Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Pediatric Primary Care Mental Health Training Grant Program, established by Minnesota Statutes Sec. 144.1509, aims to enhance pediatric mental health training within outpatient primary care clinics. This initiative seeks to bolster the skills, confidence, and awareness of mental health resources among providers. Ultimately, the program aspires for pediatric patients to receive improved, timely, and continuous mental health care in participating clinics, addressing their unique healthcare needs effectively.

The Career & Technical Education (CTE) Impact Funding program aims to enhance career exploration for students in grades 5-12 across a diverse region. By fostering partnerships with local businesses and industries, the initiative supports the development of new CTE programs and pathways. It focuses on equipping students with essential technical skills, increasing awareness of CTE opportunities, and ensuring equitable access to career-connected learning experiences, ultimately preparing them for future success in their careers and higher education.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The CSA Midwest Region: Otto Thieme Memorial Internship provides a unique opportunity for students to engage in a hands-on curatorial experience with costume collections at Midwestern museums, historical societies, or universities. Awarded a $2000 stipend for an eight-week internship, students will gain valuable mentorship and training in the field of costume. This program honors Otto Charles Thieme, an influential figure in costume scholarship, enhancing students' academic pursuits while fostering appreciation for historic costumes.

The Lead and Healthy Homes Program - Swab Team Services Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Health, provides funding for swab team services to mitigate lead hazards for the 2026-27 biennium. Grant activities include education, blood lead testing, and practical interventions like soil replacement and dust removal. With a total funding of up to $958,000, the program aims to protect communities from lead exposure through effective interim controls.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Classroom-Focused Project Grants support licensed educators in enhancing their teaching practices and student outcomes, with funding up to $3,000 for innovative projects. This opportunity is designed for both first-time applicants and previous recipients looking to build on their past successes. Eligible applicants must be active members of Education Minnesota and demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion in their projects. Grants are awarded annually, emphasizing measurable results and collaborative efforts.

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 LRAC Legacy Individual Grants offer up to $6,000 for individual artists in Minnesota's nine-county region, promoting arts access, learning, and cultural heritage. Eligible projects include public art production, artist residencies in schools, performances, educational experiences, workshops, and exhibits. First-time applicants are encouraged to contact LRAC for guidance before applying, ensuring they understand the program's requirements and maximize their chances for funding.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The René M. Vandervelde Research Grant, offered by the Association of Applied Paleontological Sciences, provides $1000 annually to support students and researchers in marine paleontology, geology, or stratigraphy of the Late Cretaceous Pierre and Bearpaw Shales in North America. Established in 2007 with the support of Korite® International, the grant aims to promote scientific research and publications about the unique fauna and flora found in these geological deposits.

The MN State Arts Board - Arts Education Grant supports arts learning experiences for individuals of all ages and abilities in Minnesota. This pilot program funds various projects, including classes, workshops, and arts education in community settings, aiming to foster creativity and artistic skills. The Arts Board seeks to empower applicants to design impactful projects that encourage personal relationships with art forms, ultimately enhancing the state's cultural landscape.

The Great American Cleanup Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to enhance community beautification and environmental efforts across the U.S. This initiative encourages KAB affiliates to remove litter, plant greenery, and restore public spaces, contributing to the larger goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by 2026. With cash grants available, this program fosters collaboration among communities, promoting sustainable practices and a cleaner, greener future for all.

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.

Background

The federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) was created by H.R.1 (Section 71401 of Public Law 119-21) on July 4, 2025. It is a federal initiative to help states support rural communities in improving health care access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the health care delivery ecosystem. The RHTP focuses on promoting innovation, strategic partnerships, infrastructure development, and workforce investment in rural communities. The federal program will grant up to $50 billion to states over five budget periods.

