Best Mille Lacs County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Teiger Foundation Single Project Grant supports innovative visual arts projects at non-profit exhibition spaces with annual budgets exceeding $3 million. Focused on curatorial practices, the grant encourages experimentation and creativity, aiming to drive positive structural change in contemporary art. Eligible expenses include artist fees, publication costs, and coalition-building efforts. The next Call for Proposals opens in Fall 2026, with funding of up to $150,000 available for selected projects.

The Teiger Foundation Programming Grant supports innovative visual arts projects led by curators at smaller non-profit organizations with budgets under $3.5 million. Grants of up to $150,000 are available for three years, funding development, realization, and documentation of exhibitions and related programs. The foundation emphasizes community engagement, racial justice, and artistic experimentation while encouraging collaboration with other cultural institutions. Note: The next Call for Proposals opens in Fall 2026.

The Teiger Foundation's Hosting Grant provides up to $75,000 for US-based curators or artistic directors to present contemporary visual art exhibitions that originated in different contexts. This grant encourages resource-sharing and collective learning, allowing institutions to expand their programming sustainably. It prioritizes projects affiliated with established non-profits, fostering community-building and positive change in the field of visual art while addressing issues of racial justice and climate crisis.

The Teiger Foundation's Curatorial Research and Development Grant offers support for innovative curatorial practices within the contemporary visual arts sector. Designed to address gaps in funding, this grant provides up to $50,000 for curatorial research projects, including travel and collaborative investigations. It emphasizes the importance of experimentation and creativity while aligning with values of racial justice and environmental sustainability. The next Call for Proposals will open in Fall 2026, with funding opportunities available to U.S.-based curators.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
• Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Princess Grace Awards support early career artists in theater, dance, and film with unrestricted cash grants of $15,000. Open to U.S.-based artists, the awards recognize both creative generators and performance-based creatives. Nominations are required from non-profit organizations or previous award winners, ensuring a robust evaluation of artistic merit. With a focus on nurturing talent, the Princess Grace Foundation honors the legacy of Princess Grace of Monaco by fostering the next generation of artists.

The Indian Health Grant Program aims to provide essential clinical health services, including preventive, medical, dental, and mental health care, to American Indian individuals residing off reservations. Funded by the Minnesota Department of Health, up to $174,000 is available annually through a competitive process for a two-year project period from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026, with no match requirement necessary.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports research in algebraic topology, covering areas such as homotopy theory, cohomology, and K-theory. It encourages exploration of topological manifolds, knots, and geometric group theory. Researchers can delve into differential topology and general topology, contributing to fundamental advancements in mathematics. This funding opportunity is ideal for those seeking to push the boundaries of knowledge in these complex and essential fields.

The Robert Mapplethorpe Foundation, established in 1988, supports photography programs at museums and public institutions. It promotes photography's recognition alongside other art forms and contributes to HIV/AIDS medical research. Notably, it has funded major galleries and initiatives, donating significant collections to renowned museums. The Foundation aids curators in developing photography exhibitions and provides financial support for acquisitions, exhibitions, and publications, ensuring Mapplethorpe's artistic legacy endures.

The Venturous Capital Grants aim to empower small and medium-sized not-for-profit theaters to produce bold and experimental new plays. Grants range from $5,000 to $35,000, covering extraordinary costs that enable productions to thrive. The program supports text-based, author-driven works that are ambitious, challenging, and innovative, while emphasizing the importance of playwright compensation and adhering to AEA standards. This initiative fosters creativity and helps overcome financial barriers in theater production.

The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

The NewSchools: Learning Solutions Grant Program aims to empower K-8 students by enhancing their literacy and numeracy skills, crucial for overcoming educational challenges exacerbated by the pandemic. With a focus on innovative learning solutions, the program seeks to fund early-stage ideas that engage students and support educators. By leveraging research and technology, including generative AI, it aims to create equitable educational opportunities, fostering a brighter future for all students.

The ECRAC Resiliency Grant for Arts Organizations provides funding of up to $600 for artists and organizations to support their projects affected by the pandemic and racial disparities. This grant is available until June 30, 2026, or until funds are depleted, and is open to past, current, or new grantees. Eligible projects can include various art forms such as performance, dance, photography, and more, as long as they comply with public health guidelines.

The PRISM Fund Grant, offered by PFund Foundation, aims to enhance equity within LGBTQ+ communities in the upper Midwest. It focuses on supporting rural LGBTQ+ organizations through grants, training, and collaboration. The program prioritizes communities disproportionately affected by discrimination, such as queer people of color, gender-expansive individuals, and LGBTQ+ residents of North and South Dakota. By addressing unique regional challenges, the PRISM Fund fosters resilience and connectivity among these underserved populations.

