Best Health and Wellness Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $49,999 to support community health initiatives. Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration and addressing social needs to foster well-being. Eligible organizations include non-profits, schools, and government agencies. The fund prioritizes projects that align with the Community Health Improvement Plan, focusing on health equity, civic engagement, and neighborhood enhancement. This initiative aims to empower communities and improve health outcomes while fostering corporate social responsibility.

CentraCare Health System, rooted in 1886, is a leading not-for-profit health system in Central Minnesota. With a mission focused on patient care, CentraCare contributes to the community through charitable donations and support for local organizations. Prioritizing health, wellness, and community education, they strive to enhance the quality of life for residents in their service areas, demonstrating a commitment to improving overall community well-being.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

Request for Proposals for a Grantee to Participate in a Community Based, Peer Supported Drop-In Center Pilot Program

Objective of RFP

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Integrated Services Section in the Behavioral Health Administration (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified responders (“Responders”) to participate in a Community Based, Peer Supported Drop-In Center Pilot Program. The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for three (3) years, from January 1st , 2027.

Background

STATE is launching this Request for Proposals (RFP) to test proof of concept for community-based, peer supported drop-in center programs that support individuals with Serious Mental Illness (SMI), as defined in 42 C.F.R. § 483.102(b)(1). This RFP’s goals include, but are not limited to, deepening exploration and research into service design that can be transferred across different Minnesota populations and geographic regions; developing internal controls to ensure program integrity while effectively safeguarding for fraud, waste, and abuse; and assessing utilization management to inform fiscal modeling and scalability of the programs across Minnesota. This drop-in center model pilot program will provide peer-driven, non-clinical, and recovery-oriented psychosocial support. The selected Responders to this RFP (“Grantee(s)”) will work with STATE to gather specific data as outlined in this Request for Proposals below. To obtain a true representation of the psychosocial support needs throughout Minnesota, this project aims to include at least one Grantee provider from each of the following categories: Tribal Nation and/or Urban Indian Organization, metropolitan area, and greater Minnesota.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation

The FM Area Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation created by and for the people of Cass County, North Dakota, and Clay County, Minnesota. The FM Area Foundation helps people give back to the causes they care about and ensures the community’s needs are addressed now and in the future. Working in partnership with individuals, families, businesses, and professional advisors, the FM Area Foundation manages more than 500 charitable funds and provides grants to qualified nonprofit organizations and causes.

Elmer & Kaya Berg Grant Round

The Elmer & Kaya Berg Grant Round honors a legacy of generosity rooted in supporting basic human needs, education, and health and wellness. Through the Elmer & Kaya Berg Giving Fund at the FM Area Foundation, this grant round continues their commitment by investing in organizations working in the areas they cared about most.

Guidelines

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for funding to support meaningful programs and projects in our community. Organizations may submit one application per calendar year and will be asked to choose a single focus area: Basic Human Needs, Education, Health & Wellness, or Suicide Education & Prevention. Funding is intended for specific, existing programs or projects rather than general operating support. If you’re unsure which focus area is the best fit, we encourage you to reach out before applying.

About the MMA

As a non-profit professional association representing physicians, residents, and medical students, the MMA ensures that physicians are helping to shape the decisions that affect your patients, your practice and your profession.

MMA Foundation Healthiest State in the Nation Grant Program

Supporting physician-led solutions to make Minnesota the healthiest state

Pilot grant program supporting high-impact, physician-led community health initiatives across Minnesota.

This is an invitation-based pilot program.

Nominations are limited to MMA and MMA Foundation leadership (Board members, Trustees, and designated staff).

Funding

• Up to $5,000 per project 
• Up to two projects funded in 2026 
• One-year grant period 

About the Program

The MMA Foundation’s Healthiest State in the Nation Grant Program supports a small number of high-impact, physician-led or physician-informed projects that advance community health across Minnesota.

Projects may be new or existing initiatives but must represent a clearly defined effort or expansion that can be completed within one year.

This pilot reflects the Foundation’s role as the MMA’s philanthropic partner—supporting physician-led solutions that improve health outcomes and advance the shared goal of making Minnesota the healthiest state and best place to practice.

Strategic Alignment

Projects must align with at least one of the Foundation’s strategic priorities:

• Catalyze optimal health for all 
• Foster well-being for physicians and physicians in training 
• Promote the profession and support diversification of the future physician workforce 

Use of Funds

Funds may support:

• Program materials 
• Outreach and engagement 
• Project coordination 
• Evaluation 

The Minnesota Department of Education makes this funding available to interested Minnesota Public School Districts, Charter Schools, and Tribally Controlled Schools for the purpose of elevating youth engagement in school environments and/or practices that enhance young peoples’ wellbeing and school experience.This is an opportunity for a school(s)/district to have a student led health and wellbeing project focused on one or more areas of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model creating environments and/or practices that enhance young peoples’ wellbeing and school experience. This grant opportunity does prioritize the non-traditional student who may attend state-approved alternative programs, such as Area Learning Centers, Alternative Learning Programs, and Contract Alternative Programs.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Canfor Good Things Come From Trees Foundation is dedicated to fostering equitable and sustainable community initiatives across Canada and the US. By providing scholarships for students pursuing careers in forestry and sustainability, funding health and well-being projects, and investing in environmental protection, the foundation aims to create lasting impacts. Their commitment ensures future generations are empowered while promoting cultural awareness and resilience through community-driven projects.

The Lakes Area Medical Development Association Fund, managed by the Initiative Foundation, supports health and wellness projects in the Brainerd Lakes area of Central Minnesota. This fund provides grants for capacity-building initiatives aimed at government units and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The Initiative Foundation encourages applications on a rolling basis, ensuring a competitive review process for quarterly awards to foster a thriving economy and vibrant communities.

