Search Through Water Grants in Minnesota in the U.S.

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute $40 million to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement

Tier 1 awards are one-year grants of up to $150,000 for assessment and engagement efforts that increase understanding of the breadth, depth, or impact of local environmental or public health issues. These grants are limited to capacity-constrained and entry-level applicants, as determined by the information you submit in the intake form. These grants will be paid on a milestone basis: 50% up front and 50% at the midway point, upon completion of agreed-upon milestones.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• GIS mapping
• Air quality sensor purchasing and siting
• Air, water, or soil sampling, testing, and monitoring
• Research, surveys, and studies
• Power mapping, public engagement, and public education to improve collective understanding of community challenges, needs, and opportunities.

Through a noncompetitive process, we will also award grants of up to $75,000 to capacity constrained communities and community-based organizations under Tier One.

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 2: Community Education and Planning

Tier 2 awards are one- to two-year grants of up to $250,000 for community-focused efforts that design, inform, and highlight solutions to local environmental or public health priorities. Up to 50% of the grant can be used for relevant property acquisition. Grants will be paid on a reimbursement basis, with a small number of grantees eligible for one advance payment of up to 10% of the total grant.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• Developing project plans
• Developing communications and outreach plans
• Conducting workshops and trainings
• Developing curricula, toolkits, or guidelines; developing social media content
• Producing videos or printed materials
• Hosting events and gatherings
• Building or strengthening partnerships and collaboration
• Creating local advisory committees
• Engaging in public review or comment periods
• Developing or updating disaster resilience plans, emergency preparedness plans, or other community planning and visioning efforts

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

The Minneapolis Foundation

The Minneapolis Foundation drives collective action to realize strong, vibrant communities. We cultivate generosity by taking action on the greatest civic, social, and economic needs—partnering with nonprofits, facilitating grantmaking, driving research and advocacy, and providing services to donors seeking to make a difference in their communities.

Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program

In partnership with the Midwest Environmental Justice Network, NDN Collective, and RE-AMP Network, the Minneapolis Foundation will award environmental justice grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Grants will be awarded to community-based nonprofits and other eligible organizations in the following three tiers:

• Tier 1: Assessment and Engagement
• Tier 2: Community Education and Planning
• Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

We aim to distribute 30% of grant funding to federally recognized tribes and Native American organizations, 25% to rural communities, and 45% to urban communities. The partnership anticipates making 206 grants: 83 in Year 1, 85 in Year 2, and 38 in Year 3.

You may submit an application for multiple tiers at the same time, in any order.

Program Goal

The Great Lakes TCGM Partnership will distribute grants to organizations working in and for underserved communities throughout the Great Lakes region. The partnership was selected by the EPA as one of 11 grantmakers around the nation in its new Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program.

The program’s goal is to lift up community-led innovation and strengthen community-based groups by breaking down barriers to federal funding. All grants will be given to environmental and public health efforts in underserved communities as defined by the EPA.

Issue Areas

Grants will support projects that focus on issues including, but not limited to:

• Environmental health
• Air, soil, and water quality
• Healthy homes
• Access to healthy food
• Stormwater and green infrastructure
• Emergency preparedness
• Disaster resilience
• Environmental job training

Tier 3: Project Development and Implementation

Tier 3 awards are one- to two-year grants of up to $350,000 to pilot or implement project plans. Projects may have educational and outreach components, but must focus on developing tangible community assets or providing environmental or public health benefits to one or more disadvantaged communities. Up to 50% of the grant can be used for relevant property acquisition or purchase. Grants will be paid on a reimbursement basis, with a small number of grantees eligible for one advance payment of up to 10% of the total grant.

Eligible activities include, but are not limited to:

• Strengthening cumulative impact, public health, or environmental protections
• Increasing access to healthy food
• Reducing the use of pesticides or toxic substances
• Cleaning up contaminated sites
• Conducting healthy home assessments
• Increasing energy or water efficiency in homes or buildings
• Launching community energy or water efficiency programs
• Installing water filters; developing community gardens
• Creating community resilience hubs
• Installing green infrastructure projects
• Creating internships or implementing workforce development programs

You need not develop a new project to receive a grant. These one-time grants are well suited to support existing work that is currently not funded by another source or to complement other projects for which you already have funding. We also welcome proposals for high-priority new projects. 

Background

Pentair believes it is our responsibility to make a positive impact on people and the planet – through our solutions, communities, and operations - as reflected in our Win Right Values. Since 1998, Pentair and the Pentair Foundation have contributed more than $80 million to philanthropic causes strengthening the communities in which we operate. The mission of the Pentair Foundation is to support and advance inclusive and sustainable communities by investing in the availability, quality, and enjoyment of water and by increasing the participation of youth and young adults in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.

Program Areas

In support of this mission, Pentair and the Pentair Foundation engage in giving across these key program areas:

Water

Pentair and the Pentair Foundation seek to help the world sustainably move, improve, and enjoy water by reducing water stress and building ecological resilience; improving the quality of drinking water; improving access to cleaner and safer water; and increasing water-related safety and well-being.

The Pentair Foundation focuses on programs that help to:

• Move: Reduce water stress and build ecological resilience
• Improve: Improve water quality and reduce single use plastic water bottles
• Enjoy: Increase swim safety and promote water-related well-being

Education

Pentair and the Pentair Foundation seek to help build the workforce of the future by investing in or supporting STEM career pathways, with a particular focus on engineering and manufacturing for youth and young adults.

