Search Through Pierce County Grants for Nonprofits in Wisconsin

Global Impact Cash Grants

Identifying and incubating innovative early-stage solutions. We identify, incubate, and develop innovative early-stage solutions with the highest potential for impact. Global Impact Cash Grants go to nonprofit organizations (NPOs) and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) that address a significant social problem. We're looking for programs that fit within our investment sectors, focus on the underserved, and use technology to improve the reach and efficiency of services.

We accept applications year-round from eligible organizations. A brief Letter of Inquiry (LOI) is used to determine whether your organization will be invited to complete a full application. Please expand and carefully review each of the three sections below to learn more

Our priority social impact sectors

We focus on investing in innovative, tech-enabled solutions to the challenges and opportunities that matter most to communities in need, prioritizing four social impact sectors:

Cisco Crisis Response

Mobilizing to provide essentials to communities in need and those in crisis, including food, housing, secure connectivity, and disaster relief

By leveraging Cisco’s people, technology, financial resources, and strategic partnerships, we help strengthen community resilience and drive long-term recovery from crises.

Education

Supporting students, teachers, and schools by increasing engagement, building skills, promoting subject mastery, and expanding their capacity to thrive

Cisco is committed to inclusive access to digital skills training and supporting those who use technology to educate. Through programs like Cisco Networking Academy and social investments in education, we create new opportunities for individuals to thrive.

Economic Empowerment

Transforming communities through skill development, long-term career opportunities, entrepreneurship, and access to financial products and services

Strategic grants that unlock economic prosperity and growth for individuals and communities.

Climate Regeneration

Building an inclusive, regenerative, and resilient climate future through education, regenerative agriculture, conservation, protection, and clean energy solutions

Our efforts began in 2021, when the Cisco Foundation committed US$100 million over 10 years to fund nonprofit grants and impact investing in climate solutions. 

Michael & Susan Dell Foundation Grants

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation only accepts unsolicited proposals for specific areas within the education, family economic stability and childhood health sectors in select countries where we work, namely the United States, India and South Africa.

As a guideline, the foundation does not fund more than 25% of a project’s budget or more than 10% of an organization’s total annual operating expenses.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation has always recognized the power of providing grants to partner organizations that we knew were already working hard to improve the lives of urban children living in poverty. By aligning with organizations that are already making a difference, we continue to make an immediate impact on the lives of thousands of children.

Foundation priorities:

We fund social enterprises that directly serve or impact children or youth from urban low-income communities in the areas of education, health, and family economic stability (including livelihoods and financial inclusion). These social enterprises may be structured as for-profit or nonprofit entities.

Partnerships

We collaborate with a range of organizations focused on creating opportunities for children and families living in urban poverty, with a deep emphasis on measuring impact. Our funding advances projects already making an impact in education, health, and family economic stability. Through these enduring and long-standing partnerships, we create lasting change together.

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants

Every day, nonprofits across the St. Croix Valley meet urgent community needs while balancing limited resources, growing demand, and constant change. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program was created to support you — with flexible funding for the people, plans, and systems that keep your organization strong.

​Whether you’re planning for the future, implementing new systems, or collaborating with partners to meet regional needs, these grants are designed to help you build strength for the long haul.

​Funded through the Nonprofit Stability Collaborative Fund, this program invests in the long-term health and sustainability of our region’s nonprofits — so together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Valley. 

What We Fund

Capacity building is an investment in your organization’s ability to grow, sustain impact, and adapt—whether through refinement, expansion, collaboration, or even sunsetting—in service of your mission and the greater good. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations at different stages of readiness through four distinct avenues of funding.

• ​Experiences – Learning and professional growth for nonprofit leaders and staff. 
• Planning – Strategic assessments and planning to chart a path forward. 
• Implementation – Putting a clear capacity-building plan into action.
• System-Wide Infrastructure – Shared tools and collaborations that strengthen the entire sector. 

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants: Experiences – Learning and professional growth for nonprofit leaders and staff

Examples: Executive coaching, peer learning cohorts, leadership training, DEIB learning journeys, or conference participation.

Grant size: Up to $10,000

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants

Every day, nonprofits across the St. Croix Valley meet urgent community needs while balancing limited resources, growing demand, and constant change. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program was created to support you — with flexible funding for the people, plans, and systems that keep your organization strong.

​Whether you’re planning for the future, implementing new systems, or collaborating with partners to meet regional needs, these grants are designed to help you build strength for the long haul.

