Best Grants for Nonprofits Serving Disabled in Minnesota

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services programs in Minnesota may be eligible for support to address social problems in new ways. Creag Foundation supports creative approaches across areas like health, community development, and social services; interested groups can submit a letter of inquiry for invitation-only grant consideration.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth through health, education, development, or welfare programs in Minnesota may be eligible for funding up to US $15,000. The Dan Paul Foundation supports child welfare, early childhood development, poverty and homelessness services, environmental education, and related initiatives, which can include programs for children and youth with disabilities.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Minnesota nonprofits hosting community events, fundraisers, or special activities can access funding through Old National Bank to support initiatives that improve quality of life. Sponsorships prioritize programs serving underrepresented groups and low-to-moderate income communities, including disability-focused services, within eligible Minnesota counties where Old National operates.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Minnesota nonprofits providing disability care and services, especially for children with disabilities, may be eligible for funding to support health, education, and humanitarian programs. Semnani Family Foundation supports organizations serving marginalized communities in the U.S. and abroad, including work in healthcare access, pediatrics, disabilities, and related human and social services.

Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help Minnesota 501(c)(3) organizations fund charitable, scientific, medical, or educational work in the U.S. Eligible nonprofits must use awarded funds within the country and be tax-exempt under federal and, when applicable, California law. Minnesota organizations serving people with disabilities through these fields may be eligible.

The Initiative Foundation's Emerging Needs Grants offer vital support to nonprofits in Central Minnesota facing unexpected challenges. These grants enable organizations to stabilize and adapt, ensuring they continue to meet pressing community needs. With a focus on immediate impact, the funding is available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in the region, allowing them to address service gaps and enhance their operations during crises.

IRS-qualified nonprofit organizations in Minnesota serving people with disabilities can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support community-based programs and services. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation funds disability care and services alongside youth, senior, cultural, educational, environmental, and health initiatives across the U.S., with an emphasis on projects where modest grants have big impact.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, tribal nations, schools, and local agencies in Minnesota’s Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis counties can seek more than US $10,000 for general operating or program support, including disability care and services. With a mission to help communities thrive, Northland Foundation prioritizes basic needs, health and wellbeing, and inclusive, equity-focused programs.

With a mission to strengthen communities, Ameriprise Financial provides Minnesota nonprofits with funding for basic needs, community vitality, and volunteer-driven programs. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations serving adults and families through housing, hunger relief, financial literacy, employment, and community development may be eligible, with preference for strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement and measurable outcomes.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Minnesota hospitals, clinics, nursing facilities, and home care providers can seek funding to establish or expand secondary and postsecondary summer health care internship programs. Focused on health workforce development, the Minnesota Department of Health program may benefit nonprofits serving disabled Minnesotans by creating internship opportunities that improve access to care for diverse populations. Awards up to US $300,000.

Nonprofit organizations, government entities, educational institutions, and fiscally sponsored groups in Minnesota can apply for The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation’s Arts & Culture Grant Program; awards Up to US $500,000 for multi-year arts and culture initiatives. Disability-serving organizations, including those supporting BIPOC, low-income, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities, may be especially competitive.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Minnesota nonprofits with 501(c)(3) public charity status can access funding for safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability projects that primarily benefit a Union Pacific–served community. Organizations serving disabled residents through direct services, youth development, basic needs, or job readiness may be eligible for Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Local Grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $30,000.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving people in the Southern U.S. can seek funding for programs in areas like children and families, education, medical assistance, poverty relief, and related services. Robinson Foundation supports single-year projects from established charities; Minnesota disability nonprofits may be eligible only if their work serves communities below the Mason-Dixon line.

Nonprofit organizations in Minnesota with strong, replicable community partnerships may be eligible for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award, which honors collaborative efforts addressing significant social issues. Programs serving people with disabilities, including children with disabilities, can apply if they exemplify effective, model public–private or cross-sector collaboration in the U.S.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant, including those with physical or mental disabilities, can apply for Gupta Family Foundation grants of US $5,000 - US $250,000. Grants from Gupta Family Foundation help smaller organizations in countries such as the U.S. expand human and social services, poverty alleviation, disability care, and disaster relief programs.

Nonprofits, government entities, tribal governments, and churches in northeastern Minnesota and nearby Wisconsin can seek funding for basic needs or animal welfare projects, including those serving people with disabilities. Focused on low-income and disadvantaged residents, the Boreal Waters Community Foundation’s Atkins Memorial Fund offers US $1,000 - US $5,000 for special projects, equipment, or general operating support.

Early-career individual artists in Minnesota can receive $2,500 for public art research, planning, and development activities that lead to freely accessible work. With a mission to support diverse public art practice, Forecast Public Art provides Minnesota artists with funding that may benefit projects engaging disabled community members through inclusive, community-centered art experiences.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Minnesota nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving people with complex intellectual and physical disabilities can access funding through CommunityGiving for client-focused services and equipment, with awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000. Projects must benefit residents of Benton, Stearns, Sherburne, and nearby Kimball or Watkins communities and prioritize direct client impact over general operations.

About Us

Investing in the Future

We invest in innovative community-based, community-led solutions to ensure safety, opportunity and pathways to economic security for women, girls, gender-expansive people and families across Minnesota.

Our Mission

The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota invests in ending systemic inequities and driving innovation for gender and racial justice.

Sponsorship Request Process

The Women’s Foundation of Minnesota (WFM) invests in ending systemic inequities and driving innovation for gender and racial justice. The WFM sponsorship grant is a limited fund dedicated to supporting events, projects, and/or convenings of leaders and communities working to advance gender and racial equity through WFM’s impact areas.

The Women’s Foundation of MN provides sponsorship grants between $1,000-$5,000.