Best Olmsted County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The SEMAC: General Operating Support Grants invite nonprofit arts organizations in the SEMAC region, with operating expenses under $174,000, to apply for funding aimed at enhancing their stability through administrative support. Grants of up to $5,000 annually (totaling $10,000 over two years) are available, with recipients required to submit an interim report after the first year. Applications are accepted until funds are depleted, with specific deadlines for notifications.

The SEMAC Opportunity Grants provide vital support to nonprofit arts organizations and educational institutions for unexpected projects. These grants do not require matching funds and are available to eligible applicants in southeastern Minnesota. Organizations can apply twice per fiscal year, with projects needing to be completed within twelve months. The application deadline is fifteen days before the project start date, ensuring timely funding for artistic initiatives that benefit the community.

Democracy Grant Program 

Our Democracy Grant Program will consider proposals that address one or more of the following:

• Organizing across issues (e.g., economic justice, climate justice) that builds power and strengthens democratic participation and/or works to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communities
• Narrative infrastructure and storytelling that expands civic voice and dialogue toward an equitable democracy and a just Minnesota
• Infrastructure and institution building that expands our movement landscape, strengthens leaders and equips our changemaking ecosystem for lasting power-building

We understand this work of realizing and strengthening our democracy manifests across issues. We also understand that organizing leverages various strategies required to shape political agendas and social conditions for long-term change include strengthening narrative infrastructure, organizing resources, increasing democratic participation, and building new institutions.

Organizing that works to change the material conditions of communities will both fortify our civic infrastructure and strengthen the democratic participation of communities across the state. Efforts grounded in strong issue-based campaigns, the defense of democratic institutions, leadership development that brings new leaders into the fold, and an orientation of institution building all lay the groundwork for long-term change.

Funded work could include any of the following and more:

• Cross-issue organizing around topics of economic justice, public safety, environment/climate, LGBTQIA+ rights, racial justice, immigration, Indigenous governance and sovereignty, civic engagement working to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communities
• Organizing strategies that expand base-building and grow new constituencies to build a bigger “we”
• Organizing that builds narrative infrastructure and power to shape storytelling and expand civic discourse for a just Minnesota

Grant Details

Grant amounts will be $100,000 per year for a five-year grant period, for total grant amounts of $500,000 per grantee

In 2026, up to $2,000,000 is available for this grant program, and we anticipate awarding approximately 20 grants

Stewartville Area Community Foundation

The Stewartville Area Community Foundation was formed on April 3, 2000. The Foundation serves as a tax advantage conduit for donated funds to benefit specific community projects. 

In the past years, over $475,000 has been received and used for the betterment of the Greater Stewartville Area by:

• Enhancing our Aquatic Center
• Building Tennis Courts at Bear Cave Park
• Facilitating & Improving Walking/Biking Trails throughout the Community
• Funding Projects for the Bear Cave Master Plan including the Bear Cave Amphitheater

Our Mission

The Stewartville Area Community Foundation (SACF) strives to build a dynamic community by encouraging generosity, promoting civic engagement and providing the opportunity to enhance the quality of life by creating community partnerships.

Our mission for the Stewartville Area Community Foundation is to serve the greater Stewartville area by supporting programs and projects that improve the quality of life and build a stronger community.

SACF Grant

The SACF awards grants to support programs and projects that improve the quality of life and build a stronger sense of community in the Stewartville area. Possible areas of funding include but are not limited to education, engaged seniors, arts & culture, civic & community improvement and health & wellness.

The SACF awards grants in the form of matching funds with an upper limit. This is to encourage organizations asking for grants to be actively involved in fund raising. Generally, the SACF will match up to 50% of the project. Grants are awarded as funding permits and based on the decisions of the SACF Board of Directors. The SACF Board of Directors will have 30 days to act on a funding decision. Grant requests will be reviewed at the end of each quarter. The SACF will provide a written notice of award after their review. 

The Chosen Valley Community Foundation

The Chosen Valley Community Foundation works to strengthen our community through meaningful philanthropy. Donations made to the Foundation stay in our community and are distributed through our Grants, Scholarships, and Special Projects programs.

An affiliate of the Rochester Area Foundation and serving the Chatfield School District area, The Chosen Valley Community Foundation is a Minnesota non-profit corporation recognized as a 501(c)3 tax-exempt organization by the IRS.

Fall Community Grants

The Chosen Valley Community Foundation welcomes grant applications that serve the Chatfield community and enhance the quality of life for its citizens. Grants are awarded annually as funding permits.