​Funded through the Nonprofit Stability Collaborative Fund, this program invests in the long-term health and sustainability of our region’s nonprofits — so together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Valley. 

What We Fund

Capacity building is an investment in your organization’s ability to grow, sustain impact, and adapt—whether through refinement, expansion, collaboration, or even sunsetting—in service of your mission and the greater good. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations at different stages of readiness through four distinct avenues of funding.

• ​Experiences – Learning and professional growth for nonprofit leaders and staff. 
• Planning – Strategic assessments and planning to chart a path forward. 
• Implementation – Putting a clear capacity-building plan into action.
• System-Wide Infrastructure – Shared tools and collaborations that strengthen the entire sector. 

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants: Implementation – Putting a clear capacity-building plan into action

Examples: Launching a new CRM or financial system, upgrading operations, expanding fundraising or communications, implementing Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) initiatives, temporary staff or consultants, professional services for organizational change.

Grant size: Up to $100,000 

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants

Every day, nonprofits across the St. Croix Valley meet urgent community needs while balancing limited resources, growing demand, and constant change. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program was created to support you — with flexible funding for the people, plans, and systems that keep your organization strong.

​Whether you’re planning for the future, implementing new systems, or collaborating with partners to meet regional needs, these grants are designed to help you build strength for the long haul.

​Funded through the Nonprofit Stability Collaborative Fund, this program invests in the long-term health and sustainability of our region’s nonprofits — so together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Valley. 

What We Fund

Capacity building is an investment in your organization’s ability to grow, sustain impact, and adapt—whether through refinement, expansion, collaboration, or even sunsetting—in service of your mission and the greater good. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations at different stages of readiness through four distinct avenues of funding.

• ​Experiences – Learning and professional growth for nonprofit leaders and staff. 
• Planning – Strategic assessments and planning to chart a path forward. 
• Implementation – Putting a clear capacity-building plan into action.
• System-Wide Infrastructure – Shared tools and collaborations that strengthen the entire sector. 

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants: Planning – Strategic assessments and planning to chart a path forward

Examples: Organizational assessments, business or strategic plans, succession planning, technology or financial system evaluations, exploration of mergers or restructuring, fundraising or communications strategy, temporary staff or consultants.

Grant size: Up to $25,000 

Our Mission

The Tony Robbins Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to empower individuals and organizations to make a significant difference in the quality of life of people often forgotten.

We’re dedicated to creating positive changes in the lives of youth, seniors, the hungry, homeless and the imprisoned population, all who need a boost envisioning a happier and deeply satisfying way of life. Our passionate staff, generous donors and caring group of international volunteers provide the vision, inspiration, and resources needed to empower these important members of our society.

Grants

Dedicated to meeting challenges within the global community, creating solutions and taking action, The Tony Robbins Foundation provides monetary donations to various organizations around the world. Funding requests are evaluated on an ongoing basis. We look for organizations that align with our mission to empower individuals and organizations to make a significant difference in the quality of life of those often forgotten.

First Thousand Days Grant Program Guidelines

What is the background and focus of the First Thousand Days grant program?

More than ever before, early childhood education is understood as an essential element for our children, families, and communities to thrive. Yet, the United States currently invests about one ninth as much per child per year on care and education in the first five years of life as in each of the next 13. The St. Croix Valley Foundation’s First Thousand Days Fund was established by a generous donor in 2022 to support the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of children during the critical “first thousand days of life” (roughly the first three years). In 2023, the earnings from this endowed fund will be used to launch The First Thousand Days grant program, funding organizations and programs that prepare children to succeed when they enter school.

The grant program acknowledges that there are several domains of early childhood development including: Physical, Cognitive, Communicative, Social and Emotional, and Adaptive

• Physical: The development of the senses as well as gross and fine motor skills.
• Cognitive: The ability to mentally process information.
• Communicative: The ability to comprehend, utilize, and manipulate language.
• Socioemotional: “The process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success.” 
• Adaptive: Self-care (eating, drinking, getting dressed, etc.).

The program also recognizes that “there is considerable overlap across these domains and competencies” and therefore intends to fund programs and organizations that foster children’s development and learning in multiple domains. 

Fueling Creativity. Building Community.

The Valley Arts Grant Program supports high-quality arts experiences that strengthen community connection, expand access, and celebrate creative expression throughout the St. Croix Valley. 