This RFP focuses on the development of community telehealth access points (TAPs). TAPs are dedicated spaces in community locations where members of the public may access telehealth appointments. TAPs may be located at sites such as schools, pharmacies, local public health offices, long-term care facilities, libraries, community-based organizations, and Tribal health clinics or other Tribal offices. Telehealth services provided at TAPs may include, for example, screenings, provider consultations, and remote visits for primary care, behavioral health, and oral health. TAPs increase access to timely, high-quality health care for rural residents who may not have a health care facility nearby or broadband service at home, or who may feel more comfortable seeking care in a trusted community setting. All applicants must be located in Minnesota, and the TAP must be located in a rural community. 

Women In Northfield Giving Support

WINGS inspires women in philanthropy, builds and strengthens community through pooled investments, and supports women and youth in the Northfield area through focused giving.

Grant Process

Overview

WINGS grants support programs that contribute to the health, safety, education, socialization, artistic growth, and economic stability of the Northfield area. WINGS grants, which are awarded to both new and existing projects, encourage innovative initiatives. In awarding grants, WINGS considers not only financial need, but also the immediate impact of the project and the ability of the project to build future capacity.

Guidelines

WINGS seeks projects with an emphasis on the following areas:

Basic Needs

Education

Physical and Mental Health

The Minnesota Department of Education makes this funding available to Minnesota public schools districts, charter schools, tribally controlled schools, and service cooperatives for the purpose of providing start-up and ongoing support of P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) schools, established as a public- private partnership, that will prepare students for high skills jobs of the future in identified growth industries.The P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) model integrates high school, college, and industry through partnerships among school districts, community colleges, and employers. With a focus on Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields, it combines rigorous academics, workplace learning, mentoring, and internships. 

The Low Income Worker Training Program, offered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, provides essential job-specific training grants of up to $200,000 for entities helping low-income individuals. This initiative aims to enhance workforce development by enabling individuals earning at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines to acquire skills necessary for higher-paying jobs. The program supports training-related materials and certification fees, promoting economic self-sufficiency in Minnesota.

The Good Relatives Collaborative Grants, funded by the Bush Foundation, aim to empower grassroots and Native-led organizations across Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations. This initiative provides responsive grants of $50,000 and $100,000 to support community leadership, healing, and cultural revitalization. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the program seeks to address the unique needs of Native communities while promoting accessible philanthropy and sustainable growth.

MN Nonprofit security grant program (NSGP)

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) provides funding for physical security enhancements and other security-related activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack. The NSGP also seeks to integrate the preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations with broader state and local preparedness efforts.

Funding

• Organizations within the Twin Cities Urban Area are applying on a competitive basis with organizations from designated urban areas nationwide
• The Target Allocation assigned to Minnesota for statewide/outstate funding is $2,400,000
• Organizations outside of the urban area are designated to apply for the target allocation funding
• NSGP Applicants may apply for up to $200,000 per site
• Applicants with multiple sites may apply for up to 

The MHC Community Identity & Heritage Festival Grants support diverse cultural communities in Minnesota by funding community events, music and jazz festivals, and cultural festivals featuring art installations and performances. These grants aim to enhance cultural engagement and celebrate the rich heritage of local communities, providing opportunities for individuals and organizations to showcase their artistic talents and foster community connections through vibrant festivals.

The AGRI Meat, Poultry, Egg, and Milk Processing Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, supports the startup, modernization, or expansion of processing businesses in these sectors. By investing in essential equipment and improvements, this grant aims to boost sales of Minnesota-raised livestock products and enhance market access. Priority is given to projects that expand processing capacity, improve food safety, and serve historically underserved communities.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is inviting proposals for a project aimed at enhancing discharge planning for children and young adults with complex service needs. This initiative focuses on creating a technical assistance model that involves assessing current systems, developing standardized frameworks, and implementing support strategies. The goal is to improve transitions from high-acuity inpatient settings to community-based care, ensuring better outcomes for affected youth and their families.

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 Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) offers the Cooperative Development Grant Program (CDG), a competitive funding opportunity aimed at assisting farmers in establishing new cooperatives. These cooperatives focus on operating agricultural product processing facilities or marketing agricultural products and services. With over 125 years of service, MDA is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all Minnesotans by ensuring a safe food supply and a robust agricultural economy.