Best Dakota County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Memorial Lutheran Church Endowment Fund in Afton aims to enrich community life through charitable, educational, and religious grants. Overseen by a dedicated committee, it welcomes applications from both members and non-members to support innovative projects that extend beyond regular ministry needs. The fund encourages initiatives that foster faith, support local and international charities, and assist individuals pursuing theological education, thereby promoting the church's mission of sharing God's love globally.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Dakota County, Minnesota can apply for approximately US $15,000 to support affordable housing, workforce development, economic development, and financial empowerment programs. Grants from Old National Bank help community-based groups serving underrepresented and low- to moderate-income residents deliver measurable, sustainable impact within the bank’s regional footprint.

Nestlé Purina is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and the communities they serve. Through their event sponsorship program, they support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. that focus on the welfare of cats and dogs. Eligible events must be located within 50 miles of their St. Louis headquarters, ensuring that their contributions directly benefit local communities. Purina's commitment to pets and people strengthens the bond between them.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing direct services to women 18 and older in Dakota County, Minnesota can apply for WCA Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $30,000 to support fundamental needs like education, economic stability, shelter, safety, and health. Focused on human services, The Minneapolis Foundation offers both project and general operating support for eligible programs.

The Securian Foundation focuses on enhancing community well-being through financial stability, youth education, and vibrant communities. They aim to empower families by supporting initiatives that ensure equitable access to basic needs, promote financial literacy, and encourage community engagement in arts and culture. The foundation prioritizes funding for food security, housing, workforce development, educational programs, and civic opportunities, while maintaining a commitment to serving underrepresented populations.

The Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to bolster rural communities by providing funding for essential emergency response equipment for volunteer fire, rescue, and ambulance departments. With grants up to $4,000, this initiative ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect and serve their communities effectively. Eligibility is limited to rural departments in the 144-county territory, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to support organizations enhancing services at farmers markets. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for marketing efforts, technology upgrades, and vendor education. Eligible applicants must be bona fide farmers markets with at least three vendors of locally-produced products and must operate in the designated 144-county area. Priority is given to markets that have not previously received funding.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The RBC Foundation Grants prioritize support for youth-focused programs in the Minneapolis & St. Paul area, targeting ages 15-29. Emphasis is placed on initiatives that enhance work-integrated learning, address skills gaps, and promote access to critical educational opportunities. Additionally, the Foundation invests in arts and culture, supporting emerging artists and programs that foster community engagement. Health grants focus on youth mental well-being, ensuring access to necessary care through innovative navigation and technology-based solutions.

Mount Sinai Community Foundation Grant

Our Mission

The Mount Sinai Community Foundation is a collective giving circle whose members come together to support initiatives that improve health, enhance well-being, or otherwise advance medical care in the Jewish and larger communities, honoring the history and legacy of the Mount Sinai Hospital.

MSCF seeks to fund innovative grant proposals from 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for one-time grants up to $10,000 that fulfill MSCF’s mission to improve health, enhance well-being, or otherwise advance medical care for Minnesota residents. 

Through the generosity of the Frances & Samuel Finkelstein/Janice Finkelstein Mattison Memorial Fund, one of the grantees may receive funding in the area of: cancer research and education; mental health or cancer treatment; medical ethics and quality assurance; or patient advocacy programs.

Funding Priorities

• MSCF seeks to fund innovative programs and/or essential equipment that have a meaningful, direct, and high impact on the target population.
• MSCF is especially interested in discrete projects that can be identified as MSCF funded efforts. These projects or items may be funded by MSCF funds alone or with a limited number of other funding partners.
• Applicants with unique grant requests who may be unable to secure funding elsewhere are encouraged to apply.
• Funding sought for information technology or equipment and/or software upgrades will not be considered unless they are integral to the delivery of the health or medical services provided.
• Grant requests where MSCF grant dollars are only a small component of the overall project budget are unlikely to be funded.
• Through the generosity of the Frances & Samuel Finkelstein/Janice Finkelstein Mattison Memorial Fund, one of the grants may receive funding for cancer research or education; medical ethics/patient advocacy programs; or treatment for children, seniors, disabled, or the homeless.