Grant Criteria:

• Project must have a timeline and clearly stated, measurable goals and outcomes.
• Organization must complete final report within 30 days of the end of project. The final report form is available on the website.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial supports farmers by enhancing their marketing and technology capabilities. Grants can be utilized for branding, website creation, and payment technologies, as well as essential equipment like scales and tents. This initiative aims to promote direct consumer engagement and strengthen local food systems, ensuring fresh produce accessibility while fostering economic growth in rural communities. Eligible applicants must be Compeer clients actively participating in verified farmers markets.

Compeer Financial's Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program aims to enhance collaboration among rural fire, rescue, and ambulance departments by providing funding for specialized equipment. Grants of up to $10,000 support projects that improve emergency response capabilities, encouraging teamwork among departments serving adjacent jurisdictions. Eligible applicants must operate within Compeer's 144-county territory and demonstrate a clear plan for equipment use. This initiative underscores the importance of community cooperation in ensuring effective emergency services in rural areas.

The Programming Grants for Arts Organizations, previously known as Presenter/Production Assistance Grants, provide funding to nonprofit organizations and artists in Southeastern Minnesota. Sponsored by the Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council, these grants support arts-related programming, including public performances and educational activities. Organizations must demonstrate artistic quality and community impact, while educational institutions are eligible for Presenter Assistance. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to foster creativity and cultural engagement in the region.

The Institutional Impact Grants by Wake Forest University aim to support U.S. colleges and universities in fostering moral, civic, and intellectual character among their community members. In 2026, these grants will empower institutions committed to character development for faculty, staff, and students, promoting a holistic educational environment. This initiative underscores the importance of character in education, aligning with the university's mission to cultivate ethical leaders.

The Armando "Frank" Quaglia Veteran's Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports full-time graduate or upper-level undergraduate students from Kent or Ionia County pursuing healthcare or engineering degrees. With a minimum 3.0 GPA, preference is given to veterans and their families. This scholarship aims to eliminate barriers to education, fostering academic success and connecting students to opportunities in West Michigan's inclusive community.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund.

James D. Eunice Legacy Scholarship

For graduating seniors from a high school located in South Georgia within the service area of CFSGA who have attained at least a 2.5 GPA in high school. Awards are based on academics, leadership qualities, extracurricular school activities, character, community service and personal integrity, and financial need.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Geraldine Grant Memorial Scholarship

The award is based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Community Service and Financial Need. Special consideration will be given to applicants from an underrepresented minority population as well as applicants who intend to major in Business, Accounting, Finance, Management or another business-related field of study. 

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Hosea Hall & Lilly Eason Vann Scholarship

For a graduating senior of a high school located in Thomas County, Georgia who has attained at least a 3.0 GPA in high school. The award is based on Academics, Financial Need, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular Activities and Community Service.

The Audrey L. Wright Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who are long-term residents of Kent County. This scholarship is aimed at those pursuing education or language studies and requires a minimum GPA of 3.0. By removing barriers to academic success, it empowers local students to achieve their educational ambitions and contributes to a thriving and inclusive community in West Michigan.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Stephen A. Johnston Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a college sophomore, junior, or senior or a graduate student who is majoring in plant pathology or has demonstrated an interest in vegetable crop production or a related field. Preference will be given to a student who can demonstrate evidence of an association with the Rutgers University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.

The Exploring Christian Practices Initiative by Lilly Endowment aims to enhance access to settings that enable diverse individuals to engage in Christian practices. This initiative seeks to address spiritual interests, foster community connections, and support the growth of faith. By multiplying opportunities for exploration, it encourages meaningful participation in religious life and nurtures a deeper understanding of Christian traditions.

The Altrusa International of Grand Rapids Scholarship, supported by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, aims to empower students from Allegan, Kent, Ionia, Muskegon, Montcalm, and Ottawa Counties. This scholarship is intended for individuals returning to college or entering after a two-year hiatus, emphasizing inclusivity and support for those with financial need. Recipients can benefit from awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, which are directly applied to educational costs, enhancing opportunities for academic and career advancement.

The Black Men Building Resources Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports African-American undergraduates from Kent County. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing college or career training by removing barriers to academic success. With awards ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, the program prioritizes applicants with high financial need, ensuring that opportunities are accessible to those who strive for educational advancement in West Michigan.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Vincent P. Arabia Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior or undergraduate student who is blind/visually impaired or has a permanent physical disability that impedes their mobility. The opportunity is open statewide, with preference given to South Jersey students (particular emphasis on Burlington County). Students will be evaluated on academic performance and unmet financial need.

