Best Grants for Museums in Minnesota

The Food Retail Improvement and Development Grant (FRIDG) Program by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture aims to enhance access to affordable, nutritious food in underserved communities. This program provides up to $50,000 in competitive grants for equipment purchases and facility improvements. Eligible projects include grocery stores and small food retailers, focusing on increasing the availability of culturally appropriate food. The initiative supports sustainable public-private partnerships to improve food access and consumption in low-income areas.

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 AGRI Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Certification Cost Share Grant Program assists Minnesota growers and handlers in implementing essential food safety measures. Funded by the Agricultural Growth, Research, and Innovation Fund, this program offers reimbursement of up to 75% of GAP/GHP certification costs, with a maximum of $2,500. Eligible applicants must be certified by an accredited body between May 16, 2023, and May 15, 2024, and located in Minnesota.

The AGRI Beginning Farmer Farm Business Management Scholarship offers financial assistance to eligible Minnesota farmers seeking to enhance their business management skills. This program supports farmers with fewer than 40 credits of instruction, aiming to create profitable farming operations. Each scholarship covers up to 50% of tuition for up to 40 credits. The initiative is managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, ensuring a tailored approach to meet the unique needs of beginning farmers.

The Agricultural Chemical Response and Reimbursement Account Grant, managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers financial assistance for cleaning up pesticide and fertilizer incidents. Eligible parties can receive reimbursement for up to 80% of corrective action costs exceeding $1,000, with a maximum limit of $439,200. The application must be submitted at least 30 days before a board meeting for consideration, with 60 days recommended. Compliance with state regulations is essential for eligibility.

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Humane Organization Grant Program 

Mission

To enhance the quality of life of shelter/ rescue animals and to increase their chances for adoption. 

The St. Croix Valley Foundation (SCVF) Humane Organization grant program funded by the Compassionate Animal Fund, is accepting applications (invitation only) from Managed Open Admission humane organizations located in the upper Midwest. The grants, ranging up to $3,000, can cover items on your “wish list” including food, supplies, infrastructure needs, and veterinary cost. 

Funding Criteria

Grants are intended to provide funds for items such as food, supplies, medicine, spay/neuter programs (for in-house animals to aid in adoption) newsletters, or other needs and/or programs that most benefit the humane organization.

​We understand that shelters may differ in the services or alternatives they offer during the waiting period prior to intake. If your facility is at capacity, you must provide a clear statement outlining how emergency surrenders and stray animals are handled, including the procedures your organization follows to operate as an Open Admission shelter.  

The Esther Tomljanovich Strategic Initiatives grant from the Medica Foundation supports transformative projects aimed at advancing health equity. With a funding capacity of up to $200,000 over two to three years, the initiative focuses on innovative proposals in healthcare workforce development, women's health, aging services, dental programs, and housing stability. Grantees are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes and foster collaboration within their communities, emphasizing the importance of addressing unique health needs.

The Drive for 5 Initiative - Job Placement Services Competitive Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), aims to enhance employment opportunities for adults facing barriers. This grant focuses on providing workforce development services, work-based learning, and job placement support in sectors such as technology, labor, and manufacturing. By addressing educational and economic disparities, the initiative seeks to foster long-term, family-sustaining employment for Minnesotans.

The Midwest Culture Bearers Award honors and supports nine folk arts practitioners annually, providing each with a $5,000 unrestricted grant. This initiative aims to amplify the essential work of culture bearers across the Midwest, fostering opportunities for recognition and community connection. By prioritizing traditional practices and knowledge sharing, the award not only celebrates cultural heritage but also strengthens the creative roots of the region, ensuring vibrant artistic expression for future generations.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Damage Account provides funding to repair damage caused by off-highway vehicle (OHV) operations on private or public lands in unauthorized areas. Eligible claims must demonstrate damage occurred post-August 1, 2003, due to OHVs, and must include documentation supporting these conditions. Public and private entities can apply, but costs for preventative measures or improvements are not reimbursable. The program is administered by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, ensuring proper restoration of affected areas.

The Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIGP) provides essential funding for the construction and maintenance of boating facilities for transient recreational vessels 26 feet and longer. Established under the Sportfishing and Boating Safety Act of 1998, it supports projects in all U.S. states and territories, ensuring public access and enhancing boating infrastructure. Eligible activities include docks, fueling stations, and environmental assessments, promoting safe and accessible boating experiences.

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) in Minnesota is a voluntary initiative that supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation practices. By addressing resource concerns comprehensively, CSP encourages sustainable farming on eligible lands, including croplands and forest areas. It promotes access to all producers, fostering improved water and air quality while maintaining agricultural productivity. With year-round applications and periodic ranking cut-off dates, CSP aims to strengthen existing conservation efforts and implement new practices for long-term sustainability.

