Minnesota Diversity Equity and Inclusion Grants

This program provides mentorship, training, and resources to emerging and diverse developers in Ramsey County to support the creation of affordable housing for low to moderate-income residents.

This grant provides up to $15,000 in research and evaluation support to small, culturally specific nonprofits in Minnesota that serve diverse communities and need assistance with projects like survey development and evaluation planning.

The Ramsey County's Critical Corridors Development & Infrastructure program is a redevelopment grant, offering $100,000 to $500,000 for projects that intensify land use, facilitate multifamily housing, improve pedestrian or bicycle infrastructure, and promote development in disinvested areas within transit, economic, and cultural corridors in Ramsey County, Minnesota.

The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota Fund for Safety resources innovation to end gender-based violence, a continuum that includes sex trafficking, domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment. Donor Name: Women’s Foundation of Minnesota State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 09/20/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Fund for Safety continues and expands investment in women’s safety as it works with communities to end gender-based violence. In partnership with community leaders, the Women’s Foundation follows an ethos of listening and responding to community concerns to drive strategic, cross-sector plans and create collective impact. The focus on Safety prioritizes ending all forms of violence that affect women, girls, and gender-expansive people including sexual violence, physical violence, state and structural violence, and exploitation and abuse experienced by elders and people with disabilities. The Fund responds to community concerns and drives strategic cross-sector plans for collective impact as they eliminate barriers that create health, economic, gender, and racial inequities. WFM is committed to investing in organizations working with Black, Indigenous, Latinx, Asian and Pacific Islander communities, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, Greater and rural MN communities, and immigrant and refugee populations. The Fund for Safety has three priorities with anticipated outcomes listed below. As a result of listening to communities and grantee-partners, WFM invests in healing from trauma and cultivating community-centered solutions for survivors of gender-based violence, which includes sex trafficking, domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse of elders and people with disabilities, as well as state and structural violence. Goals Strengthen systems and infrastructure to sustain the movement to end genderbased violence, which includes sex trafficking, domestic violence, rape, sexual assault, sexual harassment, exploitation and abuse of elders and people with disabilities, as well as state and structural violence. Build and sustain the movement for missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls; missing and murdered Black women and girls; and preventing violence against Latina women to address systemic inequities and reform policies that perpetuate gender-based, state-sanctioned violence. Prevent cycles of gender-based violence with young women, men, and gender-expansive people to address misogyny, misogynoir, and toxic masculinity through education to promote healthy gender norms and relationships. Grant Amount Grant is a one-year investment of $20,000 in general operating support. Eligibility Criteria Nonprofit tax-exempt organizations and schools that are based in Minnesota and operate programs in Minnesota. Unincorporated organizations with a tax-exempt fiscal sponsor. American Indian Nations. Funding Criteria Programs located in Minnesota Programs are specific to benefit Minnesota women, girls, and gender-expansive people and/or organizations serving at least 50 to 75 percent of women, girls, and gender-expansive people. The definition of a woman is anyone who identifies as a woman. The program is inclusive of transgender, gender nonconforming, gender nonbinary, and all gender-expansive people who experience gender-based structural harm. Organizations demonstrate the ability to work in partnership with other organizations Programs are driving innovative solutions that advance gender and racial equity and justice by increasing access to safety. For more information, visit WFMN.

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

The 2024-25 Giving Project Grant specifically seeks to support organizations whose work advances gender justice in Minnesota. Donor Name: Headwaters Foundation for Justice State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/29/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 2 Years Details: The Giving Project is dedicated to funding Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)-led, grassroots, community-based organizations across Minnesota that use community organizing as a core strategy to advance equity and justice. Areas of interest for the 2024-25 Giving Project Grant include but are not limited to: reproductive justice; bodily autonomy; queer and trans justice; gender equity; healthcare equity and access; anti-gender-based violence; and leadership development for gender-oppressed folks of color. Funding Information The organizations selected for the 2024-25 Giving Project Grant will receive unrestricted, general operating grants of $40,000 paid out over two years, $20,000 per year. Eligibility Criteria To be eligible, an organization must: Be a legally incorporated entity with 501(c)(3), or, 501(c)(4) status, or have a fiscal sponsor, or be a tribal nation/tribal entity. Be based in and carry out their work in Minnesota. In addition, eligible organizations may: Be a current or past Headwaters’ grantee partner. Be new to Headwaters. Be either an emerging or established organization. For more information, visit Headwaters Foundation for Justice.