From performances and exhibitions to workshops and installations, these grants make it possible for artists and nonprofits to inspire, engage, and connect people of all ages and backgrounds.

Funded collaboratively by the St. Croix Valley Foundation, Hugh J. Andersen Foundation, and Wisconsin Arts Board, this program reflects a shared belief that the arts are essential to a vibrant and inclusive region—enhancing quality of life, fostering civic engagement, and building bridges across differences.

What We Fund

Valley Arts Grants provide funding for both program support and general operating support to organizations that bring meaningful arts experiences to life. 

Examples of eligible activities include: 

• Performing arts productions and musical concerts 
• Visual arts exhibitions and festivals 
• Artist residencies, workshops, and educational events 
• Collaborative or place-based community art projects 
• Public art installations and cultural events that engage broad audiences 

Funding Categories

Organizations with arts at the core of their mission and programs may apply for either:

• Program Support or
• General Operating Support

Non-Arts organizations may apply for:

• Program Support for arts programming that deeply engages artists and participants

Award Amounts: 

$500–$5,000 for either program support or general operating support

(Eligible only for organizations with arts at the core of their mission)

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves six counties bordering the St. Croix River through local partnerships and place-based philanthropy. We serve:

• Minnesota: Chisago County, Washington County
• Wisconsin: Burnett County, Pierce County, Polk County, St. Croix County

Since our founding in 1995, we’ve:

• Grown to 500+ charitable funds and $100M+ in assets
• Facilitated $100M+ in grants and scholarships, including $5.8 million in 2024
• Partnered with local community affiliates led by volunteers who help guide grantmaking, grow local endowments, and connect donors to opportunities close to home.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants

Every day, nonprofits across the St. Croix Valley meet urgent community needs while balancing limited resources, growing demand, and constant change. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program was created to support you — with flexible funding for the people, plans, and systems that keep your organization strong.

​Whether you’re planning for the future, implementing new systems, or collaborating with partners to meet regional needs, these grants are designed to help you build strength for the long haul.

​Funded through the Nonprofit Stability Collaborative Fund, this program invests in the long-term health and sustainability of our region’s nonprofits — so together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Valley. 

What We Fund

Capacity building is an investment in your organization’s ability to grow, sustain impact, and adapt—whether through refinement, expansion, collaboration, or even sunsetting—in service of your mission and the greater good. The Nonprofit Capacity Building Grant Program supports organizations at different stages of readiness through four distinct avenues of funding.

• ​Experiences – Learning and professional growth for nonprofit leaders and staff. 
• Planning – Strategic assessments and planning to chart a path forward. 
• Implementation – Putting a clear capacity-building plan into action.
• System-Wide Infrastructure – Shared tools and collaborations that strengthen the entire sector. 

Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants: System-Wide Infrastructure – Shared tools and collaborations that strengthen the entire sector

Examples: Shared data or referral systems, joint training platforms, shared back-office or HR services, collaborative advocacy or regional knowledge-sharing networks.

Grant size: Up to $250,000 

St. Croix Valley Foundation

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a community-based philanthropic organization that connects local generosity with meaningful impact across the St. Croix Valley region. It serves six counties along the St. Croix River—two in Minnesota and four in Wisconsin—and supports charitable funds, endowments, grants, scholarships, and nonprofit capacity-building. Since its founding in 1995, the Foundation has grown to more than 500 charitable funds and over $100 million in assets, and has facilitated more than $100 million in grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s mission is to help generosity take root in the place people love—turning donors’ passions and values into lasting impact for the communities of the St. Croix Valley and beyond. It operates through trusted stewardship, deep local knowledge, and strong regional partnerships to support the people, programs and ideas shaping life in the Valley. 

The Foundation envisions thriving communities now and in the future, where investment in people, programs and place leads to enduring prosperity and wellbeing. It believes that legacy isn’t only what one leaves behind—it’s what one grows while living, and it invites donors to engage in giving today or plan for tomorrow in order to create something that matters for generations.

Bethany's Butterflies Scholarship Program

The Bethany’s Butterflies Scholarship offers up to $500 for Wisconsin students (age 21 or younger) with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) who attend school in Polk, St. Croix, or Pierce County. Funds support enhanced learning, outdoor, or recreational experiences that will benefit the applicant. Scholarships are reviewed monthly with no hard deadline, while funds last. In memory of Bethany Mazur, this opportunity is managed by the St. Croix Valley Foundation.