Community

Pentair and the Pentair Foundation seek to advance vibrant, inclusive communities where we live and work by encouraging employee volunteerism and matching Pentair employee donations.

If you have an initiative you would like Pentair to consider, please contact Pentair. 

Quetico Superior Foundation Grant

The mission of the Quetico Superior Foundation is the protection of the wilderness character of Minnesota’s Border Lakes Canoe Country and Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park.

The grants represent a wide range of projects including land preservation, forest management studies, wilderness youth programs, community development and education, and historical preservation. Any group interested in applying for a grant should contact us. It is our vision that our ongoing approval of these grants will directly and dramatically impact the quality of wilderness preservation of the region. 

What does this program do?

This program provides funding for clean and reliable drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, sanitary solid waste disposal, and storm water drainage to households and businesses in eligible rural areas.

How may the funds be used?

Funds may be used to finance the acquisition, construction or improvement of:

• Drinking water sourcing, treatment, storage and distribution
• Sewer collection, transmission, treatment and disposal
• Solid waste collection, disposal and closure
• Storm water collection, transmission and disposal

In some cases, funding may also be available for related activities such as:

• Legal and engineering fees
• Land acquisition, water and land rights, permits and equipment
• Start-up operations and maintenance
• Interest incurred during construction
• Purchase of facilities to improve service or prevent loss of service
• Other costs determined to be necessary for completion of the project
• See 7 CFR Part 1780.7 and 1780.9 for a complete list

About

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.

Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

Our three general areas of responsibility include:

• Protecting our food supply;
• Protecting our natural resources; and,
• Cultivating our agricultural economy.

Minnesota Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Program

The MDA is requesting proposals for directing fertilizer research and outreach programs. The Minnesota Legislature established the Minnesota Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Program for directing fertilizer research and outreach program. The enabling legislation establishing the governing Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Council (AFREC) is Minnesota Statute 18C.70 and 18C.71. The Minnesota Legislature also established the funding mechanism for the program. This year, up to $1,200,000 generated by fertilizer sales from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, is available for this Request for Proposals (RFP).  Any organization, research entity, individual, or business with agricultural research capability is eligible to apply and receive funding. This includes farmers/farmer networks, institutions of higher education, research institutions, nonprofit organizations, urban agriculture, agricultural cooperatives, and agricultural businesses with research capabilities.

Eligible Projects

Eligible project activities include research that addresses one or more of the activities as defined by the Minnesota Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Program Minnesota Statute 18C.71. These activities include research, education, technology transfer related to the production and application of commercial fertilizer, soil amendments, and other plant amendments. AFREC’s goal is to have projects selected and contracts executed prior to the 2024 cropping season. As directed by the 2024 state legislature, the council updated research priorities and requested guidance related to: (1) the availability of nitrogen by manure type and livestock species based on management; and (2) manure management and fertilizer best management practices for areas where surface water or groundwater are vulnerable to nitrate losses.

Small Cities Development Program

Our Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) helps cities, townships, and counties with funding for housing, public infrastructure and commercial rehabilitation projects.

Program Goal

The goal of SCDP is to develop viable communities and provide a suitable living environment by expanding economic opportunities that principally benefit low-and-moderate income (LMI) households. The program accomplishes this goal by providing financial assistance to address the need for decent, safe, affordable housing, economic development, and adequate public facilities.

Background

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is a federal program that provides funding for housing, community, and economic development. In 1974, Congress passed the Housing and Community Development Act, Title I, which authorized the development of the CDBG Program. The Program, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), consists of two components:

• An entitlement program that provides funding directly to urban areas.
• CDBG Program that awards funds, through a competitive process, to eligible units of local government (UGLG) as sub-recipients.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is responsible for administrating the CDBG program, through the Small Cities Development Program (SCDP), for non-entitlement communities, per Minnesota Administrative Rules, Chapter 4300, Community Development Block Grants.

Housing Grants

Funds are granted to local units of government, which, in turn, lend funds for the purpose of rehabilitating local housing stock. Loans may be used for owner-occupied, rental, single-family or multiple-family housing rehabilitation. Loan agreements may allow for deferred payments or immediate monthly payments. Interest rates may vary, and loan repayments are retained by grantees for the purpose of making additional rehabilitation loans. In all cases, housing funds must benefit low- and moderate-income persons.

Public Facility Grants

Funds are granted for wastewater treatment projects, including collection systems and treatment plants; wells, water towers and distribution systems.

Comprehensive Grants

Comprehensive projects frequently include housing and public facility activities described above. In addition, comprehensive projects may include an economic development activity, which consists of loans from the grant recipient to businesses for building, rehabilitation related to facade improvements, code violations, and health and safety issues. The most common economic development activity is rehabilitation of local commercial districts.

Maximum Available

The maximum grant award for a Single Purpose project is $600,000. The maximum grant award for a Comprehensive project is $1.4 million.

Funds for the program are provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the benefit of eligible non-entitlement local units of government (cities, counties, townships) through a competitive application process for a variety of community development needs.