The Julianne Williams Fund, managed by the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, offers grants between $1,000 and $8,000 to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, schools, or government entities within a 30-mile radius of St. Cloud, Minnesota, that aim to empower girls and young women through physical and outdoor activities, and promote mutual respect between genders, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

The Health Professionals Clinical Training Expansion (HPCE) grant program support the establishment or expansion of clinical training for eligible health professional training programs. Donor Name: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/09/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: 3 Years Details: Providing funding opportunities for clinical training programs will strengthen Minnesota’s health care workforce and increase access to primary care and mental health services for rural and underserved urban communities. This grant program funds activities associated with planning and implementing new clinical training programs and expanding the number of professionals trained through existing clinical training programs in rural and underserved urban areas in Minnesota. Priorities Health Equity Priorities The Health Professionals Clinical Training Expansion Grant seeks to expand Minnesota’s health care workforce by establishing and expanding clinical training opportunities, with a particular focus on increasing the number of health professionals serving in rural and underserved urban communities in Minnesota. Clinical training is a necessary component of health professional education, but capacity for clinical training is limited and barriers to expansion exist.  This grant will serve: Rural and underserved urban communities by strengthening Minnesota’s health care workforce and improving access to health care. Eligible health professional programs and students by expanding clinical training opportunities. Grant outcomes will include: Greater access to health care in rural and underserved urban Minnesota communities. An increase in the number of clinical training opportunities for health professionals. Other Competitive Priorities Program advances health equity. Program incorporates strong model of team-based primary care. Program is likely to be sustainable after the grant period. Funding Information The Minnesota Legislature has appropriated $500,000 annually for this program. Distribution of Funding: Eligible clinical training programs may receive up to $75,000 for a one-year planning project. Eligible clinical training programs may receive up to $300,000 for a three-year expansion project. Eligible Expenses  Grant funds awarded may only be spent to cover the costs of: Establishing or expanding clinical training for physician assistants, advanced practice registered nurses, pharmacists, dental therapists, advanced dental therapists, and mental health professionals in Minnesota.  Recruitment, training, and retention of students and faculty.  Connecting students with appropriate clinical training sites, internships, practicums, or externship activities.  Development and implementation of health equity and cultural responsiveness training.  Supporting clinical education in which trainees are part of a team-based primary care model.  Travel and lodging for students.  Faculty, student and preceptor salaries, incentives, or other financial support.  Training site improvements, fees, equipment, and supplies required to establish, maintain, or expand an eligible training program.  Evaluations of the clinical training program(s). Eligibility Criteria  Eligible applicants are programs that fulfill the following criteria: Are located in Minnesota and train, or propose to train, students residing and working in Minnesota.  Plan to establish or expand clinical training for students in the following health professional programs: Advanced Practice Registered Nursing Program  Must be accredited as a master’s, doctoral, or postgraduate level advanced practice registered nursing program by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, or be a candidate for accreditation. Dental Therapy Program or Advanced Dental Therapy Program  Must be approved by the Minnesota Board of Dentistry or currently accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation.  Mental Health Professional Program  Must be accredited by the appropriate accrediting body for clinical social work, psychology, marriage and family therapy, or licensed professional clinical counseling, or be a candidate for accreditation.  A mental health professional is defined as an individual providing clinical services in the treatment of mental illness who meets one of the qualifications under MN Statutes Pharmacy Program  Must be accredited as a Doctor of Pharmacy program by the Accreditation Council on Pharmacy Education.  Physician Assistant Program Must be accredited as a physician assistant program by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant or be a candidate for accreditation.  Applicants must be able to demonstrate membership and compliance with the corresponding accrediting bodies.  Applicants from the same organization may hold two grants as long as they are providing clinical training program planning or expansion in two different departments. For more information, visit MDH.