The Riding for Focus Grants program supports public middle schools serving low-income students, providing them with bicycles, helmets, and educational resources to promote cycling. Through this program, schools can enhance their students' cognitive, physical, and socio-emotional well-being. The curriculum consists of 14 lessons focused on rider safety and skills, designed to be delivered over 6-8 weeks. Eligible schools can apply for grants or purchase the program to access these invaluable resources.

The Transformational Partnerships Fund offers catalytic grants of up to $100,000 to support partnerships among degree-granting institutions, focusing on student-centered solutions. These grants aim to explore innovative collaborations that enhance stability and success for students, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Eligible institutions must demonstrate a commitment to transformational partnerships, with priority given to those serving diverse populations and improving educational outcomes. Interested applicants can find more information on the grant process and criteria.

The Rocky Talkie Search and Rescue Award, sponsored by the American Alpine Club, provides $75,000 annually to support underfunded Search and Rescue (SAR) teams in the U.S. and Canada. The initiative aims to enhance community awareness of the vital contributions made by volunteer SAR members. Grants include $10,000 for five selected teams and a special $25,000 award for the Featured Rescue of the Year, spotlighting exceptional volunteer-led rescue operations and their impact on mountain safety.

The Joint DMS/NIGMS Initiative aims to enhance research at the intersection of mathematical and biological sciences, fostering collaborations and innovative activities. Funded by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, this program offers two funding tracks: Track 1 supports projects with budgets up to $600,000 for three years, while Track 2 accommodates budgets up to $1,200,000 for three to four years. This initiative addresses critical questions in the biological and biomedical fields.

The Meinders Retail Florist Education Grant Fund, established in September 2021 by Herman and LaDonna Meinders, aims to support the floral industry by providing grants for reduced or free registration fees to industry events. With an initial contribution exceeding $500,000, the fund promotes educational initiatives that attract young talent and address industry challenges. Managed by the AFE Education Committee, it is expected to distribute over $10,000 in its first year, ensuring sustainable support for vital educational programs.

The Communities Outreach Programme by the Islamic Development Bank aims to enhance the socio-economic development of Muslim minority communities in non-member countries. Established in 1981, it focuses on education, health, and capacity building to empower these communities. The programme supports initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and youth development, ensuring inclusive growth. By addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, it strives to improve living conditions and promote productivity, ultimately contributing to sustainable development in diverse regions.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, supported by the National Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to promote tree planting and green spaces on campus. This initiative fosters community engagement, enhances mental health, and contributes to environmental sustainability. By meeting five key standards, institutions can earn recognition, inspiring pride and commitment to environmental stewardship among students and staff alike. Join the movement to create healthier, more beautiful campuses that benefit both people and the planet.

The Community Homeownership Impact Fund, managed by the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, aims to enhance affordable housing in Minnesota by funding developers and administrators of single-family, owner-occupied homes. This program focuses on increasing the housing supply while ensuring safety and habitability. It offers interim loans, deferred forgivable loans, and grants to bridge financial gaps. Eligible applicants include cities, tribes, and nonprofits, all working towards improving housing accessibility and supporting community development.

The Veterans Cemetery Grants program, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, provides financial assistance to establish, expand, and improve Veterans cemeteries across the United States. With over $910 million awarded, this initiative ensures that state and tribal governments can maintain these sacred sites, supporting the interment of Veterans and their eligible family members. Grants cover up to 100% of project costs, reinforcing the commitment to honor those who served.

The Clinical Dental Education Innovation Grant, awarded by the Minnesota Department of Health, aims to enhance dental training opportunities for underserved populations. This grant supports accredited institutions and clinical training sites in Minnesota to expand successful programs or develop new initiatives. It ensures that no service is denied due to inability to pay, thereby promoting access to essential dental care. Eligible applicants must be accredited training providers, and funds are strictly for operational costs related to approved programs.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is providing funding to implement Source Water Protection (SWP) plans, including approved wellhead protection and surface water intake protection plans. This initiative, funded by Clean Water Fund appropriations, aims to assist Public Water Suppliers (PWSs) in executing their SWP measures effectively. Grants will also be available for PWSs without existing SWP plans to enhance water safety and sustainability throughout Minnesota.

The Solidarity Fund Grant, part of the Black Feminist Fund, aims to empower Black feminist movements by providing essential resources. Acknowledging the historical underfunding of these movements, the fund supports groups led by Black women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals. It focuses on solidarity efforts that foster collaboration and joint campaigns, enabling activists to drive social change. This initiative is crucial for advancing justice, self-determination, and equity within communities, ensuring that Black feminist visions are amplified and sustained.