Single Purpose Application

Single Purpose Application is used for housing projects, which include one or more housing activities designed to increase the supply or quality of dwellings suited for the occupancy of the individuals and families. Single purpose applications can also be used for public facilities projects. Public facilities projects include one or more activities designed to construct, reconstruct, or install buildings/infrastructure that serve a community or neighborhood area. Examples include water/wastewater treatment facilities, streetscapes, and public aesthetic amenities that are part of a larger renewal or beautification plan. Single purpose applications cannot exceed $600,000, including administrative expenses.

Comprehensive Application

The Comprehensive Application is used for projects that include a combination of at least two related activities, one of which must be a housing activity that will address community development needs. For multi-community applications, each communities proposed activities must meet the definition of a comprehensive project for multi-community applications to be eligible as a comprehensive project. These projects must benefit a defined geographical area. Total funding request cannot exceed $1.4 million and each activity within the application cannot exceed $600,000, including administrative expenses.

Background

The Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants program —also known as Legacy Grants — is a competitive process created to provide financial support for projects focused on preserving Minnesota’s history and culture. This state-funded program is made possible by the Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, created through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008.

Program Goals

To preserve and enhance access to Minnesota's cultural and historical resources and to support projects of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation across the state.

Where the Money Came From

When Minnesota voters passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in 2008, the state legislature created the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (H.F. 1231), a portion of which was appropriated to the Minnesota Historical Society for history-related projects around the state. One of those new initiatives was the Statewide Historical and Cultural Grants program, seeded by a pool of $6.75 million to be awarded in the 2010-11 biennium for "projects of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation."

The then-new grants program took shape over the summer of 2009. At meetings held across the state, more than 150 representatives of county and local historical organizations offered their input on how to use the special legislative funding most effectively. Among the most popular aspects of the proposed grant guidelines: a range of grant sizes and the potential for partnerships.

"This grant program will be a benchmark in its potential to reshape the future for local history and historic preservation in Minnesota," said Britta Bloomberg, past head of the Minnesota History Society Historic Preservation Department. "What we do in the first biennium will set the stage for ongoing funding of an initiative that has a 25-year span."

What Can Be Funded

Eligible projects fall into three project categories: history projects, historic preservation projects, and structured grants. Keep in mind that these are guidelines, not a catalog of all possible projects. In addition, some projects might appear to fit under more than one category. If your planned project does not appear to fit into one of these categories, or if you are unsure which category should be applied to your project, call, e-mail, or write the Grants Office before submitting an application. Final product(s) must be held by a Minnesota-based organization or institution with access to the public.

See full details here.

HISTORY PROJECTS

• Oral History
• Research and Writing
• Interpretive Programs and Public Education
• Publications
• Collections Care and Management
• General Conservation Assessment and Long-Range Preservation Plan
• Historical Organization Self-Assessment Using StEPs
• Museum and Archives Environments
• Evaluation of Building Mechanical (HVAC) Systems
• Planning For Redesign of Museum Lighting
• Develop a Disaster Plan
• Digital Conversion and Reproduction
• Acquire Primary Resources on Microfilm
• Acquire Microfilm Reader/Printer/Scanners
• Minnesota Bookshelf
• Scholarship to National Conference Hosted in Minnesota
• Archaeological Collections Assessment
• Museum Security Survey

HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROJECTS

• National Register Property Evaluation
• National Register and Local Designation
• Historic Preservation Planning
• Historic Preservation Survey, Identification, and Evaluation
• Historic Properties

Grant Program Summary

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the CPL program to provide competitive matching grants from $5,000 up to $500,000 to local, regional, state, and national non-profit organizations and government entities. Grants must restore, protect or enhance prairies, wetlands, forests, or habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. A 10% match of non-state funds is required for all grants. The match may be cash or in-kind resources. The amount and source of match must be identified at the time of application. Total project costs may not exceed $1,000,000. CPL is a reimbursement-based grant program. 

Goals and Priorities

The CPL program is habitat-focused. Grant activities include the enhancement, restoration, or protection of forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. All applications should identify the direct habitat benefits of the project including but not limited to specific species, ecosystems, habitat types, and natural heritage features. All projects must adhere to MS 97A.056. 

Restoration and enhancement projects will only be funded on lands that are:

• permanently protected by a conservation easement as defined in MN Statutes 84C.01;
• in public ownership (ownership by a unit of government including tribal, federal, state, county, city, school district, special district, etc.); or 
• in public waters as defined in MN Statutes, Section 103G.005, subdivision 15.

Expedited Conservation Projects (ECP)

• Grants are limited to a maximum award of $75,000 (minimum $5,000). 
• Total project cost may not exceed $1,000,000. 
• Projects must be on the ECP Activity List
•  Restoration and enhancement projects only (no acquisitions).
• Projects must be on public lands or waters, or on land protected under a permanent conservation easement. 

General information

This is a competitive grant program that funds capacity building and program development of history-based partnerships throughout the state. This state-funded program is made possible by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund using sales tax revenue resulting from the Clean Water, Land, and Legacy amendment created through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008.

The goal of this grant program is to build the capacity of eligible applicants to preserve and enhance access to Minnesota’s history and cultural resources by supporting the creation and development of sustainable, history-based partnerships throughout the state. Two or more partners that are educational institutions, units of state or local government, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and federally recognized tribes based in Minnesota are encouraged to apply.

