Best Grants for Charities in Minnesota

Behavioral Health Division

The Behavioral Health Division (BHD) oversees Minnesota's mental health and substance abuse prevention and treatment services that are paid for with state and federal funds. To support these services, BHD awards grants to counties, tribes, and nongovernmental providers. Behavioral health services include prevention, treatment, short-term and long-term care, as well as home and community-based services. BHD manages about 700 grants annually.

Request for Proposals for a Grantee to Provide Opioid Epidemic Response Services

Objective of RFP

The Opiate Epidemic Response Advisory Council (OERAC), in conjunction with the Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Behavioral Health Administration (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to provide services aimed at addressing the opioid epidemic in Minnesota. These services include prevention and harm reduction for opioid use disorder (OUD), expansion and enhancement of the continuum of care for opioid related substance use disorders (SUD), and chronic pain management and alternative treatments.

The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for three and a half (3.5) years. STATE may extend the contract up to a total of five (5) years.

OERAC and STATE have identified four categories to meet the purpose of this RFP, each containing multiple focus areas. The four categories available for funding under this RFP are:

• Category A– Primary Prevention and Education for Opioid Related Substance Use Disorders
• Category B – Harm Reduction Services
• Category C – Expansion and Enhancement of Continuum of Care for Opioid Related Substance Use
• Category D – Chronic pain and Alternative Treatments

The Partnership Fund Grant by the Bush Foundation is designed for unique funding needs that do not align with existing programs. It aims to address pressing community challenges in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native nations. This fund facilitates collaboration with other funders, attracts additional resources, and provides seed funding for initiatives that resonate with the foundation's strategic values, ensuring impactful community development.

The National School Lunch Program Equipment Grant in Minnesota provides competitive funding for school food authorities to purchase essential equipment. This grant aims to enhance meal quality by serving healthier options, improving food safety, and supporting the School Breakfast Program. Eligible applicants can request up to $25,000 for equipment that costs at least $1,000. This initiative is managed by the Minnesota Department of Education and focuses on fostering better nutrition for students.

The Gun Violence Prevention & Justice Reform Grant by The Joyce Foundation aims to create safer communities in the Great Lakes region. It focuses on reducing gun violence, addressing racial disparities in the justice system, and promoting violence intervention strategies. The foundation invites innovative proposals that support these goals, emphasizing research, policy advocacy, and community engagement to effectively address the challenges of gun violence and promote racial equity.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Computer Science Studies, awarded by the UNICO Foundation, offers four scholarships of $1,000 each to full-time students pursuing a degree in Computer Science at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible applicants must reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor, be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older, and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Needmor Fund for Social Justice aims to promote social justice by supporting community organizing efforts in the Midwest. With a focus on low- and moderate-income communities, BIPOC groups, and other marginalized populations, the fund provides grants for up to three years to organizations committed to long-term empowerment and advocacy. The initiative seeks to foster inclusive participation in democracy, ensuring that all voices are heard in shaping policies affecting their lives.

About OJP

The Office of Justice Programs provides leadership and resources to reduce crime, improve the functioning of the criminal justice system and assist crime victims.

Community Crime Intervention and Prevention Grant Program

Description of the program

Community Crime Intervention and Prevention (CCIP) funds community-based crime and violence prevention and intervention programs that provide direct services to community members.

This grant program funds a wide variety of community-based programs to address the factors that contribute to a community’s crime, delinquency, and disorder. Funded program focuses have included:

• Youth-focused
• Elder-focused
• Education
• Internship/Employment services
• Shelter services
• Housing
• Gun violence intervention
• Street outreach
• Truancy Intervention
• Probation services
• Legal services
• Advocacy
• Advocacy services
• Sexual exploitation
• Restorative practices
• Prevention
• Intervention

All programs are encouraged to be innovative, use best and emerging practices, and include substantial involvement by members of the community that is served by the program.

The Quetico Superior Foundation Grant supports the preservation of Minnesota’s Border Lakes Canoe Country and Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park. It funds diverse projects ranging from land preservation to youth programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations engaged in wilderness protection. The foundation aims to enhance the quality of wilderness preservation in the region, ensuring a lasting impact on environmental conservation. Interested groups should reach out for more information.

