Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Minnesota

Community-based nonprofits, tribal governments, local governments, schools, and higher education institutions in Minnesota and other EPA Region 5 states can seek funding for environmental justice assessment and engagement projects, with awards up to US $150,000. The Minneapolis Foundation supports work in disadvantaged communities on issues like environmental health, air and water quality, healthy homes, and disaster resilience.

Minnesota environmental and conservation organizations working on watershed health and resilience may be eligible for funding to strengthen long-term social and ecological conditions. Minnesota environment groups can access funding through Laird Norton Family Foundation’s Watershed Stewardship program, which currently prioritizes work in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and select Western U.S. watersheds.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local governments in Minnesota can apply for up to US $35,000 to implement ecosystem restoration and public open space projects that engage local communities. With a mission to support environmental initiatives, the Laura Jane Musser Fund provides implementation grants for projects that enhance ecological integrity while promoting public access and long-term sustainability.

Grants from Laura Jane Musser Fund help Minnesota environmental organizations and local governments plan community-driven projects for publicly owned open spaces. Eligible 501(c)(3)s and local units of government can seek up to US $8,000 for planning efforts that enhance ecological integrity, expand public access, and lay groundwork for long-term sustainable habitat and park improvements.

Minnesota 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental sustainability, education, or stewardship can seek support for projects and programs, including operating and capital needs. With a mission to strengthen communities, Otter Tail Corporation Foundation provides funding for initiatives that protect natural resources and foster collaboration between businesses and communities in eligible Minnesota counties.

The Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations Grant, funded by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, supports projects that promote environmentally sustainable practices for local lakes and watersheds. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and community groups within Hubbard County. Projects can involve invasive species prevention, water quality research, and educational initiatives. A matched funding requirement ensures community engagement, making it a vital resource for preserving local natural resources and enhancing community resilience.

Minnesota environmental and justice-focused organizations working on climate policy or Great Lakes and drinking water issues can access funding through the Joyce Foundation for advocacy and policy change initiatives. Eligible national or regional groups must advance clean energy, freshwater protection, or equitable water access in Great Lakes states, with priorities for communities disproportionately impacted by environmental harms.

Legal services nonprofits, solo practitioners, and small law firms pursuing environmental justice and other impact litigation in Minnesota can receive US $10,000 - US $50,000 in recoverable funding for out-of-pocket litigation costs. The Impact Fund supports cases addressing environmental, economic, racial, and social injustice, with a preference for filed or soon-to-be-filed cases that can drive significant law reform.

Local governments and regional agencies in Minnesota can seek funding for pedestrian and bicycle facilities, trail projects, and related infrastructure through the Greater Minnesota Transportation Alternatives Solicitation. Minnesota Department of Transportation supports projects such as Safe Routes to School and historic preservation that may benefit environmental and community-focused initiatives.

Statutory or home rule charter cities, counties, port authorities, and development or housing authorities in Minnesota can apply for the Contamination Cleanup and Investigation Grant to assess and clean up polluted sites for redevelopment. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, it covers up to 75% of eligible investigation, cleanup, demolition, and related project costs.

Nonprofits, public schools, and government units in the Hackensack Lakes area can seek funding for start-up or capacity-building projects that support community development, environmental projects, and health and wellbeing. Initiative Foundation awards competitive grants across Central Minnesota, with applications accepted year-round and reviewed quarterly for projects serving the nine surrounding townships.

The Omdahl Conservation Fund, managed by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, invites applications for environmental projects in the Northwest Minnesota region. With a total funding of $50,000 and a maximum award of $25,000, the fund aims to support 501c3 nonprofits focused on preserving natural resources. This includes areas inhabited by Red Lake and White Earth Nations, covering 12 counties. Grant applicants will help foster sustainability and conservation efforts in the community.

Agricultural and rural electric cooperatives in Minnesota can apply for Minnesota Department of Agriculture’s Green Fertilizer Grant Program, awarding US $250,000 - US $3,800,000 for green fertilizer production facilities. Funding supports renewable-energy-based, low-carbon fertilizer plants that use locally sourced inputs and provide member training on best management practices, with at least 50% matching investment required.

Nonprofit and fiscally sponsored organizations doing biodiversity conservation work in Minnesota’s northeast counties can seek US $5,000 - US $50,000 for one-year projects preserving and restoring habitat, aiding vulnerable species, and advancing environmental education and research. Boreal Waters Community Foundation’s Biodiversity Fund supports community-led, equity-centered efforts that build long-term ecosystem resilience and capacity.

Environmental nonprofits and fiscally sponsored projects in northeast Minnesota and nearby tribal nations can apply for Boreal Waters Community Foundation’s Biodiversity Fund large and multi-year grants, awarding up to US $150,000 for habitat and species conservation. Funding supports habitat restoration, vulnerable species, climate adaptation planning, research, and environmental education that strengthen regional ecosystems.

Nonprofits, public schools, and government units in the greater Pine area of Minnesota can seek project funding for economic and community development, including environmental stewardship and community beautification. With a mission to strengthen local communities, Initiative Foundation’s Greater Pine Area Endowment supports efforts that enhance quality of life and address needs of vulnerable residents.