The Legal Services Advisory Committee (LSAC) Grant provides essential funding for legal services and alternative dispute resolution programs aimed at low-income clients across Minnesota. With support from state legislature appropriations and attorney fees, LSAC ensures access to legal support, serving nearly 50,000 clients annually. The FY24-25 cycle will focus on general operating grants in various categories, including staff legal services and private attorney involvement, thereby enhancing the availability of justice for vulnerable populations.

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 Minnesota Department of Human Services is inviting proposals for immigration services aimed at integrating New Americans into the long-term care workforce. This initiative addresses Minnesota's workforce shortage by providing training and employment opportunities for immigrants. The goal is to create partnerships that enhance career mobility and support retention in the long-term care sector, promoting a more inclusive workforce while benefiting local providers.

Experienced culture bearers in Minnesota who sustain and share community culture, heritage, and traditional arts can receive US $25,000 unrestricted fellowships supporting their cultural practice. The McKnight Culture Bearers Fellowship from Indigenous Roots offers professional development, mentoring support, facilities access, and networking, which may benefit museum-based educators and cultural practitioners preserving folk and traditional arts.

The Minnesota Department of Education is offering the Concurrent Enrollment Introduction to Teaching Grant to enhance the teacher workforce by funding programs under the Postsecondary Education Options (PSEO). This initiative aims to develop and expand dual-credit courses in education for high school students, particularly focusing on American Indian and students of color, thus promoting diversity and inclusion in teaching careers across Minnesota.

The Mary C. Murphy Library Construction Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Education, supports public library renovations and construction projects aimed at enhancing accessibility. With funding up to $1 million for improvements and $450,000 for accessibility, this grant prioritizes eliminating architectural barriers and ensuring safe, inviting library environments. The initiative reflects the Department's commitment to equitable education access for all Minnesotans, fostering lifelong learning opportunities within communities.

Minnesota community-engaged artists working beyond the emerging stage can receive US $28,000 to deepen socially or culturally transformative practice. Focused on artist training and art for social change, Pillsbury United Communities supports mid-career creators with unrestricted funds, professional development, and opportunities that may benefit artists collaborating with museums and cultural institutions.

The McKnight Foundation's Arts & Culture Grant Program supports initiatives that empower artists and culture bearers in Minnesota. With a focus on enhancing the visibility of underrepresented groups and fostering community engagement, the program provides both unrestricted and restricted grants. Organizations can apply for funding to develop innovative projects that align with the foundation's commitment to justice and creativity. Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis, with a three-month review period.

The McKnight Foundation's Midwest Climate and Energy Grant focuses on funding initiatives that address the climate crisis while promoting equity in the Midwest. The foundation supports projects that transform energy systems, decarbonize transportation and buildings, and enhance community resilience. It aims to engage diverse populations and foster innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance sustainable practices. Eligible organizations include nonprofits, governmental entities, and those in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa, with an emphasis on collaborative, impactful projects.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is inviting proposals for the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Capacity Grants aimed at enhancing service delivery in rural and underserved communities. This funding opportunity focuses on improving access and quality of life for older adults and individuals with disabilities, particularly those facing systemic barriers. Proposals should align with HCBS licensing requirements and demonstrate effective capacity building to better serve these communities.

The Minnesota Chapter Peter Potvin Scholarship is available for full-time undergraduate mechanical or architectural engineering students enrolled in institutions within the Minnesota Chapter's geographic boundaries. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class, with additional criteria for program accreditation. This scholarship supports students pursuing degrees that prepare them for careers in the HVAC&R field, contributing to sustainable building practices.

The McKnight Fellowships for Fiber Artists support talented Minnesota artists with a significant body of work in fiber art for at least eight years. Each fellow receives a $25,000 unrestricted award, along with professional development opportunities, critiques, and public exhibitions. This initiative emphasizes racial equity and inclusivity, welcoming diverse cultural perspectives in the arts community. The program recognizes mid-career artists, fostering their ongoing creativity and contributions to Minnesota's vibrant arts ecosystem.

The Grotto Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through community-led initiatives in Minnesota. Organizations can apply if they address at least three of four key areas: Youth Development, Postsecondary Success, Community Safety & Neighborhood Development, and Mentoring. The Foundation invites selected organizations to apply, with grant decisions made three times a year, fostering sustainable solutions for local challenges.

The McKnight Fellowships for Book Artists, administered by the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, offers significant support for talented, mid-career book artists in Minnesota. Each year, two fellowships are awarded, providing $25,000 unrestricted grants, studio access, and professional development opportunities. This program aims to cultivate artistic excellence in book arts while benefiting the community. Eligible artists must demonstrate professional achievements and sustained experience in the field, contributing to Minnesota's vibrant cultural landscape.

The McKnight Printmaking Fellowship, part of the McKnight Foundation’s program, offers two mid-career artists in Minnesota an unrestricted award of $25,000 along with access to Highpoint's advanced print shop and various professional development opportunities. This fellowship aims to support artists who have demonstrated sustained excellence in printmaking. Eligible candidates must have been Minnesota residents for at least a year and cannot have received a McKnight Artist Fellowship in the last five years.