Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Food Retail Improvement and Development Grant (FRIDG) Program by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture aims to enhance access to affordable, nutritious food in underserved communities. This program provides up to $50,000 in competitive grants for equipment purchases and facility improvements. Eligible projects include grocery stores and small food retailers, focusing on increasing the availability of culturally appropriate food. The initiative supports sustainable public-private partnerships to improve food access and consumption in low-income areas.

The AGRI Sustainable Agriculture Demonstration Grant Program supports innovative research and demonstrations in sustainable agriculture. It prioritizes projects that enhance profitability, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Eligible projects include practices such as conservation tillage, integrated pest management, and energy-efficient farming. The program encourages participation from farmers and historically underserved communities, aiming to foster diverse agricultural practices and improve marketing opportunities while addressing conservation and profitability.

The Joyce Foundation's Democracy Grants aim to enhance participation and representation in the electoral process across the Great Lakes region. With a focus on combating voter suppression, gerrymandering, and disinformation, the Foundation supports policy changes that protect voting rights and ensure fair representation. Through public engagement and litigation, it seeks to empower communities of color and young voters, fostering a more equitable democracy for all residents.

The EDA Chicago FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development through comprehensive planning and technical assistance. By supporting the development and implementation of Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS), EDA empowers designated organizations, including Indian Tribes, to create jobs and foster economic resilience in distressed areas. This initiative focuses on strategic investments to facilitate effective economic development practices, ensuring sustainable growth and prosperity across regions.

The Esther Tomljanovich Strategic Initiatives grant from the Medica Foundation supports transformative projects aimed at advancing health equity. With a funding capacity of up to $200,000 over two to three years, the initiative focuses on innovative proposals in healthcare workforce development, women's health, aging services, dental programs, and housing stability. Grantees are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes and foster collaboration within their communities, emphasizing the importance of addressing unique health needs.

MN Residential Redevelopment Grants

Residential Redevelopment grants assist with demolishing residential structures or full deconstruction of homes for reuse of materials. Projects must eliminate blight, improve property maintenance, promote health and safety, reduce waste or encourage economic development. 

Funding Availability

• Funded at $225,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund.
• The number of grants awarded is variable and dependent upon the amounts awarded to successful applicants.
• A maximum of $4 per building square foot, or 75% of demolition costs including basements, whichever is less.
• A maximum of up to $5,000 for deconstruction.
• Multi-organization collaboration is welcomed.

Minnesota Market Bucks Program

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) requests proposals to administer the statewide Market Bucks Program.

The purpose of this request is to provide funding to one organization to administer the Market Bucks Program, which provides nutrition incentives to Minnesotans who use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at Minnesota Farmers Markets.

Market Bucks increases the purchasing power of SNAP customers at farmers markets and mobile markets across Minnesota by offering a dollar-for-dollar match (up to $10 per visit) for SNAP purchases made using Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. This initiative supports food access and local agriculture while aligning with the broader public health goal of improving nutrition for low-income individuals and families.

The Jeffris Heartland Fund Grant, provided by the Jeffris Family Foundation, supports significant historic preservation projects across several Midwestern states, including Iowa and Wisconsin. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, covering 50% of costs for Historic Structure Reports, requiring a dollar-for-dollar match. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on projects with historical significance, architectural merit, and strong community ties. Applications are accepted anytime, with decisions made approximately 30 days after submission.

The MHS Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Large Grants program, funded by the Legacy Amendment's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, supports projects that preserve Minnesota's history and culture. This competitive grant program, initiated in 2009, aims to enhance access to cultural resources and promote enduring historical projects. Eligible initiatives include history documentation, preservation planning, and education programs, contributing to the state's rich heritage while fostering public engagement and awareness.

The MN State Arts Board's Cultural Expression Grant supports initiatives that celebrate, express, or explore culture through the arts. This program promotes both traditional and contemporary art forms, allowing funds for cultural festivals, performances, and apprenticeships. Eligible applicants can choose to apply for one of several programs, including Creative Individuals and Arts Education, fostering community engagement and preserving cultural heritage. This grant aims to enhance the vibrancy of cultural expressions in Minnesota.

The Skin Lightening Products Public Awareness and Education Grant aims to enhance public knowledge about the health risks linked to mercury-containing skin lightening products. These products, often imported illegally, pose serious health dangers. This grant encourages grantees to implement culturally relevant and community-based educational initiatives to inform the public and promote safer alternatives, thus fostering a healthier environment and informed consumer choices.

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.

