Minnesota Community Development Grants

This program provides financial assistance to small businesses and certain nonprofits in Minnesota that have experienced significant revenue declines due to economic hardships.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for health and wellness projects that benefit residents in Roseau County, Minnesota, focusing on areas such as cancer care, diabetes services, hospice projects, and assistance for families facing pregnancy or child loss.

This funding opportunity supports local communities in Northwest Minnesota by providing resources to enhance and expand quality child care services, benefiting public entities, tribal nations, community service agencies, and nonprofit organizations experienced in child care.

The Central Minnesota Community Foundation is offering a grant ranging from $3,000 to $15,000 to nonprofits, schools, or government entities that serve women and/or girls within a 30-mile radius of St. Cloud, focusing on programs that support girls aged 10-18, women in transition, and elder women, with an emphasis on promoting equality, success, health, economic self-sufficiency, and addressing unique aging issues.

This funding opportunity supports cultural and historical projects that commemorate the 50-year presence of Southeast Asians in Minnesota, aimed at organizations dedicated to preserving and sharing this significant community history.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in the Greater Itasca Area of Minnesota to help them address community needs and improve the quality of life through innovative projects and collaboration.

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.

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 Minnesota Department of Education makes this funding available to legally established public libraries and library cooperatives or consortia, libraries located in Minnesota’s public schools or public colleges and universities, and special libraries operated by a Minnesota registered 501 (c)(3) organizations for the purpose of helping to achieve Minnesota’s LSTA Five-Year Plan (2023-2027), Goals A, B, and C, in order to reduce barriers to access, promote equity, showcase libraries contributions to community, and empower Minnesota’s library workforce. Donor Name: Minnesota Department of Education State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:07/12/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: While LSTA funds are primarily intended to support new projects that can serve as models or pilots, applications for new phases of a project that is underway may be submitted. Libraries may also apply for funding of an ongoing project if it reaches new audiences, incorporates new methods or significantly expands the reach of the project. Goal C also addresses the state’s need to close racial and economic achievement gaps for all Minnesotans and supports the goals of the World’s Best Workforce. For the 2024 LSTA competitive grant opportunity, applicants will select one of the following LSTA sub-goals. Goal A: Building Coalitions to Increase Collective Impact Goal B: Partnering for Reimagined Access Goal C: Changing the Narrative to Showcase Libraries’ Contributions to Thriving Communities Funding Information This grant opportunity estimates that $400,000 is available. The minimum grant award is $10,000 and the maximum grant award may not exceed $75,000. Project Period The term of the grant period is anticipated to be from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025. Eligibility Criteria  Eligible applicants are limited to legally established public libraries and library cooperatives, libraries located in Minnesota’s public schools or public colleges and universities, and special libraries operated by Minnesota registered 501(c)(3) organizations. A Minnesota registered 501(c)(3) organization may serve as a fiscal agent for a public library. Applicants may submit more than one competitive application, although only one LSTA grant per applicant/beneficiary will be awarded. Partnerships and collaboration with community-based organizations are an LSTA program priority and encouraged but not required for this grant opportunity. If your project includes partners, you must submit a completed Project Partnership Agreement form for each partner identified in your application. For more information, visit MDE.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for assessing and revitalizing contaminated properties in Minnesota to promote community development and essential services while preventing gentrification.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) invites proposals for a community air monitoring pilot grant program, targeting neighborhood-scale air quality monitoring in the Twin Cities metro area. Eligible organizations, primarily community nonprofits and their partners, will develop a dense network of fixed and mobile air sensors. Priority will be given to projects in environmental justice communities with robust community engagement. The objectives include monitoring air quality, fostering community cooperation, and providing actionable air quality data to MPCA. The application deadline is 4:30 p.m. Central Time on June 28, 2024.