Strengthening Jewish Life Through Strategic Investment

The St. Paul Jewish Federation provides grants that empower organizations to create, expand, and sustain programs aligned with our mission: building a vibrant, inclusive, and connected Jewish community across our 12-county region.

Our Community Impact Funding supports innovative initiatives, essential operations, and rapid-response needs—advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity.

Regional Grantmaking for a Connected Jewish Community

The St. Paul Jewish Federation serves Jewish individuals and families across a 12-county region, from Pine County to Steele County and from Wabasha to Kanabec. Jewish life in our region is geographically dispersed, with people connected through colleges and universities, schools, congregations, social service organizations, and community institutions spread across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Regional grantmaking ensures that distance does not limit access, visibility, or belonging. Through Community Impact Funding, the Federation invests strategically in organizations and initiatives that meet people where they are, strengthen essential operations, support innovation, and respond quickly to emerging needs — advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity so that no Jew ever feels alone, no matter where they live or learn.

Ignite Grants

Ignite Grants offer one-year funding for new or expanded programs that spark innovation, inclusion, and connection. Open to new and existing partners.

Fueling Ideas. Igniting Impact.

Ignite grants are designed to support programs, projects, and events that align with Federation priorities. Programs, projects, and events funded by Ignite Grants will offer the Jewish community both immediate benefits and the potential for long-term value. Ignite Grants are open to Jewish organizations serving the St. Paul Jewish Federation service area.

Ignite grants fund new programs, projects, or events designed to address otherwise unmet needs in the Jewish community and existing programs, projects, or events that have shown past community impact.

Applicants must demonstrate organizational health, alignment with Federation priorities, and a measurable community benefit. Organizations that receive Ignite Grants are also eligible to apply for Pillar Grants or K-12 Education formula funding and Burst Micro Grants.

Strengthening Jewish Life Through Strategic Investment

The St. Paul Jewish Federation provides grants that empower organizations to create, expand, and sustain programs aligned with our mission: building a vibrant, inclusive, and connected Jewish community across our 12-county region.

Our Community Impact Funding supports innovative initiatives, essential operations, and rapid-response needs—advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity.

Regional Grantmaking for a Connected Jewish Community

The St. Paul Jewish Federation serves Jewish individuals and families across a 12-county region, from Pine County to Steele County and from Wabasha to Kanabec. Jewish life in our region is geographically dispersed, with people connected through colleges and universities, schools, congregations, social service organizations, and community institutions spread across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Regional grantmaking ensures that distance does not limit access, visibility, or belonging. Through Community Impact Funding, the Federation invests strategically in organizations and initiatives that meet people where they are, strengthen essential operations, support innovation, and respond quickly to emerging needs — advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity so that no Jew ever feels alone, no matter where they live or learn.

St. Paul Jewish Federation: K-12 Education Grants

Our K–12 Education Grants support innovative programs that expand access to quality Jewish learning experiences for students across Greater St. Paul.

Expanding access to Jewish learning for K–12 students

K–12 Education Grants are awarded by the St. Paul Jewish Federation’s Education Committee to support innovative, impactful programs that meet the evolving educational needs of children and teens across our 12-county service area. With limited funding available annually, this grant helps fill critical gaps—especially in areas not addressed by other initiatives—by supporting new and creative approaches to Jewish education.

These grants are open to recipients of other Federation funding (including Pillar and Ignite Grants) and are evaluated based on program clarity, innovation, alignment with Federation priorities, evaluation plans, and community collaboration. Each application must represent a single program.

The C.H. Robinson Foundation's Twin Cities Grants Program, established in 2005, focuses on enhancing local communities through grants that support basic needs such as hunger, shelter, education, and workforce development. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and serve the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. The program prioritizes initiatives that address food insecurity, provide housing solutions, and improve educational opportunities, ultimately aiming to foster a stronger, more resilient community.

Strengthening Jewish Life Through Strategic Investment

The St. Paul Jewish Federation provides grants that empower organizations to create, expand, and sustain programs aligned with our mission: building a vibrant, inclusive, and connected Jewish community across our 12-county region.

