Best Grants for Museums in Minnesota

The Anderson Niskanen Scholarship Fund, established by Suama Niskanen Anderson in 1998, supports graduates from Duluth public high schools in financial need who wish to attend the University of Minnesota Duluth or Twin Cities. This initiative, backed by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation, emphasizes community values and educational access, honoring the legacies of Elmer Anderson and Saima Niskanen. Eligible applicants must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher and demonstrate leadership potential.

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.

Minnesota Department of Human Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – Counties, Tribes, non-profit and for-profit providers – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS Vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities.

Request for Proposals for a Grantee to Improve Access to Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD)

DHS, through its Behavioral Health Administration, is seeking to address the public health crisis caused by escalating opioid and stimulant use, Opioid Use Disorder (OUD), Stimulant Use Disorder, and opioid and stimulant-related morbidity and mortality across the nation.

Objective of RFP

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Behavioral Health Administration (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to improve access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) services throughout Minnesota. The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for fifteen months, from August 1, 2026 until September 29, 2027. STATE may extend the contract up to a total of five (5) years.

Funding will be allocated through a competitive process. Successful Responders may only incur eligible expenditures when the grant contract agreement is fully executed and the grant has reached its effective date.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is inviting proposals for providing acute care hospital inpatient treatment for mental illness under its Fee-for-Service Continuing Care Benefit Program. This initiative aims to support individuals in achieving optimal mental health outcomes. Interested providers must review the Sample Contract and submit applications by April 1, 2024, for contracts effective from April 1, 2024, to March 31, 2029, ensuring continuity of care for those in need.

Minnesota Department of Human Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – Counties, Tribes, non-profit and for-profit providers – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS Vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities.

Request for Proposals for a Grantee to provide integrated, culturally supportive perinatal care to pregnant Black/African American and American Indian Medical Assistance enrollees who are at high risk for adverse birth outcomes

Objective of RFP

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Health Improvement and Benefit Design Division, is soliciting proposals from qualified responders to provide integrated, culturally supportive perinatal care to pregnant Black/African American and or American Indian Medical Assistance enrollees who are at high risk for adverse birth outcomes. Services must be delivered through qualified integrated perinatal care collaboratives as defined in statutes. The anticipated contract term is two (2) years, from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. The State may extend the contract for up to an additional three (3) years in one-year increments, for a total contract term not to exceed five (5) years.

Funding will be distributed through a competitive review process that includes individuals with relevant subject matter expertise, and, when appropriate, community representatives with regional knowledge. If selected, Responder may only incur eligible expenditures when the contract is fully executed, and the grant has reached its effective date.

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 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 MN Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports farmers in enhancing conservation efforts while strengthening operations. It offers technical and financial assistance to improve grazing conditions, increase crop resiliency, and develop wildlife habitats. Producers work with NRCS to create tailored conservation plans that expand on existing efforts and implement new practices. CSP also provides annual payments for these practices, helping participants achieve environmental benefits and improved agricultural productivity.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

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 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 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 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 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 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 Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Seminarian Studies, funded by UNICO Foundation Inc, offers four scholarships worth $1,000 each to full-time seminarians attending accredited Catholic seminaries in the U.S. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and either reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor. This scholarship supports the educational journey of seminarians, reflecting UNICO's commitment to serving the community and promoting Italian American heritage.

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 Inserra Scholarships, provided by the UNICO Foundation, aim to support students of Italian descent pursuing higher education. Two scholarships of $2,500 each are awarded annually to eligible candidates who are U.S. citizens attending accredited colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to empowering the Italian American community through education.

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.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture 

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.

Cream of the Crop Awards

The Minnesota Grown Cream of the Crop Awards recognizes school districts, early care centers, and family day cares that go above and beyond to promote foods grown and raised by Minnesota farmers and producers. Whether it’s through locally sourced meals served in your cafeteria, community events to connect families and farmers, or food focused classroom lessons, we want to celebrate all the creative ways you connect your students and kids to Minnesota Grown food!

