Best Grants for Seniors in Minnesota

Minnesota Department of Human Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – Counties, Tribes, non-profit and for-profit providers – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS Vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities.

Request for Proposals for Grantees to Develop and/or Provide Services for Older Minnesotans to Live in Community – Live Well at Home Grants

Objective of RFP

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Aging and Adult Services Division (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to develop and/or provide services for older Minnesotans to live and age in the community of their choice. The STATE aims to improve their community’s capacity to develop, strengthen, integrate, and maintain culturally competent home and community-based services (HCBS) for individuals aged 65 and older who are at-risk of long-term nursing facility use and/or spending down into Medical Assistance eligibility. Proposals may include services that support solo agers, family, friends, and neighbors’ caregiving.

The Live Well at Home℠ program aims “to help older adults live well at home by focusing strategic investments to prepare Minnesotans for 2030.” The grants in this RFP are intended to stimulate innovation by providing one-time, start-up funds to test new approaches in housing and HCBS development, and to develop and support core HCBS providers.

The Esther Tomljanovich Strategic Initiatives grant from the Medica Foundation supports transformative projects aimed at advancing health equity. With a funding capacity of up to $200,000 over two to three years, the initiative focuses on innovative proposals in healthcare workforce development, women's health, aging services, dental programs, and housing stability. Grantees are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes and foster collaboration within their communities, emphasizing the importance of addressing unique health needs.

The Primary Care Residency Expansion Grant Program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1506, aims to establish new primary care residency programs and train eligible residents in Minnesota. This initiative addresses the shortage of primary care physicians, enhancing access to healthcare in rural and underserved communities. Approximately $1.9 million will be available this grant cycle, with awards ranging from $75,000 to $400,000 to support these essential programs.

The Rural Primary Care Residency Training Grant Program aims to enhance primary care residency training in rural Minnesota. With funding between $1.5 to $2 million, it supports planning, accreditation, and training. Grants of up to $225,000 per resident per year are available for sustainable projects. To qualify, programs must demonstrate ACGME accreditation and provide evidence of resident training. This initiative is vital for strengthening the rural physician workforce and improving healthcare access in underserved areas.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program

1.2 Program Description

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a federally funded grant program of the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The grant is administered through the Minnesota Department of Health in the Supplemental Nutrition Program section of the Child and Family Health division.

CSFP provides a monthly food package of USDA commodity foods to augment the diets of those who are 60 years of age and older, of low income and considered to be at nutritional risk.

Subject to the availability of federal funds, MDH awards grants to qualified local agencies to operate the program in designated geographic service areas within the State.

The National Institute on Aging is announcing a Notice of Funding Opportunity for the Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers (OAICs) award. This initiative aims to establish centers of excellence in geriatrics research and education to enhance the independence of older adults. Applicants are encouraged to identify a research focus that fosters collaboration and education in aging. Though applications are not currently being accepted, this notice allows potential applicants to prepare meaningful projects. The P30 activity code will be utilized.

The Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement is dedicated to enhancing the lives of elderly individuals through targeted support for non-profit organizations. Grants focus on critical areas such as dementia care, wellness programs, and community engagement initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that meet the unique needs of seniors, promoting health and active lifestyles. By funding specific projects rather than general support, the foundation aims to make a meaningful impact on the quality of life for senior citizens.

The Leonard Litz Foundation-Silver Connect Initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for LGBTQ+ older adults by providing grant funding to nonprofit organizations. This program addresses isolation and barriers faced by seniors, particularly those affected by disability, race, or economic hardship. By supporting community-driven models, Silver Connect promotes dignity, safety, and inclusion, ensuring that LGBTQ+ elders have access to necessary resources and affirming services across the Eastern United States.

The John A. Hartford Foundation offers scholarships for the Age-Friendly Health Systems Cohort as part of the AHA Next Generation Leaders Fellowship. This initiative targets healthcare leaders aiming to implement the 4Ms Framework, enhancing care for older adults. Selected fellows will receive a program fee scholarship of $13,995, enabling them to focus on transformation efforts in health systems. This fellowship seeks diverse leaders to address critical healthcare challenges and improve quality, safety, and affordability.

The WACF Community Impact Grant aims to empower local organizations in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, by providing funding between $5,000 and $20,000 for initiatives that address community needs. This grant supports projects focusing on youth development, enhancing community connections, and promoting productive aging. Organizations that demonstrate a commitment to diversity, innovation, and sustainable community impact are encouraged to apply. The foundation prioritizes grants that foster collaboration and improve the quality of life for residents.

The Friends Foundation for the Aging Grant supports innovative and impactful programs aimed at addressing the needs of older adults, particularly within underserved populations. This Quaker foundation prioritizes collaboration and sustainability in its funding efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities focused on enhancing the quality of life for aging individuals. Grants are typically awarded for one year and target organizations that align with the foundation's mission and values.