St. Croix Valley Foundation

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a community-based philanthropic organization that connects local generosity with meaningful impact across the St. Croix Valley region. It serves six counties along the St. Croix River—two in Minnesota and four in Wisconsin—and supports charitable funds, endowments, grants, scholarships, and nonprofit capacity-building. Since its founding in 1995, the Foundation has grown to more than 500 charitable funds and over $100 million in assets, and has facilitated more than $100 million in grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s mission is to help generosity take root in the place people love—turning donors’ passions and values into lasting impact for the communities of the St. Croix Valley and beyond. It operates through trusted stewardship, deep local knowledge, and strong regional partnerships to support the people, programs and ideas shaping life in the Valley. 

The Foundation envisions thriving communities now and in the future, where investment in people, programs and place leads to enduring prosperity and wellbeing. It believes that legacy isn’t only what one leaves behind—it’s what one grows while living, and it invites donors to engage in giving today or plan for tomorrow in order to create something that matters for generations.

Hudson Physicians Scholarship

Scholarship for Students Pursuing Healthcare is available for graduating senior from high schools in St. Croix or Pierce Counties.

St. Croix Valley Foundation

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a community-based philanthropic organization that connects local generosity with meaningful impact across the St. Croix Valley region. It serves six counties along the St. Croix River—two in Minnesota and four in Wisconsin—and supports charitable funds, endowments, grants, scholarships, and nonprofit capacity-building. Since its founding in 1995, the Foundation has grown to more than 500 charitable funds and over $100 million in assets, and has facilitated more than $100 million in grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s mission is to help generosity take root in the place people love—turning donors’ passions and values into lasting impact for the communities of the St. Croix Valley and beyond. It operates through trusted stewardship, deep local knowledge, and strong regional partnerships to support the people, programs and ideas shaping life in the Valley. 

The Foundation envisions thriving communities now and in the future, where investment in people, programs and place leads to enduring prosperity and wellbeing. It believes that legacy isn’t only what one leaves behind—it’s what one grows while living, and it invites donors to engage in giving today or plan for tomorrow in order to create something that matters for generations.

McKernon Scholarship

Scholarship for Elmwood High School and Non-Traditional Students with financial need living in Pierce county and seeking their first degree. 

St. Croix Valley Foundation

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a community-based philanthropic organization that connects local generosity with meaningful impact across the St. Croix Valley region. It serves six counties along the St. Croix River—two in Minnesota and four in Wisconsin—and supports charitable funds, endowments, grants, scholarships, and nonprofit capacity-building. Since its founding in 1995, the Foundation has grown to more than 500 charitable funds and over $100 million in assets, and has facilitated more than $100 million in grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s mission is to help generosity take root in the place people love—turning donors’ passions and values into lasting impact for the communities of the St. Croix Valley and beyond. It operates through trusted stewardship, deep local knowledge, and strong regional partnerships to support the people, programs and ideas shaping life in the Valley. 

The Foundation envisions thriving communities now and in the future, where investment in people, programs and place leads to enduring prosperity and wellbeing. It believes that legacy isn’t only what one leaves behind—it’s what one grows while living, and it invites donors to engage in giving today or plan for tomorrow in order to create something that matters for generations.

Stinn & Oebser Scholarship

Scholarship for Students Pursuing Trade School, College, or University from Pierce Counties (Wisconsin) or Harlan Community School District (Iowa) .

St. Croix Valley Foundation

The St. Croix Valley Foundation is a community-based philanthropic organization that connects local generosity with meaningful impact across the St. Croix Valley region. It serves six counties along the St. Croix River—two in Minnesota and four in Wisconsin—and supports charitable funds, endowments, grants, scholarships, and nonprofit capacity-building. Since its founding in 1995, the Foundation has grown to more than 500 charitable funds and over $100 million in assets, and has facilitated more than $100 million in grants and scholarships.

The Foundation’s mission is to help generosity take root in the place people love—turning donors’ passions and values into lasting impact for the communities of the St. Croix Valley and beyond. It operates through trusted stewardship, deep local knowledge, and strong regional partnerships to support the people, programs and ideas shaping life in the Valley. 

The Foundation envisions thriving communities now and in the future, where investment in people, programs and place leads to enduring prosperity and wellbeing. It believes that legacy isn’t only what one leaves behind—it’s what one grows while living, and it invites donors to engage in giving today or plan for tomorrow in order to create something that matters for generations.