Award Categories

1) Cream of the Crop Winners

One winner from each category will be selected. Scoring will be based on applicants’ promotion and procurement of Minnesota grown and raised foods during the 2025-2026school year.

• School District of the Year
• Early Care Center of the Year
• Family Day Care of the Year

2) Outstanding in the Field Honors

Additional applicants will be honored across three levels:

• Golden Drumstick Honorees
• Silver Squash Honorees
• Bronze Berry Honorees

3) Producer Appreciation Pick

Applicants will have the opportunity to nominate a Minnesota Grown producer that has been an outstanding partner in their Farm to Kids program. Reviewers will randomly select a nominated producer to be the 2026 Producer Appreciation Pick.

The Sexual and Reproductive Health Services (SRHS) grant program, established by the Minnesota Legislature in 1978, aims to enhance access to sexual and reproductive health care across Minnesota. The program addresses barriers such as poverty, discrimination, and lack of transportation. Funded biannually, SRHS supports various services including contraceptive counseling, outreach, and referrals. With an estimated annual funding of $4.5 million for new applicants, the program seeks to improve the health outcomes of marginalized communities.

Minnesota Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MnMTSS)-Competitive Grant Opportunity 

Minnesota Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MnMTSS) is a systemic, continuous improvement framework for ensuring positive social, emotional, behavioral, developmental, and academic outcomes for every student. MnMTSS provides access to layered tiers of culturally and linguistically responsive, evidence-based practices. The MnMTSS framework relies on the understanding and belief that every student can learn and thrive, and it engages an anti-bias and socially-just approach to examining policies and practices and ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunity.

The Minnesota Department of Education makes this funding available to Minnesota Local Education Agencies (LEAs) (School Districts, Charter Schools, Tribally Controlled Schools, or Cooperative Units) to build the capacity to support implementation of the MnMTSS framework in order to improve academic, behavioral and social emotional outcomes for all students.

Total amount available:

• Approximately $9,500,000

Maximum grant amount:

• Applicants that are not current MnMTSS grantees may apply for up to $250,000 for Fiscal Years 2027-28 (July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028)
• Current MnMTSS grantees may apply for up to $250,000 for Fiscal Years 2027-28 (July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028)

Minnesota Library Foundation (MLF) Scholarship

The Minnesota Library Foundation is excited to announce a new scholarship opportunity for Minnesota library staff!

MLF encourages career development by funding a scholarship for a Minnesota library staff worker to grow professionally through taking college or university courses that would lead to acquiring a degree or certificate in the library field. 

The MLF Governing Board establishes the guidelines for this scholarship and selects the recipients. The scholarship amount awarded is up to $1,000.00 per successful applicant.

CSA Midwest Region: Beth Dunlap Award

 The Midwestern Region presents The Beth Dunlap Award at the Regional Symposium. The award will be offered to a person who has made contributions worthy of the highest commendation and the achievements will have continued importance. Beth Dunlap was one of the founding members of the Midwestern Region. A fashion illustrator and artist, she passed away in 2009.

The Joyce Foundation's Journalism Grants support independent, nonpartisan reporting to address critical issues in the Great Lakes region. By investing in high-quality journalism, the Foundation aims to promote informed decision-making and strengthen community cohesion. Eligible applicants include nonprofit journalism organizations and projects that enhance local news and support early career journalists, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. The application process requires advance planning, with funding decisions made quarterly.

The Artist Equity Grant, offered by the Arrowhead Regional Arts Council, provides up to $4,000 to individual artists from underrepresented groups, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA2+, and those with disabilities. This initiative aims to promote artistic growth and amplify diverse voices through project funding. Eligible projects may encompass various artistic endeavors such as performances, exhibitions, and educational opportunities, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape that benefits all communities.

The Contamination Cleanup and Investigation Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, provides crucial funding to assist communities in assessing and remediating contaminated sites. Covering up to 75% of eligible costs, the grants support both public and private site redevelopment. Eligible applicants include cities, counties, and economic development authorities, focusing on projects that enhance the local tax base or facilitate essential public facilities.