Availability of funding:

Dependent on legislative funding, applications are accepted annually. Typically, applications are accepted in January (if funding is available).

Grant request range:

The minimum grant is $10,000. There is currently no request cap. However, there is typically between $300,000 to $400,000 available each round to be awarded.

Match requirement:

None; however, a match is encouraged. It is one indicator of local buy-in and commitment to the partnership grant. It is a criterion used for evaluating grant applications.

Carolyn Foundation

Our vision is to improve the lives of children/families, communities, and the environment through the involvement of successive generations of the family of Carolyn McKnight Christian. We make community grants in New Haven, CT, and Minneapolis, MN, and climate change grants in Minnesota.

Within climate change grantmaking we focus on efforts to mitigate and adapt for climate change:

Carolyn Foundation’s highest environmental priority is addressing climate change as the most important issue affecting our world. The Foundation’s objective is to support aggressive & equitable carbon reduction between now and 2030 as the foundation for achieving net-zero carbon by 2050.

The Foundation’s objective is to support aggressive & equitable carbon reduction between now and 2030 as the Foundation for achieving net-zero carbon by 2050. So as we look at requests, we will prioritize organizations explicitly addressing carbon reduction and community impact. Organizations that prioritize other essential environmental issues, water, toxics, and food, and only tangentially impact climate, are unlikely to be funded.

We also focus on the intersection of climate and communities. We want to support community-led efforts such as: increasing energy efficiency, mobilizing community action, bringing community voice to policy tables, and collaborating with other climate advocacy groups to ensure the community impact and equity are designed into policy and administrative reform.  

Grant Program Summary

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the CPL program to provide competitive matching grants from $5,000 up to $500,000 to local, regional, state, and national nonprofit organizations and government entities. Grants must restore, protect or enhance prairies, wetlands, forests, or habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. A 10% match of non-state funds is required for all grants. The match may be cash or in-kind resources. The amount and source of match must be identified at the time of application. Total project costs may not exceed $1,000,000. CPL is a reimbursement-based grant program.

Goals and Priorities

The CPL program is habitat-focused. Grant activities include the enhancement, restoration, or protection of forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. All applications should identify the direct habitat benefit of the project. All projects must adhere to MS 97A.056.

Restoration and enhancement projects will only be funded on lands that are:

• permanently protected by a conservation easement as defined in MN Statutes 84C.01;
• in public ownership; or
• in public waters as defined in MN Statutes, Section 103G.005, subdivision 15.

Acquisition projects may include acquiring land through fee title or permanent conservation easement.

Lands acquired in fee title must be open to the public for hunting and fishing during all open seasons unless otherwise provided by law.

Grant Program Summary

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages the CPL program to provide competitive matching grants from $5,000 up to $500,000 to local, regional, state, and national non-profit organizations and government entities. Grants must restore, protect or enhance prairies, wetlands, forests, or habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. A 10% match of non-state funds is required for all grants. The match may be cashnor in-kind resources. The amount and source of match must be identified at the time of application. Total project costs may not exceed $1,000,000. CPL is a reimbursement-based grant program.

Goals and Priorities

The CPL program is habitat-focused. Grant activities include the enhancement, restoration, or protection of forests, wetlands, prairies, and habitat for fish, game, or wildlife in Minnesota. All applications should identify the direct habitat benefit of the project. All projects must adhere to MS 97A.056.

Restoration and enhancement projects will only be funded on lands that are:

• permanently protected by a conservation easement as defined in MN Statutes 84C.01;
• in public ownership; or
• in public waters as defined in MN Statutes, Section 103G.005, subdivision 15.

Acquisition projects may include acquiring land through fee title or permanent conservation easement.

Lands acquired in fee title must be open to the public for hunting and fishing during all open seasons unless otherwise provided by law.

Rooted in the North. Growing a future where everyone thrives—together.

We believe our northern communities hold the power to shape our shared future. Our name honors the boreal forest, an ecosystem known for its resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted connection.

For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to this work—originally as the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. In 2025, we became Boreal Waters to better reflect the full reach of our region and the growing impact of our mission.

Community Opportunity Fund

The Community Opportunity Fund is the heart of our work at Boreal Waters. It’s how we unite generosity across the region to spark bold ideas, strengthen local nonprofits, and create lasting change for communities across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

As our region’s permanent civic endowment, the Fund directs resources where they’re needed most—supporting transformative, collaborative projects that help communities thrive, even in times of challenge. And it’s made possible by people like you.

Belonging Grant

Creating spaces and opportunities where all people are valued, heard, and are able to thrive. Projects amplify voices, foster creative expression, and create a vibrant, inclusive culture.

Examples are:

• Elevates diverse voices and perspectives, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. 
• Embraces the common humanity of all individuals. 
• Implements practices that increase connection, respect, and safety. 
• Strengthens community bonds and promotes equity for

What We Fund

We support a wide range of community-driven, equity-centered work. Funding can be used for:

• Program or Project Support: To launch, expand, or sustain work in Opportunity, Resilience, or Belonging
• General Operating Support: To build strength and stability
• Capacity Building: To grow organizational effectiveness or leadership
• Community-Led Solutions: Especially those involving lived experience and cross-sector collaboration
• Systems Change and Upstream Impact: Projects that address root causes—not just symptoms

Specialty Crop Block Grant Program

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) funds projects that will increase the competitiveness of Minnesota-grown specialty crops in domestic and foreign markets. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) defines specialty crops as fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops, floriculture, and processed products that have 50% or more specialty crop content by weight, exclusive of added water. See the USDA's detailed list of eligible specialty crops (PDF) for more information.

