Best Grants for the Arts in Minnesota

The Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation, established in 2022, is dedicated to enhancing lives in rural Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado through grants exceeding $10,000. It supports nonprofits and government entities focused on food, shelter, healthcare, education, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives that enrich communities and improve access to essential services, while maintaining a commitment to assisting veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.

The 2025 Vilcek Foundation Grants aim to support nonprofit organizations that celebrate immigrant contributions to the arts and sciences. The foundation invites applications from organizations operating under U.S. IRS Section 501(c)(3) that promote diversity and inclusivity. Grants will be prioritized for new partners and those in states without prior funding. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering appreciation for immigrant communities and their impact on society.

The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.

The RAF Better Communities Grants provide vital funding to nonprofits in the Rochester, MN area, focusing on youth, education, and vibrant community development. These grants empower organizations to enhance their core missions and build capacity for future growth. With awards ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, the program also aims to support emerging nonprofits. The Rochester Area Foundation emphasizes equity, collaboration, and responsible stewardship in its grantmaking practices.

The Rural Placemaking Grants by the Blandin Foundation aim to enhance the quality of life in the most diverse and underserved rural communities. By promoting community engagement through creative initiatives, this program seeks to foster pride and connection among residents. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $150,000, addressing projects that uplift local civic spaces and encourage participation from marginalized groups, contributing to overall community well-being and economic growth.

The Small Communities Grant Program by the Blandin Foundation aims to empower Minnesota's smallest, most diverse, and economically challenged communities by providing essential funding for projects that enhance community well-being. By fostering collaboration and trust among residents, the program seeks to drive meaningful economic, social, and physical changes. Grant awards typically range from $25,000 to $150,000, with a focus on sustainable initiatives that build local capacity and pride.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Creation & Development Fund, administered by the National Performance Network, supports the creation and mobility of artistic works that promote racial and cultural justice. It fosters collaboration between artists and communities through financial support, enabling artists to develop meaningful relationships and present their work. The fund emphasizes equity, access, and the importance of public engagement, ensuring that diverse voices are represented while addressing systemic injustices in the arts.

The Vilcek Foundation's 2026 Prizes for Creative Promise in Fashion & Design and Fashion & Culture will award six $50,000 prizes to young immigrant professionals. This initiative recognizes early- and mid-career creatives in fields such as fashion design, writing, and styling, highlighting the vital contributions of immigrants to the arts in the U.S. Eligible applicants must have at least five years of experience and intend to pursue their careers in the country.

BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.

The Valley Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Santa Clara County and beyond by supporting qualified 501(c)(3) organizations. Focused on educational, historical, and preservation initiatives, the Foundation provides essential funding to groups dedicated to societal improvement. By fostering partnerships with like-minded entities, The Valley Foundation strives to create lasting positive change through its grant-making efforts.

The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, established by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has distributed over $16.3 million in grants since 1999. It supports charitable organizations and local governments in eleven Oregon counties, as well as Native American initiatives across the U.S. The fund prioritizes education, health, public safety, addiction prevention, housing, arts, and environmental preservation, ensuring the Tribe's commitment to community support and cultural heritage.

The Share the Bounty Grant, offered by The Andersons Inc Charitable Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities through support for agriculture, social services, civic engagement, education, arts, and health initiatives. By investing in these key areas, The Andersons seeks to foster environments where individuals and families can thrive, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for all residents in the regions they serve.

The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to enhance community quality of life across 28 states, focusing on educational, cultural, and social service initiatives. With over $150 million contributed since 2000, the foundation emphasizes projects with strong local engagement and BNSF employee involvement. Eligible organizations include public charities, local governments, and tribal governments, while ineligible entities encompass religious organizations and those with discriminatory practices. Priority is given to environmental, health, and cultural projects.

The WACF - New London Spicer Area Fund Grant supports community advancements through citizen participation and professional management. As a fund of the Willmar Area Community Foundation, it focuses on arts, healthy lifestyles, environmental sustainability, and collaborative initiatives. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, while it avoids funding individuals, political campaigns, and completed projects. The grant emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and equity in funded projects.