The Ramsey County is seeking applications for its Ramsey County Trusted Messenger Initiative Grants. Donor Name: Ramsey County State: Minnesota County: Dakota County (MN), Ramsey County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/12/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The purpose of these grants is to generate and grow innovative ways to deliver a variety of public health services, resources and information. Focus an Scope Services Each organization must only submit one application and can only select one priority area below. Healthy Communities: The applicant collaborates to increase awareness and access to culturally informed public health information and programs which include healthy aging, Hmong health, sexual violence services, adolescent health, and child and teen checkups. Extra effort is made to reach racially and ethnically diverse communities, immigrant families and new Minnesotans who face the greatest health inequalities, language barriers, and/or may be isolated from county and other community services. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC): The applicant collaborates to increase WIC program awareness and referrals of pregnant and postpartum women and their children so they may receive healthy food, nutrition education and lactation support. Extra effort is made to reach people early in pregnancy and multigenerational African American populations. Family Health and Home Visiting: The applicant collaborates to promote equity in birth outcomes for racially and ethnically diverse communities, especially African American, Native American, Latino/x and immigrant populations. Extra effort is made to support families, fathers and other caregivers, to navigate care before and after birth and to increase cultural and community connections using a holistic approach. Clinical Services: The applicant collaborates to increase awareness and access to vaccines and immunizations, tuberculosis care, sexual and reproductive health services such as HIV and STD testing and treatment, syringe services, wound care, naloxone training and outreach for people using drugs. Environmental Health: The applicant collaborates to find creative ways to increase participation in food scraps pick-up, household hazardous waste drop-off and electronics recycling programs, especially within racially and ethnically diverse communities. They also increase awareness of the Environmental Service Center, the future “one stop shop” for recycling and waste collection. Climate Action: The applicant collaborates to increases awareness of climate change and its impacts on health as well as the county’s resources and programs to lessen those impacts. Funding Information Ramsey County Public Health is continuing this initiative and anticipates awarding approximately 10 grants, up to $36,000 each. Eligibility Criteria Current and former Trusted Messenger organizations may apply. The following are not requirements, however these people or organizations are encouraged to apply: Those who have never contracted with Ramsey County before. Ethnically and culturally diverse, women-owned or veteran-owned organizations. Organizations with less than 50 employees. Organizations serving not only Ramsey County but also adjacent counties including Dakota County. For more information, visit Ramsey County.

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.