Funding Priorities

We are seeking projects for our 2024 SCBGP that pertain to the following issues affecting the specialty crop industry:

• Improving distribution, promotion, and marketing of specialty crops.
• Increasing child and adult nutrition knowledge and consumption of specialty crops.
• Researching and developing of techniques that focus on pest or disease control.
• Developing new or improved specialty crop seed or plant varieties.
• Researching and developing techniques to improve sustainable production of specialty crops and environmental outcomes.
• Improve capacity of all entities in the specialty crop distribution chain to ensure food safety and comply with food safety standards and requirements.

About Us

The Izaak Walton League is one of America’s oldest and most successful conservation organizations – and we are the only organization training, equipping, and coordinating volunteer water quality monitors on a national scale. These volunteers are the heart and soul of our common-sense conservation mission. Through member-driven bottom-up governance, the Izaak Walton League is protecting outdoor America in communities across the country, while working strategically at the national level to win critical conservation battles.

Minnesota Division Awards

Please read the descriptions below to nominate a person or group for one of the MN Division awards.

IWLA Distinguished Service Award - Special and long-term service to the MN Div. Division.

Dr. Walter Breckenridge Award - Recognizes professional educators and others who teach all of us to value natural resources.

Ed Franey Outdoor Writer and Conservation Media Award - Professional who works in written word, visual form or spoken word.

Sigurd F. Olson Conservation Award - Our special award for someone with outstanding contributions to the preservation of Minnesota's natural resources - IWLA member preferred but not mandatory.

IWLA Stewardship Awards - A member who has worked on special projects, achieved public acclaim and helped the community in meaningful ways.

Ray Haik Watershed District Award - Named for the Minnesotan who was a national IWLA president and authored the legislation establishing watershed districts.

Dave Zentner Minnesota Defenders Award - Named for the Minnesotan who was a national IWLA president - granted annually to any chapter that completes six of the eight following criteria:

• Membership growth (Jan-Dec)
• Distribute (by mail or electronically) a regular newsletter/blog/email, etc.
• Conduct or contribute to a local/state/national Ikes scholarship program (minimum $100)
• Conduct or participate in a local school or youth outdoor/conservation activity
• Conduct a local chapter conservation project (other than previous category)
• Work with a conservation/environmental group (non-school) to conduct a project or fundraiser (other than above categories).
• Visit another chapter OR attend a regional, state or national Ikes meeting (minimum of 3 from chapter)
• Conduct an event or attend a governmental meeting to discuss a conservation or environmental issue. (minimum 3 from chapter)

Community Grant Program

The Butler Family Foundation’s Community Grants Program awards two-year grants for general operating support or for specific projects and programs. 

Focus Area - Environment

We seek to promote the responsible stewardship of land and water resources in Minnesota by funding programs in land protection and sustainable land use; water quality protection and improvement; and efforts which integrate land and water protection strategies. We seek to educate Minnesota's young people about the importance of land and water resources by funding educational programs that focus on land protection, sustainable land use, and water quality protection and improvement.

Types of Support

We award two-year Community Grants for either general operating support or specific projects and programs. Minimum grant sizes are $30,000 per year for general operating support and $20,000 per year for projects and programs.

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation invests resources, facilitates collaboration and promotes philanthropy to make the region a better place to live and work.

NMF has open grants rounds through our mission-driven grants programs, as well as local funds in our family of funds. NMF is home to more than 430 community and component funds, many of which offer grant funding for groups and organizations to benefit their local communities.

The Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations

The HC COLA Charitable Fund provides financial support for charitable and educational programs, projects and activities that facilitate cooperation among member lake associations and to assist in encouraging environmentally sustainable use of lakes and watersheds that protect, preserve and enhance the quality of area lakes and their environs including funding for:

• Early detection of aquatic invasive species (AIS) and aquatic vegetation surveys
• Research,studies or projects on water quality, and shoreland development, AIS prevention, and disseminating information thereof to member associations and the general public.
• Developing and presenting guidelines concerning the development, and preservation of the rivers, lakes, shorelands and other landsto agencies of the government, business and private individuals in order to bring about appropriate action for the effective use of these valuable natural resources.
• Support of acquisition of property for sustainable public use, e.g. Conservation Easements.
• Support for the establishment of individual lake association educational and charitable funds.
• Other charitable and educational activitiesthat support the HCCOLA and associated lake associations.

For every $1 contributed by HCCOLA Charitable Fund, applicant must match $1 toward the project. Matches can be comprised of volunteer labor, in-kind services, donated materials, and/or cash. In-kind match of labor / volunteers can be estimated at $25.00 per hour for unskilled activities.

Background

The Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Grants program —also known as Legacy Grants — is a competitive process created to provide financial support for projects focused on preserving Minnesota’s history and culture. This state-funded program is made possible by the Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, created through the vote of Minnesotans on Nov. 4, 2008.

