Best Diversity Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Development Partnership Grants, offered by the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation, fund initiatives aimed at fostering long-term economic growth in northeastern Minnesota. Applications are open from July 1, 2025, until May 29, 2026, or until funds are allocated. These grants support research, planning, and education projects that align with community development goals, helping to strengthen the region's economy and enhance local resources.

The Huntington Impact Investment Philanthropy Grant Program aims to strengthen communities by supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance self-sufficiency and social equality. With a focus on areas such as community revitalization, affordable housing, and economic development, the program prioritizes initiatives that serve low- and moderate-income individuals. Organizations with IRS tax-exempt status can apply for funding to address critical community needs, fostering a more equitable environment for all.

The Minnesota Department of Education is offering grants for remodeling, constructing, or repurposing gender-neutral single-user restrooms. This initiative supports safe and healthy school environments, aiming for improved accessibility and student health. Grant amounts can reach up to $150,000, with a maximum of $75,000 allocated per site. At least 80% of funds must be dedicated to restroom projects, while 20% may be used for engagement and implementation activities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to student safety.

The Artist Equity Grant, offered by the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, provides up to $4,000 to individual artists from underrepresented groups, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA2+, and those with disabilities. This initiative aims to promote artistic growth and amplify diverse voices through project funding. Eligible projects may encompass various artistic endeavors such as performances, exhibitions, and educational opportunities, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape that benefits all communities.

The Vibrant & Equitable Communities Grant by The McKnight Foundation aims to foster shared prosperity in Minnesota through strategies like economic mobility, community wealth building, fair housing, and democratic participation. This grant supports organizations that enhance employment opportunities for underrepresented communities, strengthen community-focused financial institutions, and promote equitable access to housing and civic engagement. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with a focus on systemic improvements for individuals and communities.

The Minnesota Youth at Work Competitive Grant supports workforce development for economically disadvantaged youth aged 14-24. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), it prioritizes programs that provide career education, serve under-represented communities, and assist youth with disabilities. Applicants can request up to $850,000 annually, with potential for continued funding based on performance in the first year.

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.

The Minnesota Department of Education is offering the Concurrent Enrollment Introduction to Teaching Grant to enhance the teacher workforce by funding programs under the Postsecondary Education Options (PSEO). This initiative aims to develop and expand dual-credit courses in education for high school students, particularly focusing on American Indian and students of color, thus promoting diversity and inclusion in teaching careers across Minnesota.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.