Minnesota environmental organizations and public entities seeking support for on-the-ground projects can host Minnesota GreenCorps AmeriCorps members to advance air, water, land, and climate initiatives. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency places full-time members for 11 months to help with energy conservation, green transportation, stormwater and forestry, waste reduction, recycling, and community outreach projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental education and related community programs in Minnesota can seek funding for operations, programs, projects, and some capital needs. Fred C And Katherine B Andersen Foundation primarily supports work in the St. Croix Valley region, which may include environmental initiatives that build thriving local communities.

Conservation-minded individuals, educators, media professionals, and community groups in Minnesota can be nominated for awards recognizing environmental stewardship, education, and conservation leadership. With a mission to protect outdoor America, Izaak Walton League of America honors local conservation achievements that may complement environmental project work across the state.

Waseca Area Foundation

The Waseca Area Foundation was created from the contributions of Waseca area residents, starting with the All School Reunion of 1988. Former classmates and current area residents shared an interest in the present and future of the Waseca community.

The Waseca Area Foundation is a Community Fund with a close affiliation with the St. Paul & Minnesota Community Foundation, which allows a broader investment opportunity with little cost to local funds. The Waseca Area Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable non profit with tax exempt status under Minnesota and Federal Law.

Waseca Area Foundation’s mission is to provide an opportunity for groups or individuals to leave a legacy through contributions which build a permanent community fund committed to meeting the changing needs of the Waseca area.

New Richland Area Foundation Grant

Focus Area

• Provide grants for agencies that serve residents of the New Richland Area.
• Provide grants for community development projects and programs, which are responsive to the changing community needs in promoting quality education, cultural, wellness, recreational, social service, environmental and civic opportunities.

Waseca Area Foundation

The Waseca Area Foundation was created from the contributions of Waseca area residents, starting with the All School Reunion of 1988. Former classmates and current area residents shared an interest in the present and future of the Waseca community.

The Waseca Area Foundation is a Community Fund with a close affiliation with the St. Paul & Minnesota Community Foundation, which allows a broader investment opportunity with little cost to local funds. The Waseca Area Foundation is a 501(c)3 charitable non profit with tax exempt status under Minnesota and Federal Law.

Waseca Area Foundation’s mission is to provide an opportunity for groups or individuals to leave a legacy through contributions which build a permanent community fund committed to meeting the changing needs of the Waseca area.

Waseca Area Foundation Grant

Focus Area

• Provide grants for agencies that serve residents of Waseca County.
• Provide grants for community development projects and programs, which are responsive to the changing community needs in promoting quality education, cultural, wellness, recreational, social service, environmental and civic opportunities.

Pledges are made for one year at a time unless there are special circumstances.

The foundation in consultation with the Waseca Area Foundation Board reserves the right to shift its focus in response to the needs of the community.

All grants are made in accordance with current regulations of the Internal Revenue Code.

Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, tribal governments, public agencies, and fiscally sponsored projects in rural Minnesota can apply for Blandin Foundation’s community wealth building grants, awarding US $25,000 - US $150,000 for multi-year initiatives. Funding can support community development, environmental stewardship, climate resilience, and equitable economic opportunities, with emphasis on small, low-income, diverse, and remote communities including Itasca and surrounding counties.

Minnesota businesses and other entities seeking to expand recycling and waste management efforts in Minnesota can apply for funding to build long-term recycling market capacity. Focused on recycling and waste management, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency invites projects that use or process recyclable materials into higher-value products, with awards from US $50,000 - US $300,000 requiring a 20% match.

Organizations in Minnesota developing enterprises, supply chains, or markets for continuous living cover crops can apply for US $50,000 - US $100,000 to support early-stage commercial development. Minnesota Department of Agriculture supports environmental and agricultural projects that expand CLC crop production, improve soil and water quality, and build equipment and infrastructure for value chain growth.

Minnesota nonprofits, schools, governments, and tribal entities working on environmental sustainability and related global issues can seek support for education, media, and community projects. Boreal Waters Community Foundation’s Global Awareness Fund backs initiatives that foster peace, justice, human rights, and cross-cultural understanding, including global education, conferences, media production, and sister city or peace and justice center efforts.

Minnesota 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government agencies, churches, and school districts with community-improvement or environmental projects can access funding through the St. Croix Valley Foundation’s SACF Great Idea Competition. Grants up to US $10,000 support innovative projects benefiting Stillwater-area communities, enhancing quality of life, addressing local needs, and strengthening community connections within Washington County, Minnesota.

Worthington Area Community Foundation

A one-stop community organization for charitable contributions that benefit the place we call home. It is a permanent resource for the community that provides leadership and financial resources to meet community needs. It also offers a variety of giving options to help donors meet their unique philanthropic goals. It is managed by a volunteer board of directors, who are connected to the community and who understand local issues and opportunities that arise.

The Worthington Area Foundation (WAF) helps make the community an even better place to live and work by awarding grants to worthy organizations and projects through its own general endowment and related funds.

Mission Statement: The mission of Worthington Area Foundation is to promote charitable giving by assisting donors in the establishment of funds and memorials, which will provide lasting benefits to the Worthington, Minnesota area.

The WAF Endowment Fund:

• Was established in 1991
• Is a permanent community resource because the principal is permanently retained
• Enables the board to award grants annually to meet community needs

Foundation Grants

Foundation grants are made to non-profit and non-political groups. Priority areas include: arts & culture, environmental causes, youth development & education, recreational or civic activities essential to building and strengthening our community.

The Worthington Area Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, non-profit philanthropic organization funded by large and small donations from generous contributors.