Minnesota Education Grants

This program provides funding to non-profits and public organizations for projects that improve the community in areas such as arts, education, economic development, and historic preservation within the ISD 88 region.

The North Central Region SARE (NCR-SARE) Research and Education (R&E) Grant Program is a competitive funding opportunity offering $100,000 to $500,000 for up to 3 years to researchers, educators, and organizations exploring sustainable agriculture, with the aim of improving economic viability, environmental quality, and quality of life in the North Central Region's agricultural sector.

The North Central Region SARE (NCR-SARE) Partnership Grant Program is seeking applications to provide funding of $10,000 to $100,000 for projects that foster cooperation between agriculture professionals and small groups of farmers and ranchers, aiming to catalyze on-farm research, demonstration, and education activities related to sustainable agriculture.

The LifeCare Health Care Fund Grants provides financial support for charitable, educational and health care related activities, projects and services benefiting residents and visitors of Roseau County. Donor Name: Northwest Minnesota Foundation State: Minnesota County: Roseau County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/28/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The fund includes a general endowment fund as well as several sub-funds that support specific purposes, such as cancer care, diabetes and dialysis care, updating and replacing medical equipment, hospice projects, and financial assistance for individuals and families that have experienced the loss of a pregnancy or child. Funding Information Grant more than $175,000. Grant Proposal Guidelines The LifeCare Health Care Fund will consider grant requests from nonprofit organizations for monies from the following funds: General Endowment – The purpose of this fund is to provide financial support for health care, wellness, and senior living related charitable and educational activities, projects or services benefiting residents and visitors to the LifeCare Medical Center service area.        Roseau Eagles Auxiliary Diabetes and Dialysis – The purpose of this fund is to provide direct financial support for equipment, training, patient support or other related purposes for diabetic and dialysis needs in Roseau County. Think Pink Breast Cancer  – The purpose of this fund is to provide financial support for patient transportation, education, equipment, and activities related to breast cancer programs within the communities served by LifeCare Medical Center.  Roseau County Cancer – The purpose of this fund is to provide funding for projects, programs, equipment, and services necessary to meet the needs of the community as they relate to cancer care and support of individuals being treated for cancer at Lifecare Medical Center or that reside in Lifecare’s service area. Selection Criteria  Selection Criteria will focus on: How the project/program fits within the mission of LifeCare Health Care Funds, as well as the purpose of the fund being accessed. The scope of the project/program. The number of participants served, number of communities served and number of organizations served. For more information, visit Northwest Minnesota Foundation.

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.

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 Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is seeking applications for its International Medical Graduate Career Guidance and Support Program. Donor Name: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/13/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: International medical graduates (IMGs) have the potential to contribute significantly to Minnesota’s efforts to strengthen the health care workforce and expand access to care, support healthy communities, and provide culturally responsive care to underserved populations. Yet IMGs face many barriers to becoming licensed and practicing medicine in Minnesota. To address these barriers, the IMG Career Guidance and Support program, authorized by Minnesota, awards grants to eligible nonprofit organizations and postsecondary educational institutions to provide career guidance and support services to immigrant IMGs seeking to enter the Minnesota health workforce. Funding Information An estimated $400,000-500,000 will be available to grant this cycle. Funds will be distributed in approximately one or two awards, with an estimated maximum award amount of $400,000 and a minimum of $100,000. Eligiblity Criteria Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations and postsecondary educational institutions that fulfill all of the following criteria:  Are located in Minnesota.  Are in good financial standing.  Demonstrate strong experience and success in:  Working with immigrants and refugees  Working with IMGs Providing health care (physician and non-physician) career guidance and support Grant funds are not transferrable to any other entity. Applicants that are aware of any upcoming mergers, acquisitions, or any other changes in their organization or legal standing, must disclose this information to MDH in their application, or as soon as they are aware of it. For more information, visit MDH.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is accepting applications for its International Medical Graduate Primary Care Residency Grant Program. Donor Name: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Minnesota faces a shortage of primary care physicians, particularly in rural and underserved areas of the state. Physicians who received their medical training in other countries and have immigrated to Minnesota can help strengthen primary care workforce and serve diverse communities across the state. The Minnesota Legislature established programs to facilitate pathways to integrate these physicians into the Minnesota health care workforce. The IMG Primary Care Residency Grant Program provides funding to accredited primary care residency programs in Minnesota to support the training of IIMG residents. IIMGs who accept a grant-funded residency position enter into an agreement with MDH to provide primary care for at least five years in a rural or underserved community in Minnesota after graduating from the residency program. IIMGs also make payments into a revolving account that contributes to sustaining MDH IMG assistance programs, including this residency grant program. Funding Information Estimated Amount to Grant: $390,000. Estimated Award Maximum: $390,000. Eligibility Criteria Eligible applicants fulfill all the following criteria:  Residency program in one of the following primary care specialties:  Family medicine,  General internal medicine,  General pediatrics,  General surgery,  Obstetrics and gynecology, or  Psychiatry.  Located in Minnesota and train medical residents in Minnesota.  Demonstrate current accreditation by and compliance with the Institutional and Program Requirements for Graduate Medical Education in the specialties listed above of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). For more information, visit MDH.