The SHAPE America: Joy of Effort Award recognizes dedicated individuals who exemplify the spirit of commitment and passion in health and physical education. Awardees are current SHAPE America members with at least three years of membership, demonstrating excellence in teaching, coaching, or leadership. This prestigious award celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the field, inspiring others to lead healthy, active lives through their efforts in education and advocacy.

The SHAPE America Major of the Year Award recognizes exemplary undergraduate students in health, physical education, recreation, and dance. This prestigious accolade aims to highlight nominees who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to service within their communities. Faculty members from colleges and universities are encouraged to nominate one outstanding student per major, ensuring that the next generation of health educators is celebrated for their achievements and contributions to the field.

The Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, established in 1951 in Oklahoma, aims to support charitable organizations across the U.S., with a focus on education and local initiatives. Grants are awarded to qualified 501(C)(3) organizations, prioritizing projects that align with the foundation's mission in areas such as education, health, arts, and literacy. Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for funding, ensuring alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship, established by SHAPE America, honors outstanding graduate students in health and physical education. Awarded annually since 1995, it recognizes two graduate recipients based on academic excellence and leadership. Along with financial support, winners receive a three-year SHAPE America membership, enhancing their professional network. This scholarship underscores the organization's commitment to advancing health education and supporting future leaders in the field.

The Ruth Abernathy Presidential Scholarship is awarded annually by SHAPE America to honor outstanding undergraduate and graduate students in health and physical education. Established in 1995, this scholarship supports three undergraduate and two graduate recipients. Candidates must be SHAPE America members, majoring in relevant fields, and demonstrate academic excellence and leadership. In addition to financial support, recipients receive a three-year membership to SHAPE America, fostering a commitment to health education and physical activity.

The What’s Your Gap Grant, provided by BreatheStrong CF in partnership with the Closing the Gap Foundation, supports teens and adults living with cystic fibrosis. This grant alleviates financial barriers, allowing recipients to pursue health and wellness opportunities tailored to their individual goals. It aims to empower applicants who envision a healthier lifestyle but face challenges in achieving it, serving as a catalyst for positive change in their lives.

The Hackensack Lakes Area Community Foundation, under the Initiative Foundation, provides grants to empower Central Minnesota communities. It focuses on projects that promote community development, environmental sustainability, and health. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units serving the Hackensack area. The foundation encourages collaboration with local organizations for innovative ideas, ensuring a lasting culture of generosity. Applications are accepted continuously, with quarterly awards based on a competitive review.

The Indigenous Tomorrows Fund (ITF) is a youth-led initiative by Native Americans in Philanthropy aimed at supporting Indigenous youth leadership and community-driven solutions. In its 2025 pilot year, ITF will award up to 24 grants of $30,000 each to projects that enhance cultural continuity and sustainable futures. Priorities include promoting food justice, advancing community health, and strengthening cultural connections, particularly those addressing inequity and fostering long-term healing.

We support community programs that promote health, education, and human dignity.

The Alfred H. Lander and Janet L. Lander Family Charitable Foundation is a qualified 501(c)(3) private operating foundation that conducts charitable work that meets our mission statement. The Foundation seeks to uplift individuals and families through community programming in the following three areas:

• Programs promoting and supporting the physical and mental health of the community through fitness opportunities and access to services, resources, and qualified care providers.
• Educational programs providing a strong foundation for learning at all ages and levels, including those that improve workforce placement and success.
• Programs assisting individuals and families in meeting basic needs and include a pathway for upward mobility.

The AE Foundation Community Grants aim to support US and Canadian non-profit organizations focused on enhancing the mental health and well-being of young people. By funding local programs, the AE Foundation empowers teens and young adults to embrace authenticity and build a brighter future. Eligible organizations must be certified 501(c)3 non-profits or registered charities, and grant funding should be utilized within 365 days of receipt. This initiative reinforces the importance of mental health in today's society.

The Memorial Hospital Foundation Grant aims to strengthen communities in Greater Isanti County through support for innovative health and wellness programs initiated by local non-profit organizations. This grant encourages community involvement and volunteerism, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse talents contribute to positive change. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, local government units, and community groups, all working towards enhancing health outcomes in the region.

The WWT Foundation Grant aims to empower organizations aligned with the foundation's values, focusing on community service, employee engagement, and business impact. Key areas of support include career readiness, STEM education, human services, and health and wellness. Eligible organizations must be located in the U.S. and registered as 501(c)(3). Applications are accepted year-round, allowing for flexible engagement and support for impactful community initiatives.

The Morrison County Area Foundation Grant, supported by the Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for Morrison County residents. It prioritizes funding for education, health initiatives, and community development programs that foster inclusivity. Grants can go up to $2,000, covering 50% of project costs. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, local governments, and community groups that directly benefit the community, while avoiding support for individual or business grants.

The Athene Charitable Foundation focuses on corporate social responsibility through community involvement, aiming to create positive social impacts in education, health, human services, and the environment. Their initiatives include partnerships, employee volunteering, and donations aligned with their mission. They prioritize organizations that support diversity and inclusion while ensuring compliance with their non-discrimination policies. Eligible entities must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or equivalent, enhancing community welfare where Athene employees live and work.

The Get Out and Get Active Grant by the Anxiety & Depression Initiative supports innovative projects that promote the mental health benefits of physical activity. This funding aims to reduce anxiety and depression through community fitness programs and educational campaigns, emphasizing the intersection of physical activity and mental health. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and academic institutions in the U.S. seeking to enhance well-being and integrate active lifestyles for individuals living with mental illness.

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.