Applications are now being accepted for the 2024 Mardag Foundation Grant Program. Donor Name: Mardag Foundation State: Minnesota County: Dakota County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Washington County (MN) Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) Details: Mardag Foundation believes that the community should not only benefit from the work, but inform and form it as well. Creating solutions to today’s issues requires a collaborative approach. The work is also rooted in a commitment to racial equity. Funding Priorities The Mardag Foundation has three focus areas and will consider proposals that address one or more of the following: Improving the lives of low-income Children, Youth and Families that lack access to critical opportunities and resources that they need Mardag Foundation seeks to support organizations focused on eliminating barriers and increasing access to equitable opportunities for children, youth and families.  Priority will be given to organizations working with marginalized communities (especially Black, Indigenous and communities of color) at the intersections of education, basic needs, mental health, access to healthcare, pathways to employment, and stable and affordable housing. Supporting older adults across Minnesota who lack access or have barriers to critical opportunities to thrive and create community connections Mardag Foundation supports organizations directly serving low-income older adults who may also be experiencing other forms of marginality (e.g., Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, etc.). Priorities include meeting basic needs, improving the well-being and quality of caregiving, addressing isolation and mental health issues, services to help older Minnesotans age in place and/or in safe and stable housing, and intergenerational programming. Building capacity to improve community vitality through Arts & Culture Mardag Foundation shares Grantmakers in the Arts’ view that “all 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., older adults, people with disabilities, low-income children/youth/families, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, etc.) through the arts. Types of Grants The Foundation will consider grant applications for: General Operating Support These grants provide flexible funding for nonprofits in which at least 50% of the organization’s services benefit residents in the East Metro and/or Greater Minnesota. Any organization meeting this threshold is eligible for general operating support (including organizations that have never previously received support from Mardag Foundation). Capital Projects Capital projects must be located in Greater Minnesota or the East Metro AND 50% or more of all services provided by the entire organization must benefit Greater Minnesota and/or East Metro (Washington, Dakota and Ramsey counties) residents. Grants are designed to support 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. Geographic Areas  The Mardag Foundation makes grants to nonprofit organizations and public entities located within and serving residents of Minnesota. The geographic focus of our grantmaking is the East Metro area of Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties, as well as Greater Minnesota. Eligibility Criteria  Grants can be made to 501(c)3 organizations, education or governmental units and religious institutions. While an organization may be eligible to apply, attention and preference will be given to organizations: Prioritizing people experiencing the most marginalization, especially due to race, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, age, ability, immigration status, etc. Where work is informed, formed and led by the people most impacted by it. Ineligibility The Foundation will not consider grant applications for: Organizations using fiscal sponsors Organizations exclusively serving Minneapolis and the surrounding West Metro area Scholarships and grants to individuals Sectarian religious programs or organizations Federated campaigns Events and conferences Capital campaigns of private secondary schools Capital and endowment campaigns of private colleges and universities Program/project specific requests For more information, visit Mardag 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 Minneapolis Foundation announces a call for proposals from nonprofits, schools, and school districts seeking grants for work that advances equity and supports youth voice in local K-12 schools. Donor Name: Minneapolis Foundation State: Minnesota City: Selected Cities Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/21/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Less than 1 Year Details: The Reimagine Education grants prioritize efforts to: Elevate student and community voices and power to build bridges between schools, families, and communities and improve school climates and academic outcomes. Provide opportunities for educators to build their understanding of race and equity and implement strategies that create culturally responsive and inclusive schools. Advocate for policies at the school, local, and state level to address systemic barriers to racial equity in Minnesota’s education system. Here’s a non-exhaustive list of  the types of work foundation plans to support: Student leadership and power building Recruitment and retention of diverse educators with equity-focused mindsets Principal and teacher leadership and collaboration Development of equity and climate frameworks Local or state policy advocacy Professional development and training to support teachers and school leaders to implement evidence-based literacy instruction Development and implementation of strategies to address student mental health challenges and improve school climate and culture Efforts to engage students and their families in district and school-level decision-making. Funding Information Grants will range from $10,000 to $75,000, with an average award of $25,000 to $40,000. Grant Period The grant period is September 2, 2024, to June 13, 2025. Eligibility Criteria  Funding will be awarded to public schools or school districts and 501(c)(3) nonprofits that organize students, parents, and community members; engage in education policy advocacy to advance equity and eliminate disparities; and help educators collaborate to build their understanding of race, equity, and culture, and to create positive school climates. Foundation will prioritize proposals that impact Minneapolis; however, they will consider organizations in inner-ring suburbs (Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Robbinsdale, St. Louis Park, etc.). For more information, visit Minneapolis Foundation.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to innovative technology startups in Minnesota for research, development, and business expenses, helping them grow and succeed in their early years.

The Initiative Foundation provides grants to nonprofits and local government units for program or capacity-building support; projects that advance diversity, equity and inclusion; and strategies to address workforce shortages. Donor Name: Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 08/09/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Proposals that focus on at least one of the following areas will be given priority consideration: Capacity-building support for nonprofits, with priority to those addressing urgent needs and/or the needs of low-income communities. This includes support for business planning, fund development, training, or pilot programming. Cost share for projects intended to create behavioral change associated with advancing diversity, equity and inclusion. Advancement of community-based strategies to address regional workforce shortages in sectors which lead to family-sustaining wages. Support for local and regional community and economic development entities advancing early-stage feasibility or pilot projects. Funding Information Grants seldom exceed $7,500 and are not intended to provide ongoing support. Eligibility Criteria  Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, school districts, or local units of government that serve Benton, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, and/or Wright counties, and/or the Native nations of the Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Bands of Ojibwe within the boundaries of the 14-county region served by the Initiative Foundation. Ineligible Expenses  Funding requests from outside the Initiative Foundation’s geographic service area will not be considered. Individuals are not eligible to apply for grant funding. The following expenses are ineligible and will NOT be considered for funding: Grants or reimbursements to individuals and businesses. Expenses incurred prior to the receipt of a grant award. Capital expenses (e.g., buildings, equipment, vehicles, etc.). Programs or projects that DO NOT directly benefit residents in the Initiative Foundation’s 14-county service area. Replacement of or substitution for government funding. Religious activities. Lobbying or campaigning for a candidate, issue or referendum vote. Development or purchase of school curriculum or support for school athletic programs. Out-of-state travel. Healthcare, arts and historic preservation are not focus areas for the Initiative Foundation’s discretionary grants. Potential applicants are encouraged to speak with staff before beginning an application associated with one of these areas. For more information, visit Initiative Foundation.

