Best Corporate Grants for Nonprofits 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.

Minnesota Department of Health

Mission: Protecting, maintaining and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

Vision: The vision of MDH is for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy.

Quit Partner™ Ambassadors

The Minnesota Department of Health seeks proposals from community organizations to engage community members and increase knowledge of Quit PartnerTM programs. The goal of this work is to increase knowledge and reach of Quit Partner programs and ultimately reduce commercial tobacco use rates among adults in Minnesota. 

Commercial tobacco products are tobacco products manufactured and sold by the tobacco industry, like cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, and chew. Commercial tobacco is different from traditional or sacred tobacco, also known as Caŋsasa, Asemaa, or Kinnikinnick, and which are used by American Indian communities for sacred purposes.

The Dunkin' Joyful Spaces Grant supports children's hospitals and community health centers in creating joyful environments for pediatric patients. Launched in 2022, this initiative helps fund play areas, healing gardens, and other kid-friendly spaces, enhancing the hospital experience. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $65,000 annually, with a maximum of $150,000 over three years. This opportunity encourages creativity in designing spaces that provide comfort and joy to children and their families during hospital stays.

The Mid-Career Professional Development Grant is designed for Minnesota-based mid-career artists aiming to enhance their public art careers. This funding supports project development and various professional activities, including residencies, apprenticeships, and skill development. Applicants must have lived in Minnesota for at least 12 of the last 24 months, and their projects must be original and not replicate previous work. This grant fosters creativity and professional growth in the public art sector.

The Early-Career Artist Research & Development Grant supports Minnesota-based early-career artists engaged in public art research and development. This funding aims to amplify diverse artistic voices, particularly from BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and rural communities. Grants of $2,500 each can be used for activities like planning and community dialogues related to public art projects. Applicants must demonstrate originality and reside in Minnesota, ensuring all projects are freely accessible to the community.

PFund Foundation

PFund Foundation strengthens LGBTQ+ communities across the Upper Midwest through strategic grantmaking, scholarships, leadership development, and inspiring giving.

Community Grants

PFund Community Grants are for LGBTQ+ serving nonprofits in the Upper Midwest. These grants range from $1,000-$20,000+ and include organizational membership to the PFund Leadership Institute, a monthly cohort based learning and networking opportunity.

The Ashland County Wildlife Conservation League David McClure Memorial Scholarship supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools and alternative education programs pursuing a degree in wildlife-related fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be accepted into accredited colleges or vocational programs. This scholarship fosters educational growth while promoting conservation efforts, reflecting the commitment of the Ashland County Community Foundation to enhance community development and support future leaders in wildlife conservation.

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 Loft Mentor Series supports twelve early career writers in Minnesota to collaborate with eight acclaimed mentors in poetry and prose. This prestigious program, established in 1979, offers a year of intensive workshops and individual guidance, culminating in public readings. Funded by the Jerome Foundation and NEA, fellows receive $2,800 to assist with program costs, ensuring they can focus on refining their craft and connecting with the literary community.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The UMN Graduate School offers Research Travel Requests (RTR) for graduate students aiming to enhance their thesis or dissertation through research travel. Award amounts vary: up to $3,000 for doctoral candidates, $1,500 for pre-candidates, and $500 for master’s students. Applications are reviewed monthly from October to April, with a lottery system if demand exceeds funding. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a research-based graduate program and meet specific travel criteria.

The UMN Graduate School offers Professional Development Funding to support graduate students engaged in opportunities that enhance their academic pursuits. Eligible activities include attending workshops, conferences, or learning new techniques. Funding amounts vary based on travel distance, with a maximum of $500 available. Applicants must be enrolled in research-based graduate programs and in good standing. This funding is available from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026, with applications accepted monthly.

The Medical Education and Research Cost (MERC) Grant Program supports clinical medical education in Minnesota, addressing funding challenges faced by teaching facilities. Established in 1996, the program allocates $59 million in the current fiscal year through a grant formula, with minimum awards starting at $5,000. Applications must be submitted by sponsoring institutions on behalf of clinical training sites, ensuring students gain essential clinical experience in diverse healthcare settings.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The George Family Foundation focuses on Whole-Person Health and Wellbeing, emphasizing the importance of nurturing mind, body, spirit, and community. The foundation seeks to empower individuals and promote healthcare choice by funding community-based initiatives and select medical systems. Their funding priorities include enhancing access to whole-person care for diverse populations and supporting professional training programs for practitioners, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

The Medical Education and Research Cost (MERC) Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Health, supports clinical medical education in Minnesota. With $59 million allocated for the current fiscal year, the program provides funding to sponsoring institutions, such as hospitals and schools, which are responsible for clinical education programs. The minimum grant award is $5,000, aimed at addressing the financial challenges faced by teaching facilities in a competitive healthcare market.

The University of Minnesota's Co-Sponsorship Grants Program offers funding up to $2,000 to support events that enhance training for graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. Eligible activities must align with the Graduate School's mission and be accessible to students across various colleges. Preference is given to initiatives demonstrating potential for sustainable impact. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, so timely submission is crucial for consideration.

