Management Improvement Fund

The Management Improvement Fund is a specialized funding program operated by the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation. Since its inception in 1991, the Fund has disbursed $7 million to over 470 nonprofit organizations across Minnesota. Its central aim is to bolster the internal operations and organizational capacity of small to midsize nonprofit entities. Emphasizing collaboration, community engagement, and racial equity, the Fund provides crucial support for nonprofits committed to serving low-income populations and communities of color throughout the state. The grant offers up to $15,000 per award for technical assistance and consultation services that directly strengthen nonprofit management. Supported activities include strategic planning, organizational restructuring, board governance, HR assessments, technology and marketing evaluations, financial planning, and leadership development. Specific consideration is given to innovative projects that promote collaboration and better service delivery. For BIPOC-led organizations, additional funding supports leadership training and executive coaching. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or those with a fiscal sponsor, with a primary service focus on low-income individuals and an annual operating budget not exceeding $5 million. Priority is given to new or emerging BIPOC-led organizations and those that serve Asian American/Pacific Islander, Indigenous, Latinx, and Black communities. Applicants from Greater Minnesota and the West Metro area (Anoka, Hennepin, Carver, and Scott counties) are required to contact the Fund team before applying. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with quarterly review deadlines on February 19, May 8, August 7, and November 13 for 2025. Interested applicants must provide a written proposal or bid from their selected consultant and are encouraged to seek consultants via board networks or platforms like Nexus Community Partners or the Minnesota Council of Nonprofits. Limited funds may also cover supplementary expenses such as stipends, interpreters, or childcare. Before submission, applicants are encouraged to email the Fund at [email protected] to confirm fit. Notably, the Fund will not consider applications from organizations that are not nonprofits, serve solely the West Metro region, or promote sectarian religious activities. While no final report is required post-grant, recipients are invited to participate in convenings to reflect and share insights. The Foundation's contact details are: 370 Wabasha Street North, Suite 300, Saint Paul, MN 55102, phone 651.224.5463, email [email protected].