The Changing Aging (CA) Grant supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing economic opportunities for older adults and combating ageism. Priorities include advancing digital equity and promoting aging in place for marginalized communities. Funded by Next50, the grant encourages collaboration among nonprofits and requires an equity-focused approach to project design. Organizations may apply for up to three years of funding, with no maximum request limit, although a pre-application call is necessary for larger requests.

The JA Community Foundation focuses on funding solutions that address the needs of the Japanese American and broader Asian American communities. They prioritize programs that enhance senior health, promote history, arts, culture, and support youth. Eligible applicants must be registered 501c3 organizations and can apply from all 50 states. However, organizations with open grants cannot submit new applications until their current grants are closed.

The Sauk Centre Area Community Foundation (SCACF) provides grants aimed at fostering positive change in the Sauk Centre area. With a focus on youth, health, civic engagement, culture, and productive aging, the foundation supports initiatives that connect community resources and inspire collaboration. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and schools within the Sauk Centre School District. Grants range from $3,000 to $20,000, with a preference for projects that promote innovation and inclusivity, while not funding political campaigns or religious purposes.

The Retirement Research Foundation (RRF) offers Responsive Grants for advocacy projects that significantly impact older Americans. These grants support initiatives focused on critical policy issues like economic security and health care. RRF aims to fund projects that use strategic efforts to address systemic challenges and encourage partnerships for resource optimization. Organizations must ensure that RRF funds are not used for lobbying activities. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations targeting individuals aged 60 and older.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The RRF Foundation for Aging offers research grants aimed at improving the well-being of older adults and their caregivers. Established in 1950, the foundation has awarded over $239 million to support innovative projects nationwide. Grants are targeted at nonprofit organizations proposing research with immediate implications for adults aged 60 and older, with a focus on practical knowledge and dissemination to impact policy and practice.

The Robert J. Keown Trust, established in 1934, provides financial assistance to needy Christians through grants to charitable organizations. Managed by Wells Fargo Bank N.A., the trust focuses on supporting organizations that benefit residents of Los Angeles County. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. Preference is given to requests aiding needy Christians and elderly women. The trust awards an average of four grants per year, fostering community support and outreach.

The NIA Expanding Research in AD/ADRD Postbaccalaureate Research Education Program aims to enhance the research workforce by providing intensive research experiences for recent graduates. This initiative supports early-stage investigators in Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, addressing a critical shortage of researchers in the field. Participants engage in independent research, mentorship, and professional development, equipping them with skills necessary for advanced degrees and research careers in aging and dementia. The program fosters innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration essential for advancing AD/ADRD research.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The David Kelby Johnson Memorial Foundation offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on sight preservation, children's services, and environmental conservation, primarily in Utah. Established in memory of David Kelby Johnson, who tragically lost his life at a young age, the foundation aims to honor his legacy by supporting impactful charitable initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $100,000, with a commitment to improving communities both locally and globally.

The Transition to Aging Research Award for Predoctoral Students, funded by the National Institute on Aging (NIA), invites exceptional graduate students to pursue aging-related postdoctoral training. This two-phase award supports late-stage doctoral candidates in completing dissertation projects across diverse research areas. It aims to facilitate smooth transitions into competitive aging-focused postdoctoral roles, fostering the development of future investigators in aging research. This initiative is designed to enhance collaboration and impactful research in the field of aging.

The LifeCare Health Care Fund Grants, managed by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, aim to support nonprofit organizations in Roseau County with financial assistance for health-related projects and services. These grants focus on initiatives like diabetes care, cancer support, and wellness programs, promoting better health outcomes in the community. Eligible nonprofit applicants can request funding from various specialized endowment funds to address pressing healthcare needs and enhance community well-being.

The Cigna Group Health Equity Impact Fund aims to reduce health disparities by supporting local nonprofits in Hartford, CT, and St. Louis, MO. With an annual commitment of $3 million, the Fund focuses on enhancing access to culturally appropriate healthcare, transportation, and mental health services. By addressing root causes of health inequities, the Fund empowers communities to improve overall health outcomes and foster sustainable change in underserved areas.

The McKnight Clinical Translational Research Scholarship supports young investigators focusing on cognitive aging and age-related memory loss. Funded by the McKnight Brain Research Foundation, this scholarship offers $65,000 annually for two years, plus an education stipend. Eligible applicants should have completed their PhD or residency within the last five years and conduct their research in accredited U.S. institutions. The award emphasizes rigorous training and aims to foster careers in human cognitive aging research.

The JTMF Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of individuals in need, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with organizations addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges, the foundation supports children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by Catholic values, JTMF aims to empower communities while seeking innovative solutions to societal issues. Organizations that align with these focus areas are encouraged to connect, fostering a collaborative effort towards meaningful impact.

The McKnight Brain Research Foundation Innovator Awards aim to support innovative research in cognitive aging and memory loss, offering two 3-year grants of $750,000 each. Targeted at early-career investigators, the program encourages high-risk, high-gain proposals that explore clinical translational research and the biological mechanisms of cognitive aging. By fostering emerging scientific leaders, the initiative seeks to advance transformative discoveries in this critical area of aging research, enhancing understanding and treatment of age-related cognitive decline.