Best Grants for Museums in Minnesota

The Arts Midwest GIG Fund offers grants ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 to support creative projects and educational events across the Midwest. This funding is available for nonprofit organizations with budgets of $1 million or less, focusing on the arts. Eligible applicants include arts organizations and tribal entities located in specific states. The fund prioritizes those who have not received a grant in the last two years, ensuring diverse cultural engagement and access.

About the Foundation 

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF), a non-profit corporation affiliated with the Minnesota Nurses Association, awards scholarships and grants each year to advance the nursing profession and create more opportunities for students to achieve their goals.About the Grant

The Minnesota Nurses Association Foundation (MNAF) provides funding to MNA members to support research focused on nursing that relate to the Minnesota Nurses Association Organizational Goals and Priorities.MNA Issues and Advocacy

• Advocacy - MNA members advocate for their patients, profession, and communities through lobbying legislators at the State Capitol and endorsing nurse champions who will support nurse priorities.
• Education - MNA offers a wide range of learning opportunities to expand your personal and professional growth through the Continuing Education Program.
• Nursing Practice - MNA promotes, guards, and advances standards of practice and advocates for the effective and appropriate understanding and implementation of professional nursing practice.

The MN AWWA Community College Scholarship offers up to two $2,000 awards annually to students enrolled in technical or community college programs that support the water industry. Applicants must have completed at least one semester in a water-related program and provide a current transcript. Preference is given to MN AWWA members and those involved in related activities. The scholarship will be awarded directly to the college, and winners are encouraged to attend the MN AWWA Annual Conference.

The Bush Prize: Native Nations honors Native-led organizations committed to innovative solutions in their communities. Grants can reach up to $500,000, covering 25% of the organization’s previous fiscal year expenses. This annual award emphasizes collaboration and resourcefulness, supporting entities that are deeply valued in their communities and have proven success in addressing challenges. The program, a partnership with four community grant partners, aims to empower organizations in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native Nations.

The Southeast Asian Economic Disparities Relief Competitive Grant aims to alleviate economic disparities within Southeast Asian communities by funding workforce recruitment, development, job creation, and capacity-building initiatives. Targeting individuals of Southeast Asian descent aged 18 and older, including Hmong, Lao, Vietnamese, and other groups, the grant seeks qualified proposals that enhance outreach and support smaller organizations in their efforts to serve these communities effectively.

The MN AWWA Advanced Degree Scholarship offers up to three $3,500 scholarships annually to students enrolled in water-related Bachelor's or Graduate degree programs. Applicants must be juniors or seniors at accredited institutions and submit necessary documentation, including transcripts. The scholarship is awarded directly to the educational institution, and winners are recognized at the MN AWWA Annual Conference, typically held in Duluth, MN each September.

The Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, aims to enhance partnerships for protecting and restoring Minnesota's water resources. With funding of $500,000 for the first year and $2,000,000 for the second year, the program supports initiatives like clean water workshops, rain gardens, and shoreline protection. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and tribal governments dedicated to improving water quality.

The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership, managed by the Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), offers pre-development grants to support planning for large-scale training projects. Aimed at enhancing workforce skills in high-demand sectors, these grants provide up to $50,000 for institutions to expand their training capacity. This initiative encourages collaboration between businesses and educational entities to address skill gaps and improve job opportunities across Minnesota.

Minnesota workforce development organizations and education–business partnerships can access funding for new and incumbent worker training through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development. DEED provides Minnesota workforce preparation and job readiness programs with up to US $400,000 to develop cooperative training projects, create new jobs, and build career pathways that may benefit museum-related employment needs.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

Minnesota meat, poultry, egg, and milk processing businesses seeking to start up, modernize, or expand facilities can access funding through the AGRI Meat, Poultry, Egg, and Milk Processing Grant. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, this program supports equipment and physical improvements that boost processing capacity, market diversification, and food safety, which may benefit museum-affiliated food programs.

Counties, municipalities, Tribal nations, and weed management entities in Minnesota can seek funding for invasive species control and noxious weed management projects. Focused on identification, monitoring, education, control, and eradication, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture offers US $500 - US $15,000 for on-the-ground work or equipment that can also benefit museum-managed lands or natural areas.

The Rupert Dunklau Foundation Grant supports organizations with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on Lutheran Higher Education, Health and Human Care, and Faith Strengthening. Since its establishment in 1968, the foundation has aimed to provide financial resources to ministries within the Lutheran tradition, particularly in Nebraska and surrounding states. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's mission to promote the welfare of mankind through educational and health initiatives.

The FY 2027 Clean Water Fund (CWF) Projects and Practices Grants Request For Proposals (RFP) is now open, and includes two programs:

Projects and Practices, and

Projects and Practices Drinking Water. 

Grants Program

The Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Clean Water Fund Competitive Grants Program supports activities that restore, protect, and enhance water quality.