Minnesota nonprofits, schools, and government agencies improving community health and well-being can access funding through Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation’s Thriving Community Impact Fund. Grants of US $2,500 - US $49,999 support programs in physical, mental, and social health, poverty and economic stability, and neighborhood and built environment improvements within its Western Wisconsin, Southeast Minnesota, and Northeast Iowa service region.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Museum, Exhibits, and Collections Grant by the Minnesota Humanities Center supports organizations and local governments in Minnesota to enhance cultural heritage through exhibitions and collections. With $750,000 available for both Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027, applicants can request up to $200,000 each year. Eligible applicants must be in good standing with the IRS and MHC, focusing on preserving Minnesota's cultural identity and fostering educational outreach.

The New American Long-term Care (LTC) Workforce Development Legal Services initiative, led by the Minnesota Department of Human Services, aims to enhance the long-term care workforce by providing immigration legal services to New Americans. This program focuses on culturally responsive support to ensure that individuals born abroad can successfully enter and thrive in the LTC sector, promoting workforce integration and stability for these communities.

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.

Statewide Self-advocacy Network for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

DHS, through its Disability Service Division (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders to Establish, Strengthen and Expand a Statewide Self-advocacy Network for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD).

The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for two years from July 1, 2026, until June 30, 2028.

Overview 

Successful Responder selected under this RFP may be responsible for performing following tasks. Detailed obligations and additional measures of performance will be defined in the final negotiated Grant Contract. 

The State seeks a partner capable of strengthening, expanding, and sustaining an active and thriving selfadvocacy network for people with I/DD. This Request for Proposals outlines the services desired by the State and establishes the framework for responder submissions. While the RFP defines the foundational expectations, the detailed obligations and performance measures will be finalized in the negotiated contract.

The successful responder will play a central role in ensuring that individuals with ID/DD are fully informed of their rights in employment, housing, transportation, healthcare, voting, government policy, and other issues pertinent to the ID/DD community. In addition, the responder will provide public education and awareness on civil and human rights, offer funding and technical assistance to selfadvocacy groups statewide, and develop communication systems that support informationsharing across the network.

 Funding Availability

A total of $381,350 is available each year for up to five years, depending on the contract duration. The state intends to award a single grant, which must demonstrate statewide reach and impact. Generally, matching funds are not permitted; however, if an opportunity for matching funds becomes available, the grantee should consult with DHS regarding a potential contract amendment. An organization receiving a grant under this subdivision may use a portion of grant revenue determined by the commissioner for administration and general operating costs. DHS Disability Services permits up to 10% of the total grant award to be used for grant administration. 

Funding will be allocated through a competitive process with review by a committee representing content and, if applicable, community specialists with regional knowledge. If selected, Responder may only incur eligible expenditures when the contract is fully executed and the grant has reached its effective date.

MN Public Works - Broadband Infrastructure Grant

Broadband Infrastructure grants assist projects that help households and businesses reach the State of Minnesota broadband speed goal. 

Funding Availability

• Funded at $1,000,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 from the Taconite Environmental Protection Fund.
• The number of grants awarded is variable and dependent upon the amounts awarded to successful
• applicants.
• 1:1 match per project required.
• In-kind materials and/or labor are not eligible towards the project match.
• Consideration will be given to projects that leverage greater amounts of funding for a project from other sources.
• Architectural and engineering fees in excess of 10% of the total project costs are ineligible for reimbursement.
• Applications should be submitted within nine months of the project construction start date.

Minnesota Department of Health

Mission: Protecting, maintaining and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

Vision: The vision of MDH is for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy.

Quit Partner™ Ambassadors

The Minnesota Department of Health seeks proposals from community organizations to engage community members and increase knowledge of Quit PartnerTM programs. The goal of this work is to increase knowledge and reach of Quit Partner programs and ultimately reduce commercial tobacco use rates among adults in Minnesota. 

Commercial tobacco products are tobacco products manufactured and sold by the tobacco industry, like cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, and chew. Commercial tobacco is different from traditional or sacred tobacco, also known as Caŋsasa, Asemaa, or Kinnikinnick, and which are used by American Indian communities for sacred purposes.

Minnesota Department of Human Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – Counties, Tribes, non-profit and for-profit providers – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS Vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities.

Technical Assistance Navigating Culturally Specific Substance Use and Recovery Programs

Scope of Work

The purpose of the RFP is for technical assistance navigating culturally specific and responsive SUD programs. STATE has identified three categories of activities to meet this goal:

• Licensure, Minnesota Health Care Program (MHCP) Enrollment, and Rate Enhancement: The purpose of this category is to support culturally specific or culturally responsive SUD programs in developing long-term sustainability through obtaining licensure, enrolling in MHCP, or applying for the Medical Assistance (MA) Rate Enhancement as a Culturally Specific or Culturally Responsive Program.

• Grant Writing and Management: The purpose of this category is to increase the knowledge, skills, and capacity of culturally specific or culturally responsive programs to apply for, receive, and successfully manage grant funding from the STATE.