Our Community Impact Funding supports innovative initiatives, essential operations, and rapid-response needs—advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity.

Regional Grantmaking for a Connected Jewish Community

The St. Paul Jewish Federation serves Jewish individuals and families across a 12-county region, from Pine County to Steele County and from Wabasha to Kanabec. Jewish life in our region is geographically dispersed, with people connected through colleges and universities, schools, congregations, social service organizations, and community institutions spread across urban, suburban, and rural communities.

Regional grantmaking ensures that distance does not limit access, visibility, or belonging. Through Community Impact Funding, the Federation invests strategically in organizations and initiatives that meet people where they are, strengthen essential operations, support innovation, and respond quickly to emerging needs — advancing Jewish education, engagement, equity, and continuity so that no Jew ever feels alone, no matter where they live or learn.

St. Paul Jewish Federation: Burst Micro-Grants

Fast, flexible support for urgent or small-scale needs.

Burst Micro Grants offer up to $2,500 in rapid-response funding to support urgent needs, pilot programs, or small-scale events that arise outside of Pillar or Ignite grant cycles. Requests should align with Federation priorities and are open to Jewish organizations serving the St. Paul Jewish Federation service area.

Applicants are eligible to receive one Burst Micro Grant every 12 months. Applicants can expect a decision on the grant within approximately 30 days of receipt of the request. Applicants must demonstrate organizational health, alignment with Federation priorities, and a measurable community benefit. Organizations that receive Burst Micro Grants are also eligible to apply for Pillar Grants or K-12 Education formula funding and Ignite Grants.

The Hugh J. Andersen Foundation Grant supports community-focused initiatives aimed at enhancing inclusivity and self-sufficiency within the St. Croix Valley. The foundation prioritizes asset-based programs led by the communities they serve, particularly those benefiting children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS 501(c)(3) and located in designated counties. The foundation does not fund individual scholarships or loans, lobbying, or fiscal agents, aiming for collaborative funding efforts.

Hormel Foods Corporation is dedicated to making a positive impact through its charitable initiatives, primarily focused on food security, community support, and educational programming. The Hormel Foods Charitable Trust provides financial support to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations that align with these giving pillars, ensuring access to nutritious and affordable meals while promoting sustainable practices. By emphasizing social responsibility, Hormel Foods aims to improve the quality of life in communities and address pressing social issues.

The Donaldson Foundation offers organizational grants focused on enhancing educational opportunities and community involvement. With an annual budget of $1.2 million, the foundation supports various initiatives, including scholarships and matching grants to educational institutions. It prioritizes organizations that demonstrate a clear need and impact, especially in areas where Donaldson operates. Eligible recipients must be IRS tax-exempt and located in specific U.S. regions, ensuring the foundation's commitment to local communities.

About F. R. Bigelow Foundation

F. R. Bigelow Foundation funds programs and helps shape initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods and downtown Saint Paul, while enhancing the quality of life in the East Metro area.

Since its founding in 1946, F. R. Bigelow Foundation remains committed to its founding principle of making the Saint Paul community a better place to live, learn and grow. From 1946 through today, the Foundation has invested deeply into neighborhoods across the East Metro, with an emphasis on Saint Paul.

Systems Change Grant Program 

Our Systems Change Grant Program supports efforts to help systems adapt, transform and/or be disrupted to achieve more equitable results.

F. R. Bigelow Foundation believes that our community should not only benefit from our work, but inform and form it as well. Creating solutions to today’s issues requires a collaborative approach. Our work is also rooted in a commitment to racial equity.

The goal of our Systems Change Grant Program is to support efforts to help systems adapt, transform and/or be disrupted to achieve more equitable results.

To do this, we support organizations, programs or initiatives in or serving the East Metro working to address root causes of issues impacting the East Metro.

General operating support will be awarded to organizations, programs or initiatives in or serving the East Metro working to address root causes of any issue impacting the East Metro (including, but not limited to, the five funding priorities of our Community Solutions Grant Program). 

In 2026, up to $1,200,000 is available for this grant program, and we anticipate awarding approximately two to three grants.

