The Hormel Foundation, founded in 1941, is committed to supporting nonprofit organizations that contribute to the charitable, educational, and scientific welfare of the Austin, Minnesota area. With a focus on its local community, the Foundation directs its assets towards initiatives that provide tangible benefits to the residents of Austin and Mower County. It does not fund individuals or projects outside its geographic scope, underscoring its dedication to local impact.
To be eligible for a grant from The Hormel Foundation, applicants must be tax-exempt under IRS guidelines and be operated for charitable, educational, or scientific purposes. Furthermore, organizations must either be located in or have a direct effect on the Austin, Minnesota area. Individuals are not eligible to apply, and grants are not awarded to projects that seek to influence legislation or promote particular causes in a legislative context.
The application process for the 2026 funding cycle opens on June 1, 2025, and closes on August 22, 2025, at noon. Applicants are required to submit a comprehensive set of materials through an online portal. These materials include a project description, organizational background, financial documents such as the latest IRS ruling, Form 990, and audited financial statements, as well as detailed project budgets and funding sources.
The application checklist also includes the organization's Federal Tax ID, current board member list, the project's expected completion date, and a description of similar community programs. Additionally, a Grant Use Report summarizing outcomes must be submitted within 90 days following the end of the funded period.
The Foundation prefers to partner with other donors and values collaboration in funding efforts. It does not support lobbying or advocacy-related projects. All applicants must register and complete the online application via the Foundation’s website. Submission of the application also grants consent for SMS communication from the Foundation regarding the grant process.
For further inquiries, organizations can contact The Hormel Foundation at 329 North Main Street, Suite 102L, Austin, MN 55912. The phone number is 507.437.9800, the fax number is 507.396.2705, and the contact email is info@thehormelfoundation.com.
