Community Grant Program

The City of Mankato Community Grant Program provides funding opportunities to support initiatives that enhance the city's cultural vibrancy, visual appeal, and social infrastructure. This grant program is administered directly by the City of Mankato and is designed for both individual residents and not-for-profit organizations based in the city. Through three primary funding categories—Community Performing Arts and Music, Community Beautification and Public Art, and Community Social Services—the program fosters projects that enrich public life and improve the quality of services and amenities available to residents. The Community Performing Arts and Music category supports public performances in various musical and performing art genres, aiming to elevate the cultural experiences within Mankato. Projects under Community Beautification and Public Art focus on improving and beautifying public spaces, reinforcing civic pride, and enhancing the visual landscape of the city. Community Social Services projects aim to improve the independence and quality of life of service recipients, with a focus on under-represented and underserved populations. All applications are expected to align with the City of Mankato's Strategic Plan or other official planning documents; in the absence of direct alignment, applicants must demonstrate how their project enhances the quality of life for residents. The grant offers funding tiers based on the applicant type: individuals and small organizations with less than $50,000 in prior year operating income may apply for up to $2,500, while larger organizations may request up to $5,000. A strict 3:1 funding ratio is required, meaning grant funds must not exceed 25% of the total project budget. Applicants must show proof of other revenue or matching contributions, either through other funding sources or in-kind support. Projects must take place within the 2026 calendar year, and grantees are required to submit a final report by December 31, 2026, to remain eligible for future grant cycles. To apply, individuals and organizations must submit a complete application package, including a signed statement of assurances, project narrative, budget, demographic information, and—if applicable—proof of not-for-profit status. Eligible proof includes a 501(c)(3) certificate, a current annual report to the Secretary of State, or related documentation. Applications may be submitted by email or postal mail and must be received no later than 4:30 p.m. on February 6, 2026. Applications that are incomplete, late, or fail to meet matching requirements will be disqualified. Applications are reviewed by a grant panel composed of at least three City Council members and three city staff, with final funding determinations made by the full City Council. Review criteria include project need and justification, organizational capacity, community involvement, and evidence of community support. Collaboration with other organizations or individuals is encouraged, and projects involving public art must obtain prior approval from the Independent Arts Council. Successful applicants will receive 100% of their grant award within 30 days of City Council approval. All grantees must credit the City of Mankato Community Grant Program in public-facing materials. Failure to provide proper attribution may affect future eligibility. Notifications will be sent between March 10–13, 2026, following formal approval during the March 9 City Council meeting.

Highlight match funding, align with City plans, emphasize underrepresented service and public benefit.