The Sauk Centre Area Arts Grants, provided by CommunityGiving, aim to enhance arts and cultural activities in the Sauk Centre area. These grants support a variety of projects, including visual and performing arts, and prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement and accessibility for disadvantaged populations. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, with a focus on promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the arts.

The FM Area Foundation's Community Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Cass County, ND, and Clay County, MN, addressing diverse community needs. Grants ranging from $500 to $15,000 are available for projects in areas like arts, education, and basic human needs. Applications are reviewed based on community impact, collaboration, and capacity. Nonprofits must be IRS-approved 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities, with one application accepted per year.

The Chapman Prize, established by the Daniel and Barbara Chapman Trust, honors individuals and organizations making significant contributions to American society. Each year, the award focuses on a theme; in 2025, it will spotlight Economic Prosperity. Eligible applicants include U.S. citizens and nonprofits with three years of charitable work demonstrating impact in the chosen field. Approximately $100,000 will be awarded annually to support endeavors that enhance economic prosperity through various initiatives.

The Unity for Humanity Grant invites innovative creators to submit impact-driven projects that utilize real-time 3D technology. This annual grant provides funding, technical support, and marketing resources to help bring visionary ideas to life. Projects must align with UN Sustainable Development Goals and demonstrate measurable impact. Eligible submissions include prototypes across various genres, fostering a more inclusive and sustainable world. Join us in empowering changemakers to make a positive global difference.

The Roseau Area Community Fund Grant offers up to $8,100 for projects enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors in the Roseau School District area. Funded by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, it supports nonprofits and public entities in diverse areas such as leisure, arts, and education. Applications are encouraged for inclusive projects that serve a broad range of participants, fostering community empowerment and growth. This initiative aims to connect people with opportunities in Northwest Minnesota.

The Quick Support for Organizations Grant, offered by the Southwest Minnesota Arts Council, provides up to $2,500 for various arts-related projects. Eligible activities include planning for public art projects, small arts initiatives, and organizational development. The grant is designed to help organizations enhance their capacity to serve the arts community, with no cash match required. Applications are accepted monthly from August 2025 to May 2026, with a board review on the fourth Tuesday of each month.

The Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council is offering the K-12 School Arts Project Grant to support artist residencies, live performances, mini-workshops, and arts-related field trips for students. Grants range from $500 to $3,000 and are available from July 2025 to March 2026, with monthly deadlines on the 1st, excluding December and January. This initiative aims to enhance access to diverse art forms and improve community quality of life.

The Critical Needs List by Community Foundation Tampa Bay addresses urgent, unforeseen needs of nonprofits that threaten their ability to serve the community. This innovative program allows nonprofits to submit requests for funding up to $250,000 for critical expenses such as emergency repairs and essential equipment replacement. With a focus on supporting local organizations, the program aims to match funding with community philanthropists, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Community Leadership Fund provides essential support for leadership development in Muhlenberg County, KY. It aims to empower individuals and groups seeking innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible applicants include those pursuing personal leadership growth or researching effective community strategies. The fund underscores inclusivity, welcoming diverse applicants without discrimination. This initiative fosters a vibrant community by equipping leaders with the resources needed to effect positive change.

The Arts Organization Development Grant offers up to $10,000 for nonprofit arts organizations in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties. This funding supports activities that enhance organizational sustainability, growth, and improve access to the arts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and arts groups seeking nonprofit status. The grant promotes a vibrant arts community, ensuring diverse artistic expression and fostering collaboration while enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.

The Indigo Oak Fund is a Colorado-based foundation dedicated to empowering individuals through support for education, the arts, and social justice. Focused on fostering lifelong learning and creative expression, the Fund aids various programs that enhance community engagement. It supports both youth and adult initiatives, including classes and community events in diverse artistic disciplines. By prioritizing equal opportunity and personal potential, the Fund strives to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and the community.

The Season/Series Arts Support Grant is designed to assist arts organizations in Minnesota's Beltrami, Hubbard, Clearwater, Lake of the Woods, and Mahnomen counties. It allows for a single application to fund multiple arts activities, aiming to save time and resources for nonprofits. Eligible proposals include public arts projects, educational performances, and community engagement initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to expanding arts programming and removing barriers to access.