Best Grants for Education Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Professional Development Grant supports licensed educators, education support professionals, and higher education faculty in enhancing their skills in equity and inclusion practices. Grants are available for individual members and groups, with funding of up to $2,000 per person for ESPs and teachers, and $3,000 for higher education faculty. Applicants must be active, dues-paying members of Education Minnesota, and the program emphasizes sharing new skills with colleagues.

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Impact Grant promotes innovative practices focused on equity and inclusion in education. By supporting educators and collaborative projects with local nonprofits and unions, the Foundation aims to drive long-lasting change in teaching and learning policies. Grants are awarded annually for theme-based projects, with funding for the second year contingent upon demonstrated progress. This initiative empowers active Education Minnesota members to create impactful educational experiences for students.

The Classroom-Focused Project Grants support licensed educators in enhancing their teaching practices and student outcomes, with funding up to $3,000 for innovative projects. This opportunity is designed for both first-time applicants and previous recipients looking to build on their past successes. Eligible applicants must be active members of Education Minnesota and demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion in their projects. Grants are awarded annually, emphasizing measurable results and collaborative efforts.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Ralph K. Morris Foundation offers Cooperative Leadership Sponsorships to support training and professional development for emerging leaders, especially from rural areas. The program adapts to changing needs by providing financial assistance for cooperative education events and scholarships. Priority is given to organizations in Minnesota and Wisconsin, encouraging a collaborative approach to leadership development in communities. This initiative aims to foster the future of cooperatives through accessible education and training opportunities.

The Rural Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to foster collaboration among rural communities in areas like economic development and education. Emphasizing community involvement, it encourages diverse participation and measurable outcomes within 18 months. Grants of up to $25,000 for implementation or $5,000 for planning are available, targeting nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states. This initiative seeks to empower communities to achieve positive change through active engagement and support.

The Nonexclusionary Discipline (NED) funding, provided by the Minnesota Department of Education for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, aims to support educational institutions in implementing professional learning plans for staff. This initiative focuses on adopting nonexclusionary discipline practices that foster respect and trust among students, ensuring they remain engaged and in the classroom. Eligible entities include school districts, charter schools, and cooperative units, enhancing the educational environment across Minnesota.

The Archie D & Bertha H Walker Foundation supports nonprofits addressing systemic racism and promoting arts. Established in 1953, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare by funding organizations that dismantle barriers to equity and foster artistic expression. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status and operate within specified counties in the Minnesota Twin Cities area. The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals, focusing instead on impactful community engagement.

The Evelyn Lenander Education Scholarship, established in 1989, supports college students majoring in elementary education at Minnesota institutions. Funded by CommunityGiving, the scholarship honors Evelyn Lenander, a dedicated teacher who believed in nurturing future educators. Applicants must be Minnesota residents, enrolled in their 3rd or 4th year of college, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This initiative aims to empower local communities by investing in the next generation of educators.

The Peterson-Schaubach Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes exceptional contributions from Education Minnesota leaders who embody the organization's principles. This prestigious award is open for nominations annually, highlighting individuals who have significantly impacted public education through active membership and leadership. The nomination process is initiated by the Education Minnesota President, with timelines announced to the Governing Board. This award reflects the commitment to members, the profession, and the values of education and social justice.

The Education Support Professional of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by education support professionals in Minnesota. Annually, Education Minnesota honors an individual who exemplifies dedication and excellence in their role. Nominations for the 2025-26 award are now open, inviting submissions from colleagues and community members. The recipient will receive a $1,200 honorarium, a choice of technology, and an expense-paid trip to a national conference, celebrating their impactful work within the educational community.

The MAGS Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes graduate students at the University of Minnesota who demonstrate exceptional teaching and mentoring skills. One award is designated for a doctoral student and another for a master’s student, highlighting the significance of teaching excellence in graduate education. Eligible candidates must hold a teaching appointment during the 2025 calendar year. This prestigious award aims to prepare graduate students for future roles as educators in higher education.

The Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award honors outstanding educators who inspire students and elevate the teaching profession. Nominations for 2026 are now open, inviting communities to recognize exceptional teachers who embody dedication and excellence. The award will be presented on May 3, 2026, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. This prestigious recognition not only celebrates local talent but also positions the winner as Minnesota’s representative for the National Teacher of the Year.

The Russell Family Foundation Grant, established in 2007 in Duluth, Minnesota, supports charitable causes in the areas of arts, education, environment, health, human services, public benefit, and religion. This private foundation awards grants exclusively to organizations that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, with a focus on those primarily located in Duluth. Their mission emphasizes fostering community welfare through diverse initiatives.

The Education Minnesota Human Rights Award honors members who have championed human and civil rights within educational settings. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to equality and inclusivity, whether through direct action, advocacy, or educational initiatives. By nominating deserving members, you help celebrate their commitment to fostering a supportive and equitable environment for all students and educators. Nominations are accepted annually, with a deadline in January.

The W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) organizations in Central Iowa, SW Minnesota, and Eastern Nebraska. With a focus on health, community betterment, youth development, education, and food insecurity, grants are awarded twice a year. There are no limitations on request sizes, but only one grant per organization is accepted annually. Funding decisions prioritize organizations with a proven track record of efficiency and success in serving their communities.

The We Are One Solidarity Award, presented by Education Minnesota, recognizes local unions or active members demonstrating significant leadership in various areas such as organizing campaigns and advocating for workers' rights. This annual award highlights the importance of collaboration among union members and aims to strengthen relationships across unions. Nominations can be submitted by any Education Minnesota member, emphasizing the value of collective effort in supporting public education.

The National Board Certified Teachers Scholarship, funded by the Education Minnesota Foundation, aims to support K-12 educators pursuing National Board Certification. Each year, eligible Education Minnesota members can receive scholarships up to $1,000 to cover assessment fees. This initiative particularly encourages first-time applicants while also allowing those maintaining certification to apply. Scholarships are awarded annually, and recipients must provide proof of payment for the certification process to access their funds.

The James Madison Graduate Fellowship supports U.S. citizens pursuing master's degrees focused on the Constitution, enhancing their constitutional knowledge for teaching. Fellows are required to teach American history, government, or civics at the secondary level for one year per funding year. Financially, the fellowship awards up to $24,000, covering tuition and fees, and must be repaid if fellowship conditions are unmet. This program ensures future educators embody constitutional principles in their teaching.

The Edward and Wanda Jordan Family Foundation Grant aims to support education, scientific research, and spiritual ministries through voluntary grants. Focused on enhancing the welfare and quality of life for children and youth, this foundation perpetuates the charitable intentions of the Jordan family. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that align with these values and objectives, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

The Howe Foundation, established by Thomas E. Howe in Clark County, Nevada, supports U.S. charitable organizations focused on education, medical advancements, and game hunters associations. Grants are administered by Wells Fargo Bank, with applications reviewed annually in September. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt under the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for meaningful community initiatives.

The Andrew Burgin Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and focuses on charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. With grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and an annual budget of approximately $55,000, the trust primarily serves Alabama organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, but must meet specific deadlines for review. This grant offers opportunities across diverse areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.

The M J Murdock Charitable Trust offers the Strategic Projects: Program & Staff Grants to support nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. These grants focus on capacity-building for mission-driven projects and infrastructure investments. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to community flourishing, with funding available for new programs or expansion of existing ones. The Trust prioritizes initiatives that align with its strategic goals, fostering sustainable nonprofit growth and impact in the region.