Program Goals

To preserve and enhance access to Minnesota's cultural and historical resources and to support projects of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation across the state.

Where the Money Came From

When Minnesota voters passed the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment in 2008, the state legislature created the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund (H.F. 1231), a portion of which was appropriated to the Minnesota Historical Society for history-related projects around the state. One of those new initiatives was the Statewide Historical and Cultural Grants program, seeded by a pool of $6.75 million to be awarded in the 2010-11 biennium for "projects of enduring value for the cause of history and historic preservation."

The then-new grants program took shape over the summer of 2009. At meetings held across the state, more than 150 representatives of county and local historical organizations offered their input on how to use the special legislative funding most effectively. Among the most popular aspects of the proposed grant guidelines: a range of grant sizes and the potential for partnerships.

"This grant program will be a benchmark in its potential to reshape the future for local history and historic preservation in Minnesota," said Britta Bloomberg, past head of the Minnesota History Society Historic Preservation Department. "What we do in the first biennium will set the stage for ongoing funding of an initiative that has a 25-year span."

What Can Be Funded

Eligible projects fall into three project categories: history projects, historic preservation projects, and structured grants. Keep in mind that these are guidelines, not a catalog of all possible projects. In addition, some projects might appear to fit under more than one category. If your planned project does not appear to fit into one of these categories, or if you are unsure which category should be applied to your project, call, e-mail, or write the Grants Office before submitting an application. Final product(s) must be held by a Minnesota-based organization or institution with access to the public.

See full details here.

HISTORY PROJECTS

• Oral History
• Research and Writing
• Interpretive Programs and Public Education
• Publications
• Collections Care and Management
• General Conservation Assessment and Long-Range Preservation Plan
• Historical Organization Self-Assessment Using StEPs
• Museum and Archives Environments
• Evaluation of Building Mechanical (HVAC) Systems
• Planning For Redesign of Museum Lighting
• Develop a Disaster Plan
• Digital Conversion and Reproduction
• Acquire Primary Resources on Microfilm
• Acquire Microfilm Reader/Printer/Scanners
• Minnesota Bookshelf
• Scholarship to National Conference Hosted in Minnesota
• Archaeological Collections Assessment
• Museum Security Survey

HISTORIC PRESERVATION PROJECTS

• National Register Property Evaluation
• National Register and Local Designation
• Historic Preservation Planning
• Historic Preservation Survey, Identification, and Evaluation
• Historic Properties

Rooted in the North. Growing a future where everyone thrives—together.

We believe our northern communities hold the power to shape our shared future. Our name honors the boreal forest, an ecosystem known for its resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted connection.

For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to this work—originally as the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. In 2025, we became Boreal Waters to better reflect the full reach of our region and the growing impact of our mission.

Community Opportunity Fund

The Community Opportunity Fund is the heart of our work at Boreal Waters. It’s how we unite generosity across the region to spark bold ideas, strengthen local nonprofits, and create lasting change for communities across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

As our region’s permanent civic endowment, the Fund directs resources where they’re needed most—supporting transformative, collaborative projects that help communities thrive, even in times of challenge. And it’s made possible by people like you.

Opportunity Grant

‍Projects empower individuals to achieve economic stability and independence.

Examples:

• Expands access to affordable housing
• Creates jobs that pay a living wage 
• Supports wealth-building opportunities 
• Provides access to high-quality education 
• Strengthens economic well-being through essential support services

What We Fund

We support a wide range of community-driven, equity-centered work. Funding can be used for:

• Program or Project Support: To launch, expand, or sustain work in Opportunity, Resilience, or Belonging
• General Operating Support: To build strength and stability
• Capacity Building: To grow organizational effectiveness or leadership
• Community-Led Solutions: Especially those involving lived experience and cross-sector collaboration
• Systems Change and Upstream Impact: Projects that address root causes—not just symptoms

Rooted in the North. Growing a future where everyone thrives—together.

We believe our northern communities hold the power to shape our shared future. Our name honors the boreal forest, an ecosystem known for its resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted connection.

For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to this work—originally as the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. In 2025, we became Boreal Waters to better reflect the full reach of our region and the growing impact of our mission.

Community Opportunity Fund

The Community Opportunity Fund is the heart of our work at Boreal Waters. It’s how we unite generosity across the region to spark bold ideas, strengthen local nonprofits, and create lasting change for communities across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

As our region’s permanent civic endowment, the Fund directs resources where they’re needed most—supporting transformative, collaborative projects that help communities thrive, even in times of challenge. And it’s made possible by people like you.

Resilience Grant

Projects must enhance the ability of organizations, families, or communities to anticipate, adapt to, and recover from challenges, creating sustainable, long-term solutions that reduce risk and promote resilience. 

Examples:  

• Leveraging partnerships and resources to implement scalable, lasting solutions that strengthen community resilience. 
• Expanding access to knowledge, training, and tools that improve economic, social, or environmental stability for individuals and families. 
• Developing community-driven solutions that address housing stability, food security, workforce resilience, or climate adaptation. 
• Applying innovative or proven strategies that increase a community’s ability to prepare for and respond to systemic challenges (e.g., disaster preparedness, economic shifts, public health crises).