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is offering approximately $4.5 million in grants to support organics management projects aimed at reducing the amount of organic material sent to landfills or incinerators. This funding is intended for projects that enhance or establish collection, processing (through composting, anaerobic digestion, or feeding to animals), and education/outreach initiatives related to organics management. Eligible entities must serve or operate within Minnesota, and include not-for-profit organizations, businesses, institutions, political subdivisions (e.g., counties, cities), state agencies, and tribal governments. Applications are due by 4 p.m. Central Time on June 10, 2024.

Art Project Program Grant Application Program Overview: The Art Project program provides funding of up to $5,000 to support relevant, meaningful arts activities with value to the community your organization serves. Support may be used to create, perform, exhibit, or publish artistic works; or to present arts events by contracting the services of other organizations or individuals. Important Dates for FY24: Open: April 1, 2024 Deadline: Sunday, May 12, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. Project Start Date: July 1, 2024 Deadlines are firm, applicants are encouraged to finish in advance of the deadline. Assistance is available during normal business hours via email at [email protected] or [email protected]. Who Can Apply? Eligible applicants include: State-registered and federally recognized non-profit, tax-exempt organizations Accredited schools Tribal governments Units of government Eligibility Criteria: Organization must be primarily based (permanent address) in Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, or St. Louis County (outside Duluth) or of the four Tribal Nations within our region: Bois Forte, Fond du Lac, Grand Portage, or Leech Lake (within Itasca County) for at least six months. All Duluth organizations are eligible regardless of budget size. Organizations outside of Duluth with minimum prior year arts operating expenses of $40,000 are eligible. No outstanding or overdue final reports from past funding. Applicants may apply only once per grant round and cannot receive funding from the same grant program twice in a fiscal year. Fiscal sponsorship is allowed for groups without non-profit, tax-exempt status. What Can I Fund? Art supplies Volunteer and administrative costs Advertising, marketing, and promotional materials Equipment or technology purchases (integral to the artistic project, <25% of total request) How Do I Apply? Applications must be completed using the ARAC Grant Portal. Submissions in any other format will not be accepted. Instructions for navigating the online system can be found by clicking on the ‘Apply Now’ button on our website. Ensure your application includes all required materials. Contact Us: For assistance or inquiries, please contact us at [email protected] or [email protected] during normal business hours. Grant renewed every year.

This funding opportunity supports community-focused artistic projects, such as public art installations and workshops, aimed at enhancing cultural engagement in the region.

This grant provides financial support to non-profit arts organizations in the region to help cover their operational costs and fund public art projects, with a focus on sustaining artistic activities and community engagement.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for arts projects, including theatrical productions, folk artist sponsorships, and public art installations, aimed at non-profit organizations and government entities.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for non-profit arts organizations to carry out specific artistic projects, such as theatrical performances or cultural festivals, with a requirement for a cash match.

The Thief River Falls Area Community Fund is inviting applications for grants from nonprofit or public entities within the Thief River Falls School District area. Grants are intended for projects, programs, or activities that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors of the Thief River Falls area. Primary focus areas include youth engagement, social need, senior enrichment, and overall quality of life enhancement. Applications are open until May 1, 2024. The fund is a component of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, which serves 12 northwestern Minnesota counties. More information and application details can be found on their website.

The Rural and Underserved Clinical Rotations grant, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Sec 144.1505, aims to enhance health professional training sites, including those for physicians, physician assistants, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, dental therapists, and mental health professionals. This program supports the expansion of existing clinical training programs to include rural and underserved rotations or specialized training tracks, focusing on primary care settings in rural communities. This expansion is intended to strengthen the healthcare workforce and improve access to healthcare in these communities.

The "2024 Workplace Safety Grants for Health Care Entities" program is designed to enhance safety in healthcare environments through grants supporting projects focused on training staff in de-escalation and positive support services and increasing safety measures. Authorized by 2023 Session Law, Chapter 70, Article 4, Section 109, it aims for long-term improvements in safety and stability for both staff and patients. The program will distribute funds competitively, with anticipated multiple funding cycles depending on fund availability. The total program funding allocated is $4,400,000, with this cycle's estimated amount at $1,500,000 aimed to support around 30 awards.