• Technical Assistance and Training: The purpose of this category is to provide an opportunity for culturally specific or culturally responsive SUD programs to support each other in a consulting or training capacity. 

The Cannabis Industry Training Program (CanTrain) is a grant initiative by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) aimed at enhancing workforce training for adults facing employment barriers. The program targets racial disparities and economic gaps by providing essential educational services and support. By equipping individuals with the skills necessary for high-growth jobs, CanTrain promotes long-term family-sustaining wages and fosters greater literacy among Minnesotans.

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 Green Fertilizer Program Grant in Minnesota offers approximately $3.8 million to agricultural and rural electric cooperatives for investments in green fertilizer production facilities. Eligible projects must utilize renewable energy and green hydrogen, with a minimum grant award of $250,000. The program emphasizes strong business readiness and requires matching funds from cooperatives. Successful applicants must be licensed, in good standing, and committed to sustainable practices for fertilizer production, ensuring environmental responsibility in the agricultural sector.

Minnesota Department of Human Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Mission is driven by collaboration with community and partners – Counties, Tribes, non-profit and for-profit providers – supporting people to thrive in community and live their healthiest and fullest lives. The DHS Vision is that all people in Minnesota have what they need to thrive in community with no disparities.

Connecting Families: Grantees to Provide Support Services to Families of Children with Disabilities

Objective of RFP

The Minnesota Department of Human Services, through its Disability Services Division (STATE), is seeking Proposals from qualified Responders for the Connecting Families Project: to provide support to Minnesota families of children with disabilities through individual and group support services, resource connections and education on Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC). The term of any resulting contract is anticipated to be for up to one (1) year.

To be considered under this RFP, Responders must be a current Minnesota family support organization serving families of children with disabilities residing in Minnesota and must demonstrate a clear understanding of the needs of these families. The leadership of this project will include a parent of a child with a disability, ensuring that family perspectives are embedded in program planning, decisionmaking, and service delivery.

To meet these needs, the STATE is offering grants for the following two goals:

• Family Connection and Support: Reduce isolation by providing individual and group support and linking families to essential resources.
• Empowering Families through Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC): Introduce and guide families and professionals in using the CtLC framework and tools to envision a good life, identify supports, and engage in meaningful planning.

Minnesota Department of Health

Mission: Protecting, maintaining and improving the health of all Minnesotans.

Vision: The vision of MDH is for health equity in Minnesota, where all communities are thriving and all people have what they need to be healthy.

Rural Health Transformation Program Funding 

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. Minnesota has outlined their initiatives online (learn more about Minnesota's Rural Health Transformation Program).

Grant recipients will select activities from broad RHTP initiatives designed to advance the overarching goals of improving health outcomes and access to care for rural Minnesotans, sustainably expanding the rural health care workforce, strengthening partnerships between providers to expand service delivery in rural communities, and stabilizing rural provider financial health through strategic investments. 

Entity Type: Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) and Community Mental Health Centers (CMHCs)

Estimated Number of Awards: 16

Estimated Maximum Award in Budget Period 1: $240,000

Applicants may request up to the maximum award.

Service to Success Competitive Grant

The Service to Success program is a competitive grant funding opportunity through the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Office of Public Service (OPS). The purpose of the Service to Success Grant is to create, strengthen, and expand career pathways aligned to public service opportunities. A service to career pathway, for the purposes of this opportunity, is defined as a public service program that provides sustained service opportunities to members/participants while also providing training, support, and exposure to a specific career opportunity. These opportunities may include a low or no cost way for members/participants to earn credits, credentials, certifications, or license in a specific career field that public service members can earn through the course of their service.

This Request for Proposals (RFP) seeks to fund programs that support the transition of individuals from public service, including AmeriCorps, VISTA, NCCC, etc. into sustainable career pathways. Programs are intended to align service-based experience with industry-recognized careers by building intentional bridges from service programs into the workforce.

Funds may be used to expand access to public service to career pathways (e.g. recruit more public service participants, add additional certifications to existing pathways, more career placements, etc.) and to fund innovations that create new education or workforce partnerships and/or create innovative service to career pathways (e.g. establish new pathways from service to careers, engaging new sectors in service to career). Where possible, programs will align with one of the following workforce priority areas: health/elder care, education, civil or public service, climate and environmental careers, food security/agriculture.

If an awarded organization is unable to expend the award or complete the grant execution, DEED reserves the right to reallocate awarded funds to other organizations who have been awarded Service to Success grants, have demonstrated satisfactory grant performance, and have the ability to utilize additional funds.

If awarded, DEED reserves the right to require changes to the awarded proposal at time of grant agreement negotiations.

A total of $712,500 will be available for grants for this grant funding cycle. Applicants may apply for:

• Up to $100,000 for grants for Expansion Grants
• Up to $50,000 for Innovation Grants