The Foundation’s Systems Change Grant Program seeks to address root causes of any issue impacting the East Metro, including, but not limited to, the five funding priorities of our Community Solutions Grant Program:

• Arts & Culture
• Community & Economic Development
• Health
• Human Services
• Youth & Education

Arts & Culture Grant Program

Our Arts & Culture Grant Program will consider proposals that strengthen the arts and culture sector to serve all individuals and communities across the East Metro and Greater Minnesota.

The Foundation believes that all peoples, their cultures, and their art contribute to the meaning and understanding of our humanity and should be honored and celebrated.

Priority will be given to arts and culture organizations that seek to amplify narratives that address challenges facing communities experiencing marginalization (e.g., BIPOC communities, people with disabilities, low-income communities, LGBTQIA+ communities, formerly incarcerated communities and more) through the arts. Additional focus will be on organizations that play integral roles in the health, wellness and vitality of their communities.

Grant Details

Grant amounts will be $100,000 per year for a five-year grant period, for total grant amounts of $500,000 per grantee

In 2026, up to $1,000,000 is available for this grant program, and we anticipate awarding approximately 10 grants

Democracy Grant Program 

Our Democracy Grant Program will consider proposals that address one or more of the following:

• Organizing across issues (e.g., economic justice, climate justice) that builds power and strengthens democratic participation and/or works to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communities
• Narrative infrastructure and storytelling that expands civic voice and dialogue toward an equitable democracy and a just Minnesota
• Infrastructure and institution building that expands our movement landscape, strengthens leaders and equips our changemaking ecosystem for lasting power-building

We understand this work of realizing and strengthening our democracy manifests across issues. We also understand that organizing leverages various strategies required to shape political agendas and social conditions for long-term change include strengthening narrative infrastructure, organizing resources, increasing democratic participation, and building new institutions.

Organizing that works to change the material conditions of communities will both fortify our civic infrastructure and strengthen the democratic participation of communities across the state. Efforts grounded in strong issue-based campaigns, the defense of democratic institutions, leadership development that brings new leaders into the fold, and an orientation of institution building all lay the groundwork for long-term change.

Funded work could include any of the following and more:

• Cross-issue organizing around topics of economic justice, public safety, environment/climate, LGBTQIA+ rights, racial justice, immigration, Indigenous governance and sovereignty, civic engagement working to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communities
• Organizing strategies that expand base-building and grow new constituencies to build a bigger “we”
• Organizing that builds narrative infrastructure and power to shape storytelling and expand civic discourse for a just Minnesota

Grant Details

Grant amounts will be $100,000 per year for a five-year grant period, for total grant amounts of $500,000 per grantee

In 2026, up to $2,000,000 is available for this grant program, and we anticipate awarding approximately 20 grants

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Butler Family Foundation's Community Grants Program offers two-year grants focusing on arts accessibility in the Twin Cities. It supports 501(c)(3) organizations that provide musical instruction and access to visual arts for low-income residents. With minimum grant sizes of $30,000 for general support or $20,000 for specific projects, this initiative aims to enhance community engagement in the arts, ensuring that diverse audiences can participate in cultural experiences.

The PLTW Gateway program, in partnership with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by supporting schools in eligible counties to implement PLTW Gateway units. With a total grant of $20,000, schools are encouraged to offer at least one unit per academic year, fostering real-world skills and engagement in STEM fields. This initiative seeks to increase access and participation in high-quality STEM learning experiences, ultimately preparing students for future careers.

The PLTW Gateway program, in collaboration with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to Project Lead The Way initiatives in eligible communities. By providing grants for program expansion, the initiative encourages schools to implement new PLTW units and train teachers, empowering students with essential skills for future careers. This partnership seeks to inspire a new generation of learners through hands-on, real-world challenges, thereby fostering greater participation in STEM fields across various regions.

Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.

The North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship aims to empower Black-led cooperatives by reconnecting them with their historical roots in cooperative economics. This seven-month program encourages participants to reclaim the legacy of Black economic cooperation, offering training in governance, conflict resolution, and cooperative skills. With a focus on community building and collective care, the fellowship includes stipends and support for creating cooperative economic projects, fostering a vision of self-governance and shared prosperity among Black communities.