Best Grants for Charities in Minnesota

The Education Minnesota Human Rights Award honors members who have championed human and civil rights within educational settings. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to equality and inclusivity, whether through direct action, advocacy, or educational initiatives. By nominating deserving members, you help celebrate their commitment to fostering a supportive and equitable environment for all students and educators. Nominations are accepted annually, with a deadline in January.

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.

Noncommunity Transient Grant (Source Water Protection)

Noncommunity transient systems are defined as public water systems (PWS) that regularly serve an average of at least 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of the year, but do not serve the same 25 people over that period of time. SWP activities that are funded under this grant program must support measures that address a potential contamination source that presents a high risk to a source of drinking water as determined by MDH. 

The fundamental goals of SWP are to prevent contamination from entering sources of public drinking water at levels that present a risk to people; and to provide long term, sustainable management of drinking water sources. SWP applies to all types of public water systems and is based on requirements in the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and authorities granted to MDH by the state legislature.

This is a reimbursement grant. The PWS will be reimbursed once the project work item activities and the grant reporting requirements have been successfully met and MDH is satisfied that the project has been completed according to the terms of the grant agreement. 

The Nitrogen Management Financial Assistance Pilot Program offers competitive funding of up to $5,000 per year for three years to producers implementing agricultural practices that minimize nitrate-nitrogen leaching into groundwater. Funded by the 2023 Legislative Session, the program encourages sustainable farming initiatives within Level 2 Drinking Water Supply Management Areas. Eligible practices include cover crops and precision agriculture, aiming to protect water resources while supporting agricultural productivity.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

MN Drilling Incentive Grants (DIG)

Drilling Incentive grants (DIG) are designed to stimulate exploration for new minerals, gas resources and/or new deposits of these resources. The data and information acquired during the drilling and analyses phases will eventually become housed at the state's Drill Core Library for future analysis.  

Funding Availability

• Funded at $100,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund.
• The agency will match up to 40% of direct drilling costs not to exceed $20,000 per drill hole.
• Funding can only be used for exploratory drilling.
• Project must begin within 12 months of a grant award.
• Multi-organization collaboration is welcomed

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Share the Bounty Grant, offered by The Andersons Inc Charitable Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities through support for agriculture, social services, civic engagement, education, arts, and health initiatives. By investing in these key areas, The Andersons seeks to foster environments where individuals and families can thrive, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for all residents in the regions they serve.

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Impact Grant promotes innovative practices focused on equity and inclusion in education. By supporting educators and collaborative projects with local nonprofits and unions, the Foundation aims to drive long-lasting change in teaching and learning policies. Grants are awarded annually for theme-based projects, with funding for the second year contingent upon demonstrated progress. This initiative empowers active Education Minnesota members to create impactful educational experiences for students.

The Ralph K. Morris Foundation offers Cooperative Leadership Sponsorships to support training and professional development for emerging leaders, especially from rural areas. The program adapts to changing needs by providing financial assistance for cooperative education events and scholarships. Priority is given to organizations in Minnesota and Wisconsin, encouraging a collaborative approach to leadership development in communities. This initiative aims to foster the future of cooperatives through accessible education and training opportunities.

The Artists Engage Community Grant, offered by the Region 2 Arts Council, promotes the integration of high-quality arts into North Central Minnesota's communities. Supporting diverse artistic projects, including performances, public art, and educational workshops, the grant aims to enhance local engagement with the arts. Eligible proposals must connect with residents of Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Lake of the Woods, or Mahnomen counties, ensuring accessibility and community involvement. Projects must commence within 12 months and be completed by June 30, 2025.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA)

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day. Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

Our three general areas of responsibility include: protecting our food supply; protecting our natural resources; and, cultivating our agricultural economy.

Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Works Grant Program

MDA is now accepting applications from nonprofit organizations, units of governments, and most colleges and universities for the Fiscal Year 2027 for Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation (AGRI) Works Grant Program. The Minnesota Legislature established the AGRI Works to provide regional and statewide development, education, research, and marketing services that promote agriculture, horticulture, and rural communities. Projects must provide regional or statewide services. Project examples include but are not limited to:

• Performing research on topics relevant to rural communities across the state.
• Conducting outreach or providing education to farmers or horticultural growers.
• We will give priority to projects not eligible for other grants from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.

The NRA Foundation: Minnesota Grants aims to provide funding that aligns with its charitable mission under IRS regulations. Eligible organizations include IRS-recognized entities, government agencies, and state nonprofit organizations. The foundation supports projects that promote firearms safety, education, and research in shooting sports. However, labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals are not eligible for these grants. Proper documentation, such as IRS letters or state registrations, is required for application.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Professional Development Grant supports licensed educators, education support professionals, and higher education faculty in enhancing their skills in equity and inclusion practices. Grants are available for individual members and groups, with funding of up to $2,000 per person for ESPs and teachers, and $3,000 for higher education faculty. Applicants must be active, dues-paying members of Education Minnesota, and the program emphasizes sharing new skills with colleagues.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The PRISM Fund Grant, offered by PFund Foundation, aims to enhance equity within LGBTQ+ communities in the upper Midwest. It focuses on supporting rural LGBTQ+ organizations through grants, training, and collaboration. The program prioritizes communities disproportionately affected by discrimination, such as queer people of color, gender-expansive individuals, and LGBTQ+ residents of North and South Dakota. By addressing unique regional challenges, the PRISM Fund fosters resilience and connectivity among these underserved populations.

The Mac Hyde Brownfield Scholarship Program honors the legacy of environmental law pioneer Maclay Hyde by supporting students pursuing studies related to brownfield redevelopment. This $2,000 scholarship is awarded to undergraduate or graduate students at accredited Minnesota institutions, focusing on fields like engineering, public policy, and environmental sciences. Recipients also receive recognition at the ReScape Awards and a student membership with Minnesota Brownfields, encouraging future leaders in community revitalization and environmental quality.

The State Park Road Account Program (SPRA) in Minnesota supports local governments in enhancing access to public recreation facilities. With approximately $5 million available annually, this program funds improvements to roads leading to state parks, lakes, and campgrounds. Eligible projects include construction and maintenance of county and city roads. Priority is given to projects that enhance outdoor recreation access and address safety issues, with costs reimbursable up to 100% for eligible expenses.

Parks and Trails Legacy grants

Provides funding for parks and trails of regional significance outside of the seven-county metropolitan area. Applications for this program are submitted directly to the Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission (GMRPTC). The GMRPTC submits funding recommendations to the legislature. The legislature then appropriates funding to the Department of Natural Resources to award and administer the grants. Please visit the GMRPTC web page for application and contact information.

The Greater Minnesota Regional Parks and Trails Commission was established in 2013 to undertake system planning and provide recommendations to the legislature for grants funded by the parks and trails fund to counties and cities outside the seven-county metropolitan area for parks and trails of regional significance. Minnesota Statutes, 85.536 .