proprietors are also eligible to apply but will be required to demonstrate business income sources separately from other sources of income.  Businesses not operating within the SWIF region should review the DEED website to determine which organization to apply through, as this is a statewide program with different organizations administering in various regions.  Business owner(s) and any directors or officers have not been convicted of a crime related to any state law.  Business is in good standing with the Department of Revenue.  Businesses with $750,00 or less in gross revenue (based on 2021 and 2022 taxes). Have a minimum of $10,000 in revenue in 2022.  Businesses must be registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State, if required by Minnesota State Law. Sole proprietors operating their business under their own name do not need to be registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State.  Nonprofits operating like a for-profit business, earning 30% or more of revenue on an ongoing basis through non-tax-deductible sales or dues in a fee-for-service model similar to for-profit businesses.  Definition of “business-like” revenue that counts toward meeting the 30% threshold includes: program service revenue, membership dues, unrelated or other business income. Revenue that does not count towards meeting the 30% revenue includes: contributions, gifts or grants; fundraising events; asset sales; investment income.  Business is operating as of the application date and can produce documents of ongoing operations. This can include recent invoices, payroll records, current lease or other business activity For more information, visit SWIF.

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation primarily awards grants within the areas of arts and culture, education, health and human services in the vibrant Twin Cities of Minnesota. Donor Name: James B. Linsmayer Foundation State: County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Program Areas Arts, culture, and humanities Education Health Human services Requirements To be eligible, organizations must qualify as exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications must be submitted through the online grant application form or alternative accessible application designed for assistive technology users. Limitations Although the Foundation will consider assisting start-up organizations, funding may not be requested for organizational or start-up expenses. For more information, visit Wells Fargo.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for large-scale public art projects in southwest Minnesota, aimed at organizations, cities, and tribal governments that will create a lasting arts legacy in the region.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations and local government units in Southwest Minnesota to purchase equipment and make facility improvements that enhance their ability to support community arts initiatives.

The Art Project grant program provides nonprofit organizations with funding to stimulate and encourage the creation, performance, and appreciation of the arts in the region. Donor Name: Southwest Minnesota Arts Council State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Art Projects may include, but are not limited to: Music, dance, and theater productions by community groups Productions by professionals brought into the community Visual art exhibits Readings by authors Arts classes for community members of all ages (excluding projects in schools) Public art Arts festivals. Funding Information Art Project grants are available for up to $7,000. Grant Period July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025. Who Can Apply? Geographic Areas  Applicant organizations must be located within the SW MN Arts Council service region, consisting of eighteen counties (Big Stone, Chippewa, Cottonwood, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, McLeod, Meeker, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Swift, and Yellow Medicine counties) and two tribal nations (Pezihutazizi/Upper Sioux Community, Cansayapi/Lower Sioux Community). They acknowledge that the Southwest Minnesota region occupies the traditional, ancestral, and contemporary lands of the Dakota people.  Types of Organizations  The Art Project grant program is open to nonprofit organizations as described in Section 501 (c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code with Articles of Incorporation on file with the State of Minnesota or official units of city, county, or state government of the State of Minnesota. Public schools may apply if they have a community project. (Otherwise, public schools should see the Arts in the Schools grants.)  Fiscal Sponsors  If your organization is not yet a registered nonprofit, you may apply using a fiscal sponsor. Some examples of organizations in this situation include one that has just recently been formed, with only a few board members and a couple of activities completed so far. Or, an organization may have been in existence for years, but the scale of its activities and capacity of its volunteers haven’t warranted filing for nonprofit status.  The fiscal sponsor organization must meet the requirements listed above under the types of eligible organizations. A signed agreement outlining the relationship between the applicant and the fiscal sponsor must be submitted with the application. A fiscal sponsor, if used, must sign the application and, if funded, sign the grant contract. The fiscal sponsor is legally responsible for the proper management of grant funds and for the completion of the project. For more information, visit SMAC.