Best Grants for Charities in Minnesota

The Robert J. Tarte Scholarship for Italian Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, supports students of Italian descent pursuing a major or minor in Italian Studies or Language. Valued at $1,000, this scholarship is awarded to full-time undergraduate students attending accredited institutions in the U.S. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies through the 2026-2027 academic year, with preference given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

The McKnight Visual Artist Fellowships, administered by the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, support mid-career Minnesota artists through six annual $25,000 unrestricted grants. This initiative, backed by the McKnight Foundation, fosters artistic growth by connecting fellows with national critics and providing professional development opportunities. Since 1982, the program has aimed to enhance the artistic merit and career trajectories of visual artists, contributing significantly to Minnesota's vibrant arts community.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Jennie-O Scholarships: Higher Education Scholarship offers a one-time payment of $1,000 to high school seniors who are children of Jennie-O team members or team members themselves. With up to 50 scholarships available, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including maintaining at least 10 credits per semester. This initiative aims to support the education of young individuals who will impact their communities positively in the future.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Minnesota provide funding for rural communities to prepare for or recover from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. Eligible events include droughts, floods, and chemical spills. Grants of up to $150,000 for water transmission lines and $1 million for water sources are available. This initiative aims to restore access to clean water and support rural development, benefiting households and local businesses affected by natural disasters.

The AIPG MN Fundamentals of Geology (FG) Grant provides financial support to undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in Minnesota geoscience programs. Each grant, valued at $300, covers the ASBOG exam and related fees. Approximately 10 grants are awarded annually, aimed at promoting the advancement of geology and supporting students who demonstrate a commitment to the field. Eligibility includes being a Student Member of AIPG and proof of exam approval.

The McKnight Media Artist Fellowships, offered by FilmNorth in collaboration with the McKnight Foundation, provide four $25,000 fellowships to mid-career media artists residing in Minnesota. These fellowships aim to recognize artistic excellence and support the creative work of individuals with a strong commitment to media arts. In addition to the financial award, fellows benefit from public acknowledgment, networking opportunities, and professional support, fostering a vibrant community of artists.

The AIPG MN Undergraduate Student Grant supports undergraduate geoscience students in Minnesota, offering at least two grants of up to $1,500 each. Eligible applicants must be in their junior or senior year with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, and must be Student Members of AIPG. This initiative aims to promote the geological sciences and encourage high ethical standards among students pursuing geology, fostering their academic and professional development.

The St. Cloud Builders Exchange Legacy Scholarship Fund supports local students pursuing careers in construction trades. Established to honor the Builders Exchange, it aims to provide educational opportunities for high school seniors from Benton, Stearns, or Sherburne counties with a minimum GPA of 2.0. Eligible students can apply for full-time enrollment at St. Cloud State University or St. Cloud Technical and Community College, ensuring a brighter future for the building industry.

The Minnesota Humanities Center is offering the Emergency Response Grant to support organizations promoting the art, culture, and heritage of diverse communities in Minnesota. With $600,000 available, each applicant can request up to $50,000. This funding aims to assist Indigenous groups, historically underrepresented communities, recent immigrants, and veterans in celebrating their unique cultural narratives and fostering community engagement. The application deadline is October 15, 2026, or until funds are expended.

The Foundation of AIPG William J. Siok Graduate Scholarship Program offers $5,000 to support graduate students in accredited geoscience programs. This initiative aims to alleviate educational costs and encourage student involvement in the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG). Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a geological science degree program, including international students. AIPG advocates for geological professionals and promotes ethical standards within the field, making this scholarship a valuable opportunity for aspiring geoscientists.

The Disaster Resilience Program, supported by Equal Justice Works, aims to provide free civil legal aid to communities affected by disasters in the Midwest. With funding for attorney and summer law student fellows, the program addresses the unique legal needs of low-income families, helping them recover from the impacts of disasters. This initiative not only stabilizes lives but also promotes resilience in communities by ensuring access to essential legal services.