The AGRI County Fair Grants in Minnesota aim to support county fairs in preserving and promoting agriculture while enhancing access to the arts and cultural heritage. Funded by the Minnesota Legislature through the AGRI Program and the Legacy Amendment, these grants offer $10,800 for agricultural projects and $3,800 for arts-related initiatives for 2025. Eligible projects include livestock education displays, sound equipment, pottery workshops, and antique farm equipment exhibits, fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation.

CentraCare Health System, rooted in 1886, is a leading not-for-profit health system in Central Minnesota. With a mission focused on patient care, CentraCare contributes to the community through charitable donations and support for local organizations. Prioritizing health, wellness, and community education, they strive to enhance the quality of life for residents in their service areas, demonstrating a commitment to improving overall community well-being.

The We Are One Solidarity Award, presented by Education Minnesota, recognizes local unions or active members demonstrating significant leadership in various areas such as organizing campaigns and advocating for workers' rights. This annual award highlights the importance of collaboration among union members and aims to strengthen relationships across unions. Nominations can be submitted by any Education Minnesota member, emphasizing the value of collective effort in supporting public education.

The Evelyn Lenander Education Scholarship, established in 1989, supports college students majoring in elementary education at Minnesota institutions. Funded by CommunityGiving, the scholarship honors Evelyn Lenander, a dedicated teacher who believed in nurturing future educators. Applicants must be Minnesota residents, enrolled in their 3rd or 4th year of college, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This initiative aims to empower local communities by investing in the next generation of educators.

The MHS Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Large Grants program, funded by the Legacy Amendment's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, supports projects that preserve Minnesota's history and culture. This competitive grant program, initiated in 2009, aims to enhance access to cultural resources and promote enduring historical projects. Eligible initiatives include history documentation, preservation planning, and education programs, contributing to the state's rich heritage while fostering public engagement and awareness.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers micro-grants up to $5,000 to support nonprofit organizations focused on the arts, wildlife conservation, and disaster relief, particularly in the Sioux City area. This initiative allows for one-time funding aimed at fostering creativity and community engagement. Organizations eligible for these grants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 30 days, promoting impactful projects that benefit local residents.

The MHS Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small and Structured Grants provide essential funding for projects that preserve and enhance Minnesota's rich history and cultural resources. Established through the Legacy Amendment's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, these grants support a variety of initiatives, including history projects and historic preservation efforts. With a focus on community engagement and sustainability, the program aims to foster lasting impacts on local history and cultural heritage throughout Minnesota.

The MN Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers funding to enhance the competitiveness of Minnesota-grown specialty crops in both domestic and international markets. This initiative supports various crops, including fruits, vegetables, and horticulture products, as defined by the USDA. Projects funded can significantly contribute to the agricultural economy and promote sustainable practices in specialty crop production.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers project grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief, primarily focusing on the Sioux City area. Organizations can apply for funding to enhance or establish programs that are self-sustaining, as the foundation does not intend to provide long-term financing. Interested parties must first request an invitation to apply for funding.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers endowment grants aimed at supporting pre-selected non-profit organizations that align with its mission in the arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. Although unsolicited applications are not accepted, organizations can request an invitation to apply. The Foundation prefers projects that demonstrate robust board participation and offers matching funds, particularly favoring initiatives in the Sioux City area. Approximately 55% of grants are allocated to endowment and capital campaigns.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Minneapolis Foundation invites proposals for the Economic Mobility – Capacity Building Grants, aimed at enhancing economic mobility through flexible funding for nonprofits. This initiative prioritizes organizations in Minneapolis and Hennepin County's inner-ring suburbs, focusing on capacity building, strategic planning, and community engagement. Grants will support activities like financial management, staffing improvements, and technology upgrades to help nonprofits adapt to changing landscapes and better serve their communities.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Gilchrist Foundation offers capital campaign grants to pre-selected non-profit organizations, particularly those enhancing arts, wildlife conservation, public broadcasting, and disaster relief. While the Foundation does not accept unsolicited applications, eligible organizations can request an invitation to apply. Grants typically support significant renovation or expansion projects, aiming to foster long-term viability and special initiatives. Preference is given to projects in the Sioux City area, with a focus on stimulating matching funds.