Central Minnesota “Difference Maker” Grants

The Central Minnesota Community Foundation is offering the “Difference Maker” Grants to support initiatives that make a meaningful and transformative impact in addressing homelessness and its prevention in Central Minnesota. The foundation is known for its commitment to fostering philanthropy and community development across Benton, Stearns, and Sherburne counties. Through this grant program, it aims to empower organizations that provide innovative and sustainable solutions to the challenges posed by homelessness in the region. This grant opportunity prioritizes projects that strengthen homelessness supports and prevention services. Funded programs should not only address immediate needs but also contribute to long-term strategies that alleviate systemic causes of homelessness. The foundation emphasizes the importance of equity and inclusion, favoring proposals that address community disparities, build social capital across diverse populations, and promote culturally competent practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities that directly serve residents in the specified three-county region. Funding amounts range from $10,000 to $30,000, with no indication of matching requirements. The foundation does not support individuals, political or religious activities, annual fundraising events, completed projects, or travel/conference-focused proposals. Additionally, multi-year funding and endowments are ineligible. The application process opens on February 1 and closes on March 31 at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time. Applications must be submitted via the CommunityGiving Grant Management System. Interested applicants are encouraged to consult with foundation staff prior to submission for guidance on eligibility or proposal development. Once submitted, applications are reviewed by a Grant Advisory Committee, with final decisions made by the Board of Directors within 90 days after the deadline. All communication, including notifications and required documentation such as the signed Grant Agreement and final or progress reports, will occur through the foundation’s grant portal. Funds will be disbursed electronically upon execution of the Grant Agreement. This grant program is issued on a recurring annual basis, with the next anticipated cycle beginning in February of the following year.

Engage with the foundation early to confirm eligibility and get feedback; address equity and disparities; propose sustainable and inspiring community solutions.