The Minnesota Film Production Grant supports early career film directors based in Minnesota who are willing to take creative risks. Offering production grants of up to $30,000, the grant aims to nurture filmmakers who innovate, maintain a clear vision for storytelling, and actively engage with their creative community. The Foundation prioritizes projects that expand and re-imagine the filmmaking process, ultimately enhancing the local artistic landscape.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The Jennie-O Scholarships: Golden Excellence Scholarship offers $6,000 to graduating high school seniors who are children of full-time Jennie-O team members in the Supply Chain Operations Division. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.00 and plan to attend a U.S. four-year college. This scholarship aims to empower young individuals to pursue higher education and contribute positively to their communities. Apply now for an opportunity to secure your educational future.

The Gil Gabanski Student Scholarship, provided by the MGWA Foundation, offers multiple $2,000 awards for undergraduate and graduate students studying at accredited institutions in Minnesota and nearby areas. This scholarship aims to ease educational expenses and foster interest in groundwater-related careers, including hydrogeology and groundwater geology. It also promotes mentorship opportunities for early-career students, honoring Gil Gabanski's legacy in the geosciences community.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Gisle A. Johnson and Eva M. Johnson Education Fund, administered by Scholarship America, supports students from the Owatonna, MN School District. It aims to eliminate financial barriers for current high school seniors or graduates under 35. Eligible applicants can enroll in accredited colleges or vocational schools for the upcoming academic year. Scholarship America has awarded over $5.7 billion to millions, ensuring equitable access to education. This fund exemplifies their mission to empower students through financial support.

The Minnesota Filmmaker Mentorship Grant offers up to $10,000 for early career film directors in Minnesota to engage in self-designed mentorships with experienced professionals. It supports those working in various genres, including experimental, narrative, animation, and documentary. Applicants must have a clear vision for their projects and demonstrate a commitment to innovative storytelling and community impact. A phone conversation is required before applying.

The Miller Architects & Builders Industry Scholarship, initiated by CommunityGiving, supports high school seniors from Stearns, Benton, and Sherburne Counties pursuing careers in architecture, construction management, drafting/CAD, and related fields. This scholarship aims to provide financial assistance to students with a GPA of 2.0 or higher, enabling them to attend a two or four-year college in the U.S. It emphasizes the importance of education for the future leaders of our communities.

The Kandiyohi County Farm Bureau Scholarship, offered by CommunityGiving, supports local high school seniors in Kandiyohi County pursuing education in agriculture-related fields. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and plan to enroll full-time in a U.S.-based college. Although Farm Bureau family membership is not required, preference will be given to members. This scholarship aims to empower future leaders in agriculture by providing essential financial support for their education.

The NCR-SARE Graduate Student Grant Program funds up to $20,000 for graduate student projects addressing sustainable agriculture in the North Central Region. Established in 2002, it supports Master's and Ph.D. students at accredited institutions. Projects can last up to 36 months, and applicants may receive only one grant during their academic career. The program aims to promote innovative solutions to agricultural challenges and enhance sustainability practices in the region.

MSAB Creative Support for Individuals Grant

Project grants to help individual artists and culture bearers develop or sustain their creative practices and meaningfully engage with Minnesotans. Grantees may use funds to support their creative practice and meaningfully connect to and engage with audiences, participants, students, and/or communities during the grant period.

Applicants may be working in a variety of art forms including dance, media arts, music, photography, poetry, prose, theater, two-dimensional or three-dimensional visual art. Culture bearers refers to individuals who have been trained by traditional elders or master artists and whose artistic practice is reflective of the cultural life of a community that shares a common ethnicity, geographic or regional identity, language, or tribal affiliation.

Program outcome

This program exists to support artists and culture bearers as they sustain their artistic practices and maintain their connections to Minnesota residents and communities. The program’s intended outcome is: Artists and culture bearers engage Minnesotans in their creative practice.

Grant range

Applicants may request between $2,000 - $10,000. No cash match is required.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

Regional Planning Grant to Prevent & End Homelessness

The Regional Planning Grant to Prevent and End Homelessness is designed to support the capacity of Greater Minnesota Continuums of Care (CoCs) and Tribal Nations to prevent and end homelessness while improving the regional homeless response system to help it be more equitable.

The goal of this grant is to focus on ongoing collaborative efforts and develop new initiatives that coordinate strategies among various stakeholders. Enhancing efforts among stakeholders is meant to help regions throughout Minnesota be more effective when advancing goals to prevent and end homelessness.