What We Fund

We support a wide range of community-driven, equity-centered work. Funding can be used for:

• Program or Project Support: To launch, expand, or sustain work in Opportunity, Resilience, or Belonging
• General Operating Support: To build strength and stability
• Capacity Building: To grow organizational effectiveness or leadership
• Community-Led Solutions: Especially those involving lived experience and cross-sector collaboration
• Systems Change and Upstream Impact: Projects that address root causes—not just symptoms

Rooted in the North. Growing a future where everyone thrives—together.

We believe our northern communities hold the power to shape our shared future. Our name honors the boreal forest, an ecosystem known for its resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted connection.

For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to this work—originally as the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. In 2025, we became Boreal Waters to better reflect the full reach of our region and the growing impact of our mission.

Community Opportunity Fund

The Community Opportunity Fund is the heart of our work at Boreal Waters. It’s how we unite generosity across the region to spark bold ideas, strengthen local nonprofits, and create lasting change for communities across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

As our region’s permanent civic endowment, the Fund directs resources where they’re needed most—supporting transformative, collaborative projects that help communities thrive, even in times of challenge. And it’s made possible by people like you.

About the Antioch Foundation 

Since 2000, The Antioch Foundation has provided financial support to innovative people and institutions across the U.S. and around the word to share the Gospel of Jesus and serve others in the areas of faith, education, medicine, and humanitarian need.

Our Mission:

To make a positive difference in the lives of others for the greater glory of God.

 What We Fund:

• Pilot programs, start-up costs, or building projects receive priority over operating budget items. 
• Most awards do not exceed $40,000 and are generally awarded for a one-year period. Multi-year grants are occasionally made for larger amounts.
• Evidence of project support from other donors is highly desirable.

Examples of previously funded grants include:

Faith: Church construction and remodel; audio, video, and online training materials production; summer youth programs 

Education: Classroom technology; tuition assistance; teacher training seminars; special education programs

Medicine: Hospital and clinic expansion; advanced technology; research; community health outreach

Humanitarian Need: Natural disaster relief; water filtration and purification; temporary housing; food distribution

Our Priorities

We focus our resources on the communities where we work and live. Our funds are for innovative projects and programs that create measurable impacts in our areas of emphasis.

The Foundation will consider requests from qualified organizations to support operating budgets and capital fund programs for the construction, refurbishment or purchase of buildings, structures, equipment or physical enhancements.

Education

Especially early childhood education initiatives and programs that support schools of higher learning with special interest in curricula and capital improvements in the study of business, political science, economics, engineering, and natural/physical sciences as they relate to the energy and industrial industries. 

Health and Human Services

Including initiatives and programs that help individuals and families struggling with daily living challenges, including hunger, poverty, domestic violence, homelessness, and disabilities.

Community, Civic, and Cultural Development

Programs and projects that focus on local, regional, or statewide economic and cultural development, including efforts that increase awareness of culture and the arts and encourage their growth, particularly for regions or populations that would otherwise be unable to participate.

Environment

programs that emphasize sustainability, preservation, environmental education, and stewardship of our land, water, and air with an emphasis on collaborative programs that strengthen ties between businesses and communities.

Purpose

The Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant Program expands partnerships to protect and restore Minnesota’s water resources. The funding is outlined in the:

• Laws of Minnesota 2023, Chapter 40, Article 2, Section 6 (m) $500,000 the first year and $500,000 the second year are for developing and implementing a water legacy grant program to expand partnerships for clean water; and
• Laws of Minnesota 2024, Chapter 106, Article 2, Section 6 (c) $2,000,000 the second year is for developing and implementing a water legacy grant program to expand partnerships for clean water.

The Clean Water Fund was established in Minnesota Statutes 114D.50 to implement part of Article XI, Section 15, of the Minnesota Constitution, with the purpose of protecting, enhancing, and restoring water quality in lakes, rivers, and streams in addition to protecting ground water and drinking water sources from degradation. Clean Water Funds must supplement traditional sources of funding and may not be used as a substitute to fund activities or programs.

Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant

The primary purpose of activities funded through this program is to expand partnerships for clean water through activities that protect or restore water quality in lakes, rivers, or streams, or protect groundwater or drinking water. Examples of previously funded projects include but are not limited to clean water workshops and trainings, rain gardens, streambank and shoreline protection, and prescribed grazing.

Non-governmental organizations and tribal governments are eligible for this funding.

• A non-governmental organization is defined as an organization that is a nonprofit, also known as a charitable organization, that is formed for the purpose of fulfilling a mission to improve the common good of society rather than to acquire and distribute profits. The organization meets the definition in Minn. Stat. §309.50 Subd. 4 and meets the Internal Revenue Service code definitions, with the most common type being a 501 (c) (3), (Policy 08-06 Minnesota Office of Grants Management).
• Minnesota Tribal Governments refers to the federally recognized sovereign tribal nations that share geography with Minnesota (MINN STAT. 10.65), the 1854 Treaty Authority, and the Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission. 

ABOUT ROOTED IN JUSTICE

“Rooted in Justice” is a funding program designed to help amplify youth voices and actions in the environmental and food justice movements.  Rooted in Justice supports community-based organizations and groups that manage established, youth-led, urban greening programs within a justice framework as a core part of their work, with two-year grants of $25,000/year.  