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 Minnesota Department of Health is seeking applications for its 2025 Primary Care Residency Expansion Grant. Donor Name: Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000 Grant Duration: 3 Years Details: In 2015, the Minnesota Legislature enacted Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1506, authorizing the Commissioner of Health to award grants to fund new primary care residency positions. The Primary Care Residency Expansion Grant Program supports the establishment of new primary care residency programs or the training of eligible residents in newly created residency positions within existing programs in Minnesota. This grant program was enacted to address the shortage of primary care physicians in many areas of the state, with the goal of increasing access to primary care for rural and underserved communities. Funding Information The Minnesota Legislature has appropriated $1,900,000 in grant funds for fiscal year 2025. Eligible programs may receive up to $75,000 for primary care residency planning projects. For implementing a new primary care residency slot over a three-year residency period, the maximum award will be $150,000 in year 1, $100,000 in year 2, and $50,000 in year 3. For eligible residency programs longer than three years, training grants may be awarded for the duration of the residency, not exceeding an average of $100,000 per residency slot per year. Eligible Projects Grant funds may be used for: Planning related to establishing an accredited primary care residency program; Obtaining accreditation by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education or another national body that accredits residency programs; Establishing new residency programs or new resident training slots; Recruitment, training, and retention of new primary care residents and faculty; Travel and lodging for new primary care residents; Salary and fringe for new primary care residents, as well as faculty and preceptors related to new residency slots; Training site improvements, fees, equipment, and supplies required for new primary care resident training slots; and Supporting clinical education in which primary care residents are part of a primary care team model. Eligibility Criteria  Eligible applicants are programs, sponsors, and potential sponsors of primary care residency positions that fulfill all the following criteria: Located in Minnesota and train, or propose to train, medical residents in Minnesota. Train, or propose to train, medical residents in the following primary care specialties: Family medicine, General internal medicine, General pediatrics, Psychiatry (including child psychiatry fellowships), Geriatrics, or General surgery. Demonstrate current accreditation by and compliance with the Institutional and Program Requirements for Graduate Medical Education in the specialties listed above of the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) or submit a credible plan to obtain accreditation. Propose to plan or implement one or more new primary care residency slots. Applicants that currently train residents must document the baseline number of residents in the eligible specialty and agree to maintain that baseline number of residents as well as the new resident(s) to be supported with grant funding. Agree to verify the number of residents in the program each year to continue to receive funds. For more information, visit MDH.

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.