Western WI Automotive Trades Scholarship 

For those earning a degree in frontline auto repair. Priority given to studentsplanning to use their degree to work in the St. Croix Valley region.

Mission

The mission of the St. Croix Valley Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in the St. Croix.

Vibrant Communities Mental Health Grant Program

For many years, qualitative and quantitative health data has identified mental health as a priority throughout the St. Croix Valley Foundation’s (SCVF’s) six-county service area (Chisago and Washington counties in MN and Burnett, Polk, St. Croix and Pierce counties in WI). Our local data align with national data which find:

• More than 50% of adults will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime.
• 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in a given year.
• 1 in 5 children, either currently or at some point during their lifetime, have had a seriously debilitating mental illness.

The Vibrant Communities grant program recognizes that supporting mental health and wellbeing lies on a spectrum from prevention to management. Each stage of the spectrum addresses important aspects in helping people achieve and maintain positive mental health and wellbeing.

Focus Areas & Funding Examples

The Vibrant Communities grant program intends to fund programs that address any aspect of the mental health and wellbeing spectrum. To help organizations determine if their programs address the mental health and wellbeing spectrum, please find examples of previously funded programs below.

• Prevention:
  • Programs for individuals and/or families who are at high-risk for mental health conditions that aim to encourage resiliency, help improve overall mental well-being, and/or address social determinates of health (SDOH).
  • Examples:
    • Mentoring programs that develop positive relationships with at-risk youth.
    • Programs that connect at-risk parents and their children to resources that build resiliency and address social and emotional needs and development.
• Access:
  • Programs that help eliminate or reduce barriers to accessing mental health services.
  • Examples:
    • Mental health evaluations offered with interpretational help.
    • Treatments, medications, and services offered to patients at reduced cost.
• Illness Identification / Diagnosis:
  • Programs that help individuals/organizations understand the warning signs of mental health conditions and/or programs that help people living with mental health conditions receive an accurate diagnosis.
  • Examples:
    • Training for individuals to identify mental health crisis and respond appropriately.
    • Training or implementation of new diagnostic assessment tools to support early diagnosis of mental illness.
• Treatment / Intervention:
  • Treatment programs vary based on the mental health diagnoses and may include medication, counseling (therapy), and education.
  • Examples:
    • Individual and family counseling and therapy.
    • School-based behavioral health intervention.
• Management:
  • Programs that help manage symptoms of diagnosed mental health conditions.
  • Examples:
    • Case and resource management for people living with severe and persistent mental illness.
    • Vocational training and intervention to help people living with mental health conditions obtain and maintain employment.

Grant Range

• Affiliate Community Grants: $500 to $6,000
• Multi-Affiliate Grants: $500 to $10,000

Mission

The Mission of the Foundation is to provide resources to nonprofit organizations that build thriving communities and improve the quality of life primarily in the St. Croix Valley geographic region of Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Funding Priorities

The Foundation has established a focused set of priorities and welcomes requests for general operations, programs, or projects.  Capital requests may be considered on a more limited basis.

• Healthcare
  • Medical Research
  • Mental/Chemical Health
  • Hospitals
• Housing
  • Affordable Housing for Families and Seniors
• Education
  • Youth Education Initiatives
• Human Services
  • Basic Needs
  • Food Insecurity
  • Employment
• Civic
  • Local Initiatives
• Environment
  • Environmental Education

About the Foundation

Jesse W. Couch lived a life of zeal, honor, and dedication to the betterment of his community. The Couch family now humbly stewards the foundation he created to carry on his legacy of service for future generations. We believe that impact is best accomplished through partnerships with local organizations that know the people and communities they serve. We invest in and support efforts to protect the environment, further conservation and preservation initiatives, and save historical architecture that preserves community heritage. We also support initiatives that promote wellness and mental health and organizations seeking to provide and further education for all communities.

Annual Grant Focus

Each year, we seek to partner with and support non-profit organizations making an impact in the focus areas listed here.  The focus areas for 2025 are:

• Animal Wellbeing: We are dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations that nurture compassion and respect for all living animals. We must have animal-focused organizations that advocate for animal rights and provide humane treatment across all spectrums.
• Early Childhood Education: We are looking for schools that are providing young children with a creative and balanced approach to education. Things we love in early childhood curriculums:
  • Life Skills
  • Collaboration With Their Peers and Teachers   
  • Having Fun   
  • Montessori Teachings   
  • Project Based Teachings   
  • Diversity   
  • More Time Outside   
  • Less Screen Time
• Teachers: Teachers are essential to providing children with the best possible education. We must invest in their future and are always looking for teams that help them succeed in educating future generations.
• Get Outside: Being outside can improve memory, fight depression, lower blood pressure, and more! We support organizations that facilitate and encourage more outdoor activities that help create healthier communities. 