This RFP includes:

• Projects and Practices
  • This grant makes an investment in on-the-ground projects and practices that will protect or restore water quality in lakes, rivers or streams, or will protect groundwater or drinking water.
  • Examples include:
    • stormwater practices,
    • agricultural conservation practices,
    • feedlot related practices,
    • lakeshore and stream bank stabilization,
    • stream restoration, and
    • SSTS upgrades.
• Drinking Water
  • This grant makes an investment in land treatment projects and practices that will protect or improve drinking water sources.
  • Surface water (streams, rivers, and lakes) and groundwater (aquifers) can both serve as sources of drinking water.

Provider Capacity Grants for Rural and Underserved Communities: Round Four

The Department of Human Services (DHS) Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division (STATE) has the authority to enter into grant contracts that will increase the number and capacity of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) providers in rural and or serving rural or underserved communities pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section 256.01, subdivision 2(a)(6). This grant opportunity is funded through the Minnesota Legislature Laws of Chapter 61 - MN Laws Section 59. PROVIDER CAPACITY GRANTS FOR RURAL AND UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES. Grant applicant represents that it is duly qualified and willing to perform the services set forth in this grant application to the satisfaction of STATE.   

Funding Requirements

The primary goals of this funding are to reduce disparities, increase access, and advance equity in the availability and delivery of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) across Minnesota. Successful capacity-building proposals must strengthen and enhance HCBS, with a particular focus on expanding existing HCBS programs’ access in rural and underserved communities. Applicants are required to clearly describe how the proposed funding will be used to build capacity, improve access, and enhance the delivery of HCBS. Proposals must also demonstrate compliance with all applicable HCBS licensing requirements and operational standards.

Grant funds will be awarded competitively to organizations that serve Medical Assistance (MA) recipients who are eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), that are enhancing/expanding existing services to serving MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Funds must be used by organizations that currently serve MA recipients eligible for HCBS. Only organizations currently licensed and enrolled in MHCP are eligible to apply for this grant funding.  

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

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.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) was created in July 2003 with the merger of the former Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development (DTED) and the Minnesota Department of Economic Security (MDES). DEED is the state's principal economic development agency. The Department's programs promote business recruitment, expansion, and retention; international trade; workforce development; and community development.

Commissioned Needs Assessment for the Minnesota Independent Living Network

Procurement Overview and Goals

The Department of Employment and Economic Development (“DEED”), Vocational Rehabilitation Services (“VRS”) requests proposals, on behalf of the Minnesota Statewide Independent Living Council (“MNSILC”) and the Centers for Independent Living (CILs), to conduct a statewide needs assessment for individuals living with disabilities.

Key objective: Determine the level of financial investment required for Centers for Independent Living to effectively and comprehensively meet the needs of individuals with disabilities throughout the state of Minnesota.

The State Park Road Account Program (SPRA) in Minnesota supports local governments in enhancing access to public recreation facilities. With approximately $5 million available annually, this program funds improvements to roads leading to state parks, lakes, and campgrounds. Eligible projects include construction and maintenance of county and city roads. Priority is given to projects that enhance outdoor recreation access and address safety issues, with costs reimbursable up to 100% for eligible expenses.

The Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Trails Assistance Program, known as Grant-in-Aid (GIA), supports the development and maintenance of trails for All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), Off-Highway Motorcycles (OHMs), and Off-Road Vehicles (ORVs). Established in 1984 by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, it funds projects through vehicle registration fees and gas tax contributions. Enthusiast groups and local governments collaborate to enhance trail systems, ensuring access and safety for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Minnesota Snowmobile Trails Assistance Program, administered by the Department of Natural Resources, supports the maintenance and grooming of over 21,000 miles of snowmobile trails. Established in 1973, this grants-in-aid program ensures that local governments maintain these trails throughout the year. Funding is primarily allocated for grooming services, helping to keep trails safe and accessible for users. Additionally, this program offers trail improvement grants, fostering better recreational opportunities for snowmobilers.

The Clean Vessel Act Grants (CVA) provide funding to enhance marina sanitation facilities, ensuring better sanitary disposal options for boaters. Established by the Clean Vessel Act of 1992, this program aims to maintain water quality in public waters by supporting the development or improvement of essential sanitation infrastructure, such as pump-out stations and floating restrooms. Eligible applicants include public and private marinas registered with the Minnesota Secretary of State.

The County Boat and Water Safety Grants aim to support county sheriff's offices in funding boat and water safety programs. This initiative seeks to reduce accidents, injuries, and property damage on state waters. The grants cover up to 100% of eligible costs for various safety activities and have been ongoing since the 1960s. Counties can apply for funding to enhance their patrol and safety measures, ensuring a safer environment for all water users.

The Public Water Access Sites Partnership Funding program offers essential financial and technical support for public water access and state water trail projects. This initiative prioritizes repairs, rehabilitation, and the development of new facilities, including access sites and state water trail campsites. Eligible applicants include local government units such as counties and townships, enhancing public access to water resources across Minnesota.

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 George Waters Grant Program, established by the Minnesota Section PGA, aims to support PGA Professionals and related golf programs focusing on player development, especially for juniors and athletes with disabilities. This initiative honors George Waters, a dedicated PGA member, and helps fulfill his vision of growing the game. Grants cover teaching costs, infrastructure, and special assistance, encouraging wider participation in golf across Minnesota and North Dakota.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.