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is currently accepting applications for its Small-Town Grant Program. Donor Name: Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation State: Minnesota County: Selected Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 08/26/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: The Small Town Grant Program seeks to invest in collaborative initiatives which improve the way your community works together, solves challenges, creates a welcoming community and sense of belonging for all. SMIF seeks proposals which focus on collaboration throughout the project and will impact the culture, education, economy and/or social aspects of your community. Funding Information  Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation offers up to $10,000. Grant Period 12 Months. Geographic Areas Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation serves south central and southeastern Minnesota which includes 20 counties, 175 communities and one Native nation. This includes the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Dodge, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Houston, Goodhue, Martin, Le Sueur, Nicollet, Mower, Rice, Olmsted, Steele, Sibley, Waseca, Wabasha, Winona and Watonwan, as well as Dakota Oyate (Prairie Island Indian Community). Eligibility Criteria  Eligible organizations are units/agencies of government, IRS-designated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations (current status, not pending), and public institutions (public schools, public higher education, etc.) Organizations which do not comply with the above status may seek a fiscal agent who holds one of the above legal statuses. Exclusions Individuals, businesses, or other for-profit organizations General operating expenses and expenses not directly related to the project Programs or services mandated by law Routine maintenance Campaigns or endowments For more information, visit SMIF.

Applications are now being accepted for the Hunger and Homeless Grant Program towards agencies serving adults, families and youth experiencing homelessness and food insecurity throughout Minnesota. Donor Name: Open Your Heart to the Hungry and Homeless State: Minnesota County: All Counties Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The primary goal is to ensure that these providers of crisis services have the tools, equipment, and infrastructure necessary to best serve those in need. Preference is given to services for people who are currently homeless – on the street or in shelters. Funding Priorities The focus of agency services is on the front end of the continuum. For agencies serving individuals, families and youth experiencing homelessness, preference is given to services for those who are currently homeless – on the street or in shelters (Emergency or Domestic Violence Shelters). Transitional housing has lower priority than shelter. Permanent supportive housing programs are unlikely to receive funding. Hunger programs must be open and free to all in need. Geographic service boundaries are acceptable, but agencies requiring program participation, membership, purchase of food, attendance/participation in religious service, etc., as a requirement to receive food are unlikely to be funded. Infrastructure or equipment for shelters or food shelves must benefit the areas where clients are served improve access to services. Administrative areas, parking lots, etc., are unlikely to be funded. Preference is given to projects that remove barriers, increase the numbers of people served and/or improve the quality of services provided. Funding Information $7,000 Eligible Activities The primary purpose of the Hunger and Homeless Grant is to assist agencies in increasing the number of people served and/or improving the quality of services provided. This can be reflected through facility enhancements within areas directly serving those in need such as repair/replacement of HVAC, added shelter beds and increased refrigeration and storage; through activities that remove barriers for homeless youth in their educational pursuits such as program fees, transportation, and activity costs; and through the funding of hotel vouchers, street outreach supplies, and funding towards securing identification. Eligibility Criteria Agencies serving Minnesotans experiencing food and or housing insecurity as the agency’s primary function. Agencies serving children and youth (up to 24) experiencing housing insecurity in Minnesota. Agencies must have 501(c)3 status OR be recognized as tax exempt by the IRS (i.e., schools, units of government or tribal governments) OR use a fiscal agent with 501(c)3 status. Agencies must have completed the grant closure form for previously awarded grants and returned any unused funds to OYH to follow OYH grant requirements.  Agency does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, disability, age (40 or older) or genetic information (including family medical history). For more information, visit OYH.

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.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to arts organizations in specific Minnesota counties for creating and promoting diverse artistic activities that engage local communities, particularly those benefiting underserved populations.

This funding opportunity supports K-12 schools in nine Minnesota counties to collaborate with professional artists on various arts projects, promoting access to the arts for historically marginalized communities.