Community Ties Giving Program

As part of the Community Ties Giving Program, Local Grants help us achieve our mission by providing small and medium-sized grants within our priority cause areas to local organizations spread widely across Union Pacific's footprint.

Funding Priorities & Objectives

Throughout its existence, the success of Union Pacific's business has been inextricably linked to the economic and community wellbeing of cities and towns across the nation. We take pride in the role we have played in helping communities thrive and believe the impact we can have on local communities is greatest when it is authentic to our history and reflective of the diverse company we are today.

As such, we have carefully aligned our Local Grants cause areas to our company's unique heritage, strengths, and assets. Specifically, we prioritize funding for direct services and efforts that build the capacity of organizations focused on the following causes within our local operating communities. Within each focus area, we aim to support programs and organizations working to advance the diversity, equity and inclusion of underrepresented populations within the local context and issue areas addressed. Find more information about our commitment to DEI in our FAQs.

Safety

In order for communities to thrive, all residents must feel safe. Just as the safety of our employees and community members is paramount to how we operate, Union Pacific is committed to helping communities prevent and prepare for incidents and emergencies, and helping residents get home safely at the end of each day. As such, we prioritize funding for projects and programs that seek to: 

• Encourage safe behaviors and prevent incidents through education and awareness, particularly projects which focus on rail, driver, bike, and pedestrian safety, and ensure outreach efforts reach underserved populations.
• Eliminate risks and improve safe and equitable access to community spaces through infrastructure improvements, such as signage, proper lighting, and public trail improvements.
• Prepare and equip residents and emergency responders* to effectively respond to incidents and emergencies if or when they occur.
  • *Union Pacific supports publicly funded emergency responders through a variety of corporate programs; only independent nonprofit, 501(c)(3) emergency response organizations, such as volunteer departments, are eligible for funding through this grant program
• Prevent crime and violent incidents and support survivors of domestic violence through efforts that address the root causes of these issues and seek to mitigate their occurrence.
• Build the capacity of safety-focused organizations to integrate practices that improve upon the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts of the organization. This can take the form of internal capacity building or the creation/expansion of culturally relevant programming and services that seek to impact a broad and diverse audience. 

Workforce Development

For more than 160 years, Union Pacific has helped stimulate economic growth in cities and towns throughout the nation by training and providing employment to millions of workers. More than ever, we are committed to helping underrepresented residents in our communities achieve family-supporting careers like those offered by Union Pacific. As such, we prioritize funding for programs that seek to:

• Put youth on the right track by creating awareness of and pathways toward employment opportunities; building foundational skills, especially in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM); establishing necessary technical skills and life skills; and providing mentorship and positive role models for the future.
• Raise awareness of, educate and prepare young adults for middle skills jobs like those Union Pacific offers, for instance through community colleges, vocational and career training programs, workforce readiness initiatives, and programs that assist with job placement and/or on-the-job experience.
  • Programs that develop proficiency in areas relevant to Union Pacific operations such as welding, electrical work, machine operations, and civil and electrical engineering are given priority.
• "Up-skill" the existing workforce by providing training and resources that enable them to reach the next level of their career.
  • Programs that develop proficiency in areas of relevance to Union Pacific operations are given priority.
• Resolve barriers to employment such as transportation, childcare, acquiring necessary equipment for work, and second chance employment programs.
• Build the capacity of workforce development-focused organizations to integrate practices that improve upon the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts of the organization. This can take the form of internal capacity building or the creation/expansion of culturally relevant programming and services that seek to impact a broad and diverse audience. 

