Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in Minnesota

The Community Grants Program by the Butler Family Foundation supports organizations focused on environmental stewardship in Minnesota. Grants of $30,000 annually for general support or $20,000 for specific projects are available for 501(c)(3) organizations with budgets over $300,000. The program emphasizes land and water protection, aiming to educate youth on sustainable practices. This initiative seeks to foster community involvement in preserving Minnesota's natural resources.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Amgen is a leading biotechnology company dedicated to advancing medicine through Independent Medical Education (IME). It funds accredited educational programs that empower healthcare providers to enhance patient care. IME funding supports critical areas such as oncology, bone health, cardiovascular education, and more. Amgen's commitment ensures that these educational activities remain unbiased and compliant with applicable guidelines, fostering innovation and improved health outcomes for patients worldwide.

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.

National Geographic Society: Request for Proposals

Award Overview

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for academic researchers and graduate students investigating topics related to geography education in select states and locations. Awards of up to $10,000 (for researchers) and $5,000 (for graduate students) are available to support research projects.

At NGS we spark curiosity, empower exploration, and inspire change. We fund inspiring changemakers around the world who use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. 

We welcome submissions from researchers across disciplines but successful proposals must include research related to educational approaches or processes including but not limited to specific learning activities, learning outcomes, or educational tools that advance knowledge. Research that illuminates barriers and/or advances access for those farthest from opportunity is encouraged. 

Research proposals should generate new knowledge, and can either be new or scaled up versions of existing successful projects (e.g. evaluating a different group of learners or geographic area). 

The ECRAC Resiliency Grant for Arts Organizations provides funding of up to $600 for artists and organizations to support their projects affected by the pandemic and racial disparities. This grant is available until June 30, 2026, or until funds are depleted, and is open to past, current, or new grantees. Eligible projects can include various art forms such as performance, dance, photography, and more, as long as they comply with public health guidelines.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Target Foundation's Hometown Racial Equity Grant aims to advance racial equity for underserved communities in the Twin Cities. With over a century of commitment to social responsibility, the Foundation addresses systemic barriers by investing in entrepreneurship, workforce development, housing, and asset building. By supporting BIPOC-led organizations, the Foundation seeks to create equitable economic opportunities, ensuring that all families can thrive and contribute to a vibrant community. Grants range from $25,000 to $200,000, focusing on sustainable impact.

The Doris Duke Foundation's Environment Program grants aim to foster a resilient environment through effective conservation efforts. By supporting U.S. nonprofit organizations, the foundation seeks to protect biodiversity, address climate change, and advance equity, particularly for marginalized communities. The program emphasizes land conservation, natural climate solutions, and inclusive practices, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the health of ecosystems and communities across the United States.

The F26AS00085 Aquatic Invasive Species Interjurisdictional Grants, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support interjurisdictional projects addressing aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and tribes, focusing on action-oriented projects that enhance regional priorities. The initiative will fund both sustaining projects, which build on previous efforts, and new projects that present innovative solutions for effective management and prevention of aquatic invasive species.

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 Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is launching the Small Business Assistance Partnerships Program to provide no-cost development and technical assistance services to entrepreneurs, focusing on underserved populations. This initiative aims to foster job growth and support the economic success of diverse Minnesota communities, including Black, Indigenous, and low-income individuals. Proposals are sought from organizations and coalitions to enhance small business growth and innovation throughout the state.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Nordson Corporation Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in communities across the U.S., particularly through education. Since 1989, it has awarded over $60 million, prioritizing grants for tax-exempt organizations in areas where Nordson operates. The foundation emphasizes long-term community needs, supporting initiatives in education, human welfare, civic affairs, and the arts. Its commitment includes funding general operating support for nonprofits, ensuring they can measure program effectiveness and foster self-sufficiency.

The Sigma Xi Grants-in-Aid of Research Program, celebrating 100 years of supporting research, offers financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students. Members can receive grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, while non-members can apply for up to $1,000. Additionally, there are specific funds available for astronomy and vision-related research. This program fosters collaboration between students and mentors, promoting scientific excellence through hands-on experience.