The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota has launched the Innovators Program. Donor Name: Women’s Foundation of Minnesota State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 06/24/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota (WFM) believes in the leadership and ideas of young women and gender-expansive leaders in state. Through the Innovators program, WFM provides microgrants of $3,000 directly to young women and gender-expansive people (ages 16-24) to fuel their ideas and support their development as leaders with microgrants, cohort-based learning, and individual leadership coaching. Innovators leadership, ideas, and solutions advance key recommendations in the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota’s (YWI MN) Blueprint for Action. Grants through the Innovators program fund projects that advance gender and racial equity and justice, led by visionary leaders who are leading within their communities from the intersections of their identities and experiences. Innovators meet as a cohort in-person for technical support and leadership development.  Focus Areas GOAL 1: Build Pathways to Economic Opportunity. GOAL 2: Improve Safety and Well-being. GOAL 3: Promote Young Women’s Leadership. Project Period The funds must be used within 12 months. Funds can be used Think creatively: How can this microgrant uniquely help move your leadership and ideas forward? How can it help you be more effective in the impact you want to make? Example projects could be executed in the following ways: Start or continue a social change initiative. Design and pursue a personal learning plan. Attend a conference and share learnings with community for impact. Organize an event for impact. Supply resources to organize people for advocacy. Research Travel as part of greater learning and share in Minnesota for impact. Participation Leadership Convenings & Coaching – WFMN will engage young women in mandatory online and/or in-person convenings for leadership development, advocacy, and building community. The convenings will give young women an opportunity to support, develop, and scale their leadership and ideas. This leadership development includes direct professional coaching to support Innovators in their grant-funded projects and to deepen their leadership for the long term. Eligibility Criteria The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota is accepting applications from eligible applicants in the state of Minnesota. Eligible candidates: Must be 16-24 years old at the date of program kickoff. Identify as a young woman and/or gender-expansive youth. The definition of a young woman is anyone who identifies as a woman. The program is inclusive of transgender, gender nonconforming, gender nonbinary, and all gender-expansive people who experience gender-based structural harm. Applicants must reside in the state of Minnesota throughout the grant period. Priority given to young women and gender-expansive leaders who identify with at least one of the priority communities of the Young Women’s Initiative of Minnesota: Black/African American, African Immigrant, American Indian, Hispanic/Latina, Asian/Pacific Islander, LGBTQ+, Disabilities, Greater/Rural Minnesota. Citizenship is not required For more information, visit WFMN.