Rooted in Justice recognizes the importance and undeniable right of every young person to have the ability to develop their own relationship with the environment, be it through growing food, spending time with nature, creating community green spaces, or becoming environmental stewards. Rooted in Justice also honors the power and possibilities that arise when young people collectively work to be change-makers in their communities.

Rooted in Justice supports organizations, groups, collectives, and programs that work with young people between the ages of 12 to 20 in youth-led programming for communities or cultures which have historically or currently experience:

• A lack of access to land or nature;
• Agricultural oppression and/or neglect;
• Food apartheid; and/or
• Other forms of injustice based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics and disability.

Rooted in Justice awards a small number of grants each year with applications due in the fall and decisions made the following spring. Final grant decisions are recommended to the Cedar Tree board via a participatory grantmaking process with outside reviewers who have experience in youth-led urban greening, as well as food or climate justice programming. So far the program has awarded multi-year grants to 21 organizations and one-time grants to 10 additional organizations since 2021. 

Definitions

Rooted in Justice grants support organizations or programs that include all four of the elements described below: social justice, youth-led, urban greening, and cohort-based youth work. We articulate our understanding of those terms below in an effort to provide a guide for prospective organizations to use in determining whether their program is a good fit. However as we continue our work towards questioning and dismantling some of our preconceived notions, we recognize that these are not finite definitions and encourage prospective applicants who still feel their work may be a good fit to describe in their proposals why this is the case.  

Social Justice-Based Programs

Programs dedicated to creating equitable outcomes for communities directly affected by different aspects of injustice by:

• Sharing and redistributing power and resources;
• Amplifying voices and leadership;
• Tackling root problems through ongoing engagement and collaboration to find solutions, organize against oppression of all kinds and create mechanisms for change; and
• Developing a critical analysis with youth and community members.

Youth-Led

The development of youth leadership skills is a core part of programs funded by Rooted in Justice. Young people have the opportunity to play a role in the planning and decision-making for their program and may help shape the internal workings of the organization. Examples of youth-led programs include programs where participants: 

• Managing a portion of their programming budget;
• Co-facilitating program activities, meetings and gatherings;
• Shape their own programming and/or organizational strategic planning;
• Have regular and end-of-program opportunities to provide program feedback and evaluation; and
• Have opportunities for personal and/or professional growth within the program and organization.

Urban Greening

For the purpose of this grant we define “urban greening” as any activity that creates a mutually beneficial relationship between city dwellers and their environments. Programs that are a strong fit for Rooted in Justice will have many opportunities for youth to be outdoors.  Project settings can include, but are not limited to: 

• Urban and aquaponic farms
• Greenhouses and rooftop gardens
• Community gardens, green spaces, and rain gardens
• Composting sites
• Land conservation efforts
• Urban forests
• River or other water restoration  

Cohort-Based Youth Works

Rooted in Justice looks to fund organizations that build community with cohorts of youth through intentional, recurring programming. This grant is intended to support programs that offer youth significant learning and leadership opportunities as a group and as individuals. Priority will be given to organizations that have program infrastructure that supports a cohort of youth over time.  Drop-in programming, one-time conferences, or individual internships are not a good fit for Rooted in Justice.  

Youth Budgeting

As part of grant proposal, all Rooted in Justice grantees must share a plan to allocate a portion of the grant funds for youth participants to manage. What do we mean by this? We ask applicants to specifically set aside some amount of grant funds for youth to allocate to priorities of their choosing.  For example, youth participants can use their allocated funding to:

• Fund an entrepreneurial endeavor;
• Design the brand or swag for their group;
• Hire a speaker or outside expert to teach a new skill;
• Purchase supplies for a community-based art project;
• Host a celebration for their families, friends and neighbors;
• Pay for transportation to programming, special events, or conferences; and/or
• Any other youth-led activity the group may find beneficial.

Use of Funds

Rooted in Justice funding must be used for project support of existing youth led, urban greening, social justice work and associated general operating expenses. Operating expenses can include anything from program costs like staff salaries and youth stipends to organizational sustainability needs like major equipment purchases and leadership/staff training. If your organization’s entire mission is youth led, urban greening, social justice work, the Rooted in Justice grant can be general support. 

Funding

Two Year Grant

• Rooted in Justice Grant awards are two-year grants of $25,000 per year.
• After the initial two year grant, grantees may be eligible for a third year of funding at the same or lower level through a simple renewal process.
• In the 2025-2026 grant cycle, the Cedar Tree Foundation expects to support 4 organizations with multi-year grant awards.

Funding for Professional Development

• Each Rooted in Justice grantee organization also has access to an additional $6,000 to support professional development opportunities identified by each organization.  Half of these funds must be used to directly support the professional development of youth. 
• Rooted in Justice grantees can request reimbursement from this professional development fund to attend conferences, hire consultants, purchase equipment or software that increases organizational capacity, or participate in any activities that strengthen youth programming or justice practice of program providers in support of their youth development programming. The funds set aside for youth professional development can be used for youth exchanges or youth participation in conferences and other professional development opportunities directly for youth.  

Community Professional Development Calls

• Cedar Tree works with grantee partners to assess their professional development interests and facilitates on-line gatherings of staff or youth for skill shares, trainings, and networking opportunities.
• These network calls will likely happen 2-3 times per year.