The Arts and Cultural Heritage (ACH) program provides funding for arts organizations directly engaged in the creation of art, the production of artistic performances, or the sponsorship of quality arts activities in the local communities. Donor Name: Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council State: Minnesota County: Blue Earth County (MN), Brown County (MN), Faribault County (MN), LeSueur County (MN), Martin County (MN), Nicollet County (MN), Sibley County (MN), Waseca County (MN), Watonwan County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline:  08/01/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: This program is made possible by the Arts and Culture Heritage Fund, created by the people of Minnesota to support the arts and preserve the heritage. The Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment funds this program, through the Minnesota State Legislature. Disciplines may include dance, literature, media arts, music, theater, visual art, folk and traditional art. A variety of activities including art and music festivals, community choirs, dance performances, literary readings, instrumental and vocal music concerts, public art projects, theater productions, visual art classes and exhibitions are eligible. The organization should describe their arts programming and request funds for those activities in the expense categories listed on the application budget. Funds may be used for on-going programs, in-person or virtual, and groups are encouraged to offer new and different activities with the grant funds or enhance their events. Prairie Lakes values an equitable, diverse, and inclusive community and this is reflected in the policies, programs, and the community they serve. They are committed to countering systemic inequities that exclude individuals and communities from access to the arts based on race, gender, disability, national origin, sexual orientation, class, age, and geography. This may include historically marginalized and underserved groups such as: Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), People with Disabilities, LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, etc.), and Senior Citizens. Types of Grants ACH Arts Project Grant. Arts Programming and Access – maximum request $9,000. Funds can be used for in-person or virtual Arts programming, activities, and events. Also, equipment that improves the artistic capabilities of the organization including sound equipment, lights, risers, office equipment, computer, monitor, software, etc. is fundable. ACH Arts and Music Festival Grant. Arts Programming – maximum request $6,000. A celebration of art and culture should include: Has a significant focus on the arts. Preferably provides a showcase of Minnesota artists. Contains many activities consolidated into a condensed time period. Has several different, yet related, arts activities happening simultaneously. Is open, inviting, and available to a diverse audience. ACH Arts Education Grant. Maximum request $6,000. Public Schools. This is available to all public or private non-parochial schools (K-12) in the nine-county area. The focus is to provide educational partnerships between local and regional professional artists, arts, organizations, and schools. To enhance school arts curriculum by providing artist residencies, live arts performances, mini-workshops, and arts related field trips. To enhance programs and curriculum design through visits to professional artists’ studios, performances by professional theatre, dance or musical groups, readings by writers, visits to art galleries, exhibitions, and other locations pertinent to the creation and exhibition of art. To collaborate with arts organizations in the region to perform in their school and/or community. Grant Period All projects should be completed within one year. Eligibility Criteria The applicant organization must have an address and provide arts programming within the Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council region. This includes the counties of Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, LeSueur, Martin, Nicollet, Sibley, Waseca, and Watonwan. Non-profit tax-exempt 501(c)(3) arts organizations, non-profit community groups, schools, public organizations or units of governments that produce or sponsor arts activities within the region are eligible. An arts group located within the region, formed as a limited liability company (LLC) with a not-for-profit intent may be eligible to apply if they are using a fiscal sponsor. For more information, visit Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council.

The Medica Foundation is seeking applications for its Rural Health Grants to fund nonprofit, community-led solutions that address health needs and social determinants of health in rural communities. Donor Name: Medica Foundation State: Minnesota County: Anoka County (MN), Carver County (MN), Dakota County (MN), Hennepin County (MN), Ramsey County (MN), Scott County (MN), Washington County (MN) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The Medica Foundation proposals address: Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities Children and youth Families Immigrants and refugees LGBTQ+ communities Seniors Survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence Veterans Funding Areas Behavioral Health Culturally-focused care Domestic violence and sexual assault services and prevention Early childhood health Oral health Primary care for underserved communities Senior care Sexual health Transportation  Funding Information Individual grants may be awarded up to $10,000. Eligibility Criteria Rural Health grant recipients are eligible to submit an application for funding in consecutive years. Funding is limited to organizations located and based outside of the seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area in Minnesota, where fundraising is conducted on a solely local level and not supported by a main office elsewhere. Organizations seeking to do work within the service area but do not have a physical presence in Greater Minnesota are ineligible. Funding requests for events, camps, sponsorships and seminars are ineligible. For more information, visit Medica Foundation.