Community Vitality

Union Pacific Railroad is committed to establishing vibrant, healthy and inclusive communities for employees, customers and residents to work, visit and call home. Just as the railroad opened avenues for economic development and opportunity more than 160 years ago, we maintain this tradition by cultivating unique cultural and recreational experiences and equipping community members with opportunities to live healthy, vital lives. As such, we prioritize funding for projects and programs that seek to:

• Create, sustain or expand artistic and cultural experiences offered to a broad and diverse audience (e.g., museums, theaters, zoos, cultural and local heritage, visual and performing arts, etc.)
• Provide recreational opportunities that foster wellbeing, enrichment and/or an appreciation for our natural environment (e.g., parks, libraries, senior centers, recreation centers, learning centers, etc.).
• Revive neighborhoods and main street areas, especially in historically underinvested neighborhoods, to improve livability, promote commerce and attract more residents, businesses and visitors to town.
• Ensure residents’ basic needs are met and barriers are overcome (e.g., safe shelter and homelessness prevention, hunger relief, mental health and community health needs, etc.).
• Offer youth development and educational opportunities to ensure young people can thrive into healthy and productive community members (e.g., mentoring, leadership development, tutoring, services for youth in foster care, etc.).
• Build the capacity of community vitality-focused organizations to integrate practices that improve upon the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts of the organization. This can take the form of internal capacity building or the creation/expansion of culturally relevant programming and services that seek to impact a broad and diverse audience. 

Environmental Sustainability

The future of our business, communities and planet depends on bold, collective action to reduce and slow the impacts of climate change while building a more sustainable economy for the next generation. Union Pacific is taking deliberate steps to reduce our environmental impact and helping our partners improve their own. Extending this commitment to our community investments, we seek to support leading environmental nonprofits and community-based organizations to advance the health of our environment. As such, we prioritize funding for projects and programs that seek to:

• Preserve and restore nature, including programs focused on natural habitats, ecosystems, and biodiversity.
• Protect and enhance water, soil and air quality through innovative and proactive solutions such as water conservation, carbon sequestration and emission reduction programs.
• Reduce waste through initiatives focused on promoting recycling and circularity throughout the community, including recycling and composting programs and other efforts that reduce waste.
• Develop environmental stewards through youth programs focused on fostering environmental appreciation, responsibility, and leadership.
• Advance a sustainable economy by helping communities accelerate their transition to environmental jobs and renewable energy, as well as helping nonprofits and small businesses build their own capacity to operate more sustainably.
• Promote environmental justice through initiatives that ensure access to clean air, water, and land and protect underserved populations from disproportionate and adverse environmental effects.
• Build the capacity of sustainability-focused organizations to integrate practices that improve upon the diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts of the organization. This can take the form of internal capacity building or the creation/expansion of culturally relevant programming and services that seek to impact a broad and diverse audience.

Community Partnership Award

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award recognizes outstanding nonprofit organizations in the United States that have shown exemplary leadership by facilitating partnerships with public, private or social sector leaders who are working together as equal partners, not as donors and recipients, to build a cohesive community that serves as a model for collaborating with others for the greater good.

Each year, the Mutual of America Foundation sponsors a national competition in which hundreds of organizations demonstrate the value of their partnership to the communities they serve, their ability to be replicated by others and their capacity to stimulate new approaches to addressing significant social issues.

Six organizations are selected by an independent committee to receive the Community Partnership Award.

• The Thomas J. Moran Award is given to the national award-winning program and includes $100,000 and a documentary video about the program.
• The Frances R. Hesselbein Award is given to a partnership that is addressing social challenges in more than one community, or which demonstrates the potential to be replicated in other communities. This recipient receives $75,000.
• Four other organizations are named Honorable Mention recipients for their programs, and each receives $50,000.

Since its inception in 1996, the Community Partnership Award has recognized 262 partnerships from cities and towns across America. Like so many of our clients working in the nonprofit community, Mutual of America is dedicated to having a direct, positive impact on society.

St. Croix Valley Foundation Grant

The mission of the St. Croix Valley Foundation is to enhance the quality of life in the St. Croix Valley Region by: 

• Encouraging charitable giving in the Valley
  • Building permanent funds that will provide resources for the needs of today and tomorrow
• Connecting people and programs
  • Bringing together people’s charitable interests and the funding needs of programs and organizations
• Encouraging collaboration
  • Forming partnerships and providing servant leadership through programs that enhance the quality of life in our region’s distinct communities

Music Education Grant

This grant program was made possible by a donor whose gift established an endowed fund specifically for music education. The donor, a former music teacher, wanted to give the gift of music to students, pre-school through high school. The goal of this grant program is to enhance the quality of music education programs in area schools.   

Criteria

Proposals are reviewed using the following criteria:

• The project activities are engaging.
• There is a clearly defined plan and timeline.
• The project goals are defined and realistic.
• The project will have an impact on the students, music program, school, and broader community.
• The budget is realistic, the project is