The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant Program supports innovative research and demonstrations in sustainable agriculture. It prioritizes projects that enhance profitability, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Eligible projects include practices such as conservation tillage, integrated pest management, and energy-efficient farming. The program encourages participation from farmers and historically underserved communities, aiming to foster diverse agricultural practices and improve marketing opportunities while addressing conservation and profitability.

The AGRI Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Certification Cost Share Grant Program assists Minnesota growers and handlers in implementing essential food safety measures. Funded by the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation Fund, this program offers reimbursement of up to 75% of GAP/GHP certification costs, with a maximum of $2,500. Eligible applicants must be certified by an accredited body between May 16, 2023, and May 15, 2024, and located 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.

Technical Assistance Navigating Culturally Specific Substance Use and Recovery Programs

Scope of Work

The purpose of the RFP is for technical assistance navigating culturally specific and responsive SUD programs. STATE has identified three categories of activities to meet this goal:

• Licensure, Minnesota Health Care Program (MHCP) Enrollment, and Rate Enhancement: The purpose of this category is to support culturally specific or culturally responsive SUD programs in developing long-term sustainability through obtaining licensure, enrolling in MHCP, or applying for the Medical Assistance (MA) Rate Enhancement as a Culturally Specific or Culturally Responsive Program.

• Grant Writing and Management: The purpose of this category is to increase the knowledge, skills, and capacity of culturally specific or culturally responsive programs to apply for, receive, and successfully manage grant funding from the STATE.

• Technical Assistance and Training: The purpose of this category is to provide an opportunity for culturally specific or culturally responsive SUD programs to support each other in a consulting or training capacity. 

PFund Foundation supports LGBTQ+ communities in the Upper Midwest by providing event sponsorship funding for various gatherings, including fundraisers and pride festivals. Organizations eligible for funding must align with the foundation's mission, serve LGBTQ+ individuals, and be registered as 501c3 nonprofit entities. Events must be located within the foundation's service area and be scheduled at least 60 days in advance. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and support.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.

The Community Identity and Heritage Grant, administered by the Minnesota Humanities Center, allocates $6,299,000 to support projects that celebrate and teach the diverse cultures of Minnesota. This funding opportunity is open to individuals and organizations, with grants up to $300,000 available. It aims to enhance cultural heritage work for historically underrepresented communities, including Indigenous groups and recent immigrants. All funds must be utilized for new initiatives, ensuring the continuation and growth of Minnesota's rich cultural landscape.

Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program

The Minnesota Department of Education has funding available under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77, for grants under the Special Education Teacher (SPED) Pathway Program to develop trained and licensed Tier 3 or Tier 4 special education teachers.

Grant recipients must prioritize using grant funds to support participants who are employed by the grant recipient (or any joint applicants) as Tier 1 or Tier 2 licensed special education teachers. If funding is available, the funds may also be used to support other employees who wish to become special education teachers and who demonstrate a willingness to enter the field after completing the program.

Funding

This grant opportunity estimates $9,825,000 available to fund 10-20 grants under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 122A.77. Most grants will not exceed $750,000 per grant request; however, there is no maximum grant award.

For larger applicants (including joint applicants), funding needs may exceed the suggested $750,000 maximum amount. For smaller applicants (less than 1,000 students) funding needs are generally under less than $250,000.

Federal Charter Schools Program (CSP) Grant

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) received a grant from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to increase charter school quality and authorizer accountability. The three objectives identified in MDE’s application to ED are designed to support a landscape of high-quality/high-performing charter schools that all parents from all communities can access by making informed decisions about the best education choices for their children through empowered access to information.

Ethnic Studies 5-12 Courses: Community-Centered Knowledge Competitive Grant

Under Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 120B.251, legislation passed requiring all districts and charters to offer ethnic studies, including offering a high school ethnic studies course and integrated K-8 ethnic studies instruction. The purpose of the grant is to support districts and charters in the development, evaluation, and implementation of new 5-12 ethnic studies courses.

Minnesota School Districts, Charter Schools, Tribally Controlled Schools, Intermediate School Districts, and Cooperative Units are eligible for funding. Fiscal Year 2025 Ethnic Studies grant recipients are not eligible to apply for this round of funding.

All proposed grant projects must align with Minnesota’s definition of ethnic studies as stated in Minnesota Statutes 2025, section 120B.25.

The grant will provide three levels of support:

• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support inter-district, co-op, or tribal school collaborations to develop new ethnic studies courses, which could include charter schools and their geographic district LEA.
• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support district-level applicants to develop new ethnic studies courses, including charter and tribal schools which are independent LEAs.
• Grant requests of up to $50,000 to support school-level applicants to develop new ethnic studies courses, which could support individual or teams of educators working with their building administration.

Total amount available: approximately $665,000.00 per fiscal year

Maximum grant request amount: $50,000.00

The Medical Education and Research Cost (MERC) Grant Program, initiated by the Minnesota Department of Health, supports clinical medical education across Minnesota. Established in 1996, this program addresses funding gaps for teaching facilities that face challenges in covering overhead costs not reimbursed by standard mechanisms. By providing essential funding, MERC helps sustain high-quality medical training and education, ensuring that Minnesota continues to cultivate skilled healthcare professionals.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.