The Clean Water Revolving Fund in Minnesota provides below-market-rate loans to support communities in upgrading wastewater treatment facilities to meet federal standards. Managed by the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, the fund aims to enhance water quality and public health. Eligible applicants include cities and counties, with specific project requirements and loan terms based on population size. The program promotes financial responsibility and environmental compliance, ensuring sustainable water management.

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) 

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is committed to ensuring that every Minnesotan has healthy air, sustainable lands, clean water, and a better climate.

Through the authority of state and federal statutes and guidelines, the MPCA focuses on preventing and reducing the pollution of air, land, and water, and leads Minnesota’s efforts to protect against the devastating effects of climate change. We work with regulated parties, businesses, governments, organizations, and 11 Tribal Nations in Minnesota to develop innovative, community-centered approaches that protect our natural resources, improve human health, and foster strong economic growth.

Statewide Environmental Assistance Grants - Fiscal years 2026-2028

The MPCA is offering approximately $250,000 in grant funding to help Minnesota governments, businesses, institutions, and organizations address two specific needs:

• reuse materials to reduce waste
• reduce toxic chemicals in hair products

This program's primary goals are to

• reduce waste generated in Minnesota,
• reduce greenhouse gases emitted by manufacturing new items, and
• eliminate toxic chemicals and metals from hair products to protect human health and the environment.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

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 Primary Care Residency Expansion Grant Program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1506, aims to establish new primary care residency programs and train eligible residents in Minnesota. This initiative addresses the shortage of primary care physicians, enhancing access to healthcare in rural and underserved communities. Approximately $1.9 million will be available this grant cycle, with awards ranging from $75,000 to $400,000 to support these essential programs.

Associated Bank Community Grants focus on enhancing the well-being of communities through charitable donations. Allocating 1% of annual pretax profits, the bank supports programs benefiting low- to moderate-income individuals and families. Philanthropic priorities include affordable housing, small business development, workforce development, sustainability, and racial/social equity. The bank collaborates with nonprofit organizations that align with its values, ensuring meaningful contributions to community growth and improvement.

Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is committed to ensuring that every Minnesotan has healthy air, sustainable lands, clean water, and a better climate.

Through the authority of state and federal statutes and guidelines, the MPCA focuses on preventing and reducing the pollution of air, land, and water, and leads Minnesota’s efforts to protect against the devastating effects of climate change. We work with regulated parties, businesses, governments, organizations, and 11 Tribal Nations in Minnesota to develop innovative, community-centered approaches that protect our natural resources, improve human health, and foster strong economic growth.

Statewide recycling market development grants

The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is accepting grant applications for projects that will build lasting capacity to support recycling markets in Minnesota. The grant money must help Minnesota businesses and other entities to use recyclable material in their products, thereby increasing local demand for recyclable material. Grant money also can be used to process recyclable material into a higher value material for use in new products.

Recycling is a cost-effective way to handle waste, and it has social, economic, and environmental benefits. We need recycling markets to help create and maintain demand for recyclables. Without these end markets that use or process a recyclable material, we do not have recycling. 

Available funds

Approximately $800,000 is available. The minimum individual grant amount should be no less than $50,000. The maximum individual grant amount is $300,000. Grantees will be required to provide a 20% match of the grant award (cash or in-kind).

The RBC Foundation Grants prioritize support for youth-focused programs in the Minneapolis & St. Paul area, targeting ages 15-29. Emphasis is placed on initiatives that enhance work-integrated learning, address skills gaps, and promote access to critical educational opportunities. Additionally, the Foundation invests in arts and culture, supporting emerging artists and programs that foster community engagement. Health grants focus on youth mental well-being, ensuring access to necessary care through innovative navigation and technology-based solutions.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services is seeking proposals for psychiatric residential treatment services for individuals under 21, addressing complex mental health needs. This initiative is aimed at new providers looking to become Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF) sites, with contracts anticipated to last from December 1, 2025, to June 30, 2027, potentially extendable for up to five years. This RFP represents a critical step in enhancing mental health support for youth in Minnesota.

The Home and Community-Based Services Employee Scholarship Grant and Loan Forgiveness Program, established by the Minnesota Department of Health, aims to strengthen the workforce in the HCBS sector. This initiative provides financial support for employees pursuing further education and training, while also offering loan forgiveness for qualified educational expenses. By enhancing the skills of the workforce, the program seeks to improve the quality of care in home and community-based services across Minnesota.