Minnesota Housing, in partnership with Greater Minnesota Housing Fund (GMHF) announces the availability of funds through the Single Family RFP. Donor Name: Minnesota Housing State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 07/11/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: 3 Years Details: The Community Homeownership Impact Fund (Impact Fund) Program provides multiple sources of competitive funding to increase the supply of affordable, owner-occupied, single family housing, while maintaining the safety and habitability of existing owner-occupied, single family homes in communities throughout Minnesota. The Single Family RFP is funded by a variety of state resources provided by the Minnesota Legislature and Minnesota Housing’s own resources. The amount of available funding is dependent, in part, upon state appropriations approved by the Minnesota legislature, as well as demand for other uses of Minnesota Housing resources. Types of Funding  Applicants can apply for a variety of funding types, and in combinations suited to the applicant’s project. Awarded applicants may receive the following types of funding: Grants  Grants are awarded to selected applicants on a competitive basis to fund value gap, affordability gap/down payment assistance grants or forgivable loans, owner-occupied rehabilitation, the Tribal Indian Housing Program, interest-rate write downs, and other eligible activities for which Minnesota Housing may not recapture loans without increasing housing costs beyond affordability to the eligible homebuyer. Grants are subject to policies and requirements set by the Minnesota Department of Administration’s Office of Grants Management. Housing Infrastructure Bond (HIB) Proceeds Deferred Loans  HIB proceeds are awarded to selected applicants in the form of 3-year, 0% interest, deferred, forgivable loans to finance value gap or owner-occupied rehabilitation. HIB proceeds may also be used by community land trusts (CLTs) for land acquisition, demolition and utility connections. HIB proceeds loans will be forgiven if the awarded applicant satisfies all contract conditions. Interim Loans  Interim loans are awarded to selected applicants in the form of 42-month, interest bearing, deferred, repayable loans to finance the acquisition, demolition, rehabilitation or construction of owner-occupied homes. Interim loans must be repaid and include monthly interest payments, quarterly financial reporting, and a demonstration of the ability to meet net asset and current ratios according to contract conditions. Interest rates will be set at a future time and are anticipated to be between 4.5% and 8.5% subject to the market. Interim loans may be secured or unsecured and may not be transferred to eligible homebuyers. Deferred Loans  Deferred loans are awarded to selected applicants to originate and close affordability gap/downpayment assistance loans to homebuyers or owner-occupied rehabilitation loans to homeowners. Loans to homebuyers and homeowners are structured as 30-year, 0% interest, deferred, repayable loans. Deferred loans are originated and closed by the awarded applicant then assigned to Minnesota Housing. Funding Information GMHF provides funding for affordability gap in the form of deferred, subordinate loans at 0% interest. The maximum loan amount per homebuyer is $15,000. GMHF will give preference to applications that apply a racial and economic equity lens to promote economic inclusion in the benefits of homeownership among households of color, immigrant households, and households with disabled members, and that seek to leverage cross-sector health and housing partnerships to improve community and individual health through investments in affordable housing. Grant Period Funded awards will have 3-year contract terms, with the exception of Interim Loans which will have 42-month contract terms. Awarded applicants are expected to complete funded projects within three years, not to exceed five years. Eligible Activities The Impact Fund may be used for the following activities related to single family, owner-occupied housing, including manufactured homes. See each item below for relevant details. Acquisition, Rehabilitation, Resale New Construction Owner-Occupied Rehabilitation Stand-Alone Affordability Gap Tribal Indian Housing Program All funded projects must result in homes that are: Owner-occupied; Residential in nature; No more than four units with at least one unit occupied by the owner of the structure; Occupied by eligible homebuyers or homeowners (see income limits section); and Affordable to the local workforce. Eligibility Criteria  Impact Fund grants or loans may be awarded to a: City Federally recognized American Indian Tribe or subdivision located in Minnesota Tribal housing corporation Private developer Nonprofit organization School district, cooperative unit as defined in Minnesota Statute 123A.24 subdivision 2, or charter school. For more information, visit Minnesota Housing.

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.

New American in the Long-Term Care Workforce grant is for New Americans to obtain, maintain, and grow in the long-term care (LTC) workforce while supporting LTC organizations. Donor Name: Department of Human Services (DHS) State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 05/06/2024 Size of the Grant: More than $1 million Grant Duration: 2 Years Details: The purpose of these grants is to provide specialized services and supports to New Americans to enter and grow within the long-term care (LTC) workforce. DHS, through its Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division, has the authority to enter into grant contracts that will increase the number and ability of New Americans to obtain, maintain, and grow in the long-term care (LTC) workforce while supporting LTC organizations. Funding Information The State anticipates awarding up to $12 million in the first round of applicants, however, the State reserves the right to adjust this amount based on the number and capacity of responders. Grant Period The term of the initial grant period is anticipated to be from August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2026. Eligible Applicants Nonprofit organizations, community-based agencies, educational institutions, LTC employers, and government entities with a demonstrated commitment to serving New Americans. Grants can support: Onsite Occupational English classes, training and supports In-house mentorship programs Cultural Competency and cultural humility trainings for long-term care employers and staff Hiring bonuses and incentives Digital skills training and digital access Developing mentorship programs Career-pathways program to support employee retention Career navigation and career education Financial literacy, education, and coaching Training stipends and/or tuition reimbursement Wraparound support services such as mental health supports, medical career education, childcare, and transportation. For more information, visit DHS.