Who We Are

Founded in 1996, the Community Foundation of South Georgia is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to making South Georgia a better place to live through effective philanthropy. We help individuals, families, nonprofit organizations and businesses establish and manage charitable funds that carry out their philanthropic interests. Serving a geographic area of 35 counties in South Georgia, we facilitate our donors’ charitable plans and goals by creating custom designed funds that meet their specific interests and ensure solid financial management and administration for each fund. 

Mary Smith Gay Scholarship

For a graduating senior from a public high school located in Albany, GA or a member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church located in Albany, GA. All applicants must have a minimum high school GPA of 2.50. The award is based on Academics, Leadership Qualities, Extracurricular School Activities, Character, Community Service, Personal Integrity, and Financial Need. Special consideration will be given to members of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church. This scholarship is given by the family of Caroline Cobey Goodwin, in loving memory of Ms. Mary Smith Gay. 

The Wake Forest Capacity Building Grant, part of the Educating Character Initiative, aims to enhance character education in U.S. higher education institutions. Established in 2023 with support from Lilly Endowment Inc., the initiative has already provided $35 million in grants to 146 institutions. In 2026, new grants will be awarded to colleges and universities focused on fostering moral, civic, and intellectual character among their faculty, staff, and students.

The Bob Zylstra STEM Scholarship, offered by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports undergraduate students who identify as female or as students of color from West Michigan. This scholarship aims to empower students pursuing STEM majors by removing barriers to education and fostering diversity in these fields. Each year, the foundation awards scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to help students achieve their academic and career aspirations.

The Carolyn Gallmeyer Scholarship, provided by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation, supports students from Kent County pursuing college or career training. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education, empowering students to achieve their aspirations. With awards typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, it directly contributes to tuition and essential costs. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive in their academic journeys.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship

The Don Carano Legacy Scholarship was established to provide support for dependents of Caesars Entertainment Team Members who are a graduating high school senior or who are enrolled in a college or advanced learning program. The qualifying Team Member must be a Management Grade 14 or below, have minimum two (2) years of full-time service with the company, and be in good standing with no written discipline at the time of application.

Awards will be a fixed amount of $5,000; recipients may reapply for up to three (3) additional years. Scholarship awards will be distributed to any college, university, trade school, or degree-granting program for the student's benefit upon confirmation of enrollment, and upon completing and signing a scholarship acceptance agreement.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Robert and Judy Dreiling Scholarship

This scholarship offered to northern Nevada residents who are high school graduates or who have earned a high school equivalency certificate and adults seeking education to attain better employment.

The ideal candidates will be enrolled in an Associate's Degree track or certificate program at the school of their choice; the degree track or certificate program should result in a good lead to a good job. 

The scholarship will pay up to $5,000 for an Associate’s Degree or certificate program at private trade schools or community colleges for one or more candidates. You will be asked to write brief essays discussing: your life, your plans for the future, why you chose your certificate program, and how your education will impact your life and your family.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship honors the brave firefighters and law enforcement officers who safeguarded our Nevada communities by supporting their family members' pursuit of higher education.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Scholarship was established by the residents of the Montreux, Arrowcreek, Saddlehorn, and surrounding communities to demonstrate deep appreciation for the firefighters and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to hold the fire line during the September 2024 Davis Fire and saved their homes.

The Davis Fire Appreciation Family Scholarships are offered to family members of Nevada firefighters and/or family members of law enforcement who are seeking a 2- or 4-year degree, trade school, or vocational certificate. This is a one-time award of $3,000.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. Scholarship award amounts range from $1,000 - $5,000 for a single year.

Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund

Aging out of foster care or child welfare custody in Nevada?

The Otto A. Huth Scholarship Fund is established to provide support for youth who are about to age out of foster care or have already aged out of foster care in the state of Nevada who are seeking support for post-high school education (university, community college, business school, and trade school) at institutions located within the United States. Applicants must apply before their 21st birthday.

Applicants may apply for a scholarship for a maximum of 5 years for up to $40,000 in total. Annual scholarship awards are not to exceed $10,000. Scholarship awards may cover tuition, on-campus room & board, books, student health insurance, on-campus meal plans, and other education-related expenses.