Best Grants for Charities in Minnesota

The CHS Foundation supports initiatives that benefit the agriculture industry, focusing on 501c3 organizations within specific states. Their funding is aimed at empowering cooperative growth and sustainable practices. Local projects may also be eligible through the CHS Seeds for Stewardship program. However, funding is not available for individuals, sports teams, or religious groups, ensuring that the support remains directed towards community and cooperative development.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

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.

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.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

The Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant supports programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services primarily within the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Established in memory of James B. Linsmayer, the foundation aims to be a strategic partner in these vital areas. Eligible grantees include public charities recognized under IRC guidelines, with no geographic limitations but a preference for local organizations. While start-ups may be considered, funding for organizational expenses is not permitted.

The Shavlik Family Foundation Grant focuses on funding innovative technology projects that enhance the operational efficiency of nonprofits and Tribal governments in Minnesota. With a commitment to transparency and continuous improvement, the foundation aims to support impactful projects that demonstrate measurable benefits. Eligible organizations must be recognized as 501(c)(3) public charities or Tribal governments, working to improve the lives and environment of Minnesota residents. The grant process encourages discussion of proposals with foundation staff.

The Thriving Neighborhoods Grant, offered by the Travelers Foundation, aims to strengthen Hartford and St. Paul communities through support for organizations focused on safety, stability, and economic growth. Prioritizing equity and inclusion, funding is directed towards accessible housing, small business development, and disaster resilience initiatives. This grant is exclusively available for nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in specific locations, fostering vibrant, culturally enriched neighborhoods and enhancing the lives of historically underrepresented groups.

The Medica Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing rural health in Minnesota by funding community-led initiatives that address health equity. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, it supports projects that improve healthcare access and quality, particularly in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, government agencies, and Tribal Nations, while emphasizing measurable outcomes and culturally-focused care.

The Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation, established in 1994, aims to enhance the quality of life in the Greater Itasca Area through philanthropic efforts. Governed by a dedicated Board of Directors, the foundation awards grants to nonprofits addressing local needs across various sectors, including education and the arts. With over 30 years of experience, it connects generous donors with community needs, fostering collaboration and compassion to create lasting, positive change.

The Morgan Family Foundation offers Social Equity Grants to support innovative initiatives and projects that promote social equity in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Grants are primarily awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and may also support advocacy efforts and capacity building. The Foundation focuses on reducing disparities faced by marginalized communities, fostering collaboration, and enhancing community leadership, all while adhering to its mission of ensuring equitable outcomes for all individuals.

The Joseph Durda Foundation, established in 1989, prioritizes charitable giving to alleviate poverty, support orphans, and assist disabled individuals. The Foundation seeks to empower underprivileged youth through education and invest in medical research, particularly cardiovascular health. Grants are directed towards organizations that positively impact communities, especially those where board members reside, while maintaining a focus on military veterans and their families. Note that individual grants and funding outside these priorities are not supported.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Community IDEAS Grant Program, managed by the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation, aims to foster community-led change in Minnesota. With a total of nine grants of $125,000 each available in 2026, this program targets diverse communities, including Greater Minnesota, the Twin Cities Metro Area, and Native-led organizations. Eligible organizations must be nonprofit entities based in Minnesota, committed to using funds for charitable purposes that benefit their communities.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Willis C. Helm Charitable Trust, established in 1954, focuses on supporting organizations that work on juvenile delinquency and the development of boys from broken homes. It provides annual grants averaging between $5,000 and $15,000, with a total giving of around $60,000 for five grants each year. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and preferably located in Minnesota. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of March 31 for annual review.

About Bush Prize: Minnesota

The Bush Prize program identifies and honors extraordinary organizations that consistently engage and lead their community toward creative solutions, provides them with flexible support to keep doing that work, and supports them to amplify their story to inspire others.

In 2026, two organizations will be selected as Bush Prize: Minnesota honorees. Honorees will receive an award of $250,000. The award is unrestricted and can be used for any charitable purposes in the state of Minnesota, including operating costs, program-related expenses, capital expenditures or whatever else would best support the organization's ongoing work.

The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation was selected as the community grant partner for Minnesota and began implementing Bush Prize: Minnesota in 2024. The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation operates Bush Prize: Minnesota as a Community Grant Partner of the Bush Foundation.

History of Creative Solutions

Bush Prize: Minnesota honors organizations which have at least three years of history using innovative approaches that offer real solutions for the challenges and issues affecting their community. Bush Prize finalists will be able to identify specific examples of processes, programs or projects that use creative approaches, technologies, collaborations, and methods to drive sustainable change and solve problems more effectively.

Community-led Solutions

Bush Prize: Minnesota honors organizations which understand that communities are best positioned to articulate and effectively respond to today's challenges. Bush Prize finalists will show a consistent commitment to listen, engage and involve the community to ensure the people they serve inform, form and benefit from the organization’s impact.

• Benefits - The community served realizes significant impact and change for the issues and challenges they identify as most critical to them.
• Informs - Work should be shaped by input from the community itself. This means the organization listens to the experiences, needs, and feedback from the community it serves to align its goals and initiatives with the actual needs and priorities of the community.
• Forms - Beyond being informed by the community, the community has an active role in shaping the work. The community is directly involved in designing and implementing programs and solutions, and the organization’s work reflects the values, culture, and strengths of the community.

Culture of Creative Problem Solving

Bush Prize: Minnesota honors organizations that exemplify a culture of innovation and creative community problem solving. Bush Prize finalists will articulate how their organization’s values, policies, practices, people and partnerships allow them to innovate and utilize community assets and resources in creative ways to develop sustainable solutions to community issues.

Transformational Impact

Bush Prize: Minnesota honors organizations which have created meaningful, long-lasting change to address the challenges and issues affecting their community. Transformational impact can happen through ideas of all sizes, within communities of all sizes, and through organizations of all sizes. Bush Prize finalists will have approaches and outcomes that:

• Challenge the status quo and address the root causes of significant community issues and systemic challenges.
• Create sustainable and equitable solutions for community, particularly for communities which have been historically underserved.
• Inspire others in the region and serve as a model for future success.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Women’s Fund of Greater La Crosse offers a Mini Grant program for organizations seeking funding for projects that primarily benefit women and girls. With a funding range of $1,500 to $15,000, this initiative supports inclusive and impactful programs that address critical needs in education, transportation, and housing. Prioritizing equity, the fund aims to empower women and girls in La Crosse and surrounding counties, fostering pathways to economic independence and self-sufficiency.

The Women’s Fund of Greater La Crosse offers annual grants to support innovative projects that empower women and girls. Since 1998, over $1 million has been awarded, focusing on education, transportation, and housing to foster economic independence. Eligible organizations include 501(c)3 entities and public agencies serving designated counties. Grants range from $1,500 to $15,000. Priority is given to programs that address critical needs and promote inclusivity across all races, ethnicities, and religions.

The Media Partnerships Program, funded by the Bush Foundation, supports nonprofit media organizations in Minnesota and surrounding areas. It provides three-year operating grants to enhance news coverage, foster community engagement, and ensure diverse voices are represented. By promoting transparency and editorial independence, the program aims to amplify storytelling that addresses local issues, ultimately strengthening the region's informational landscape. Eligible organizations can receive up to $150,000 in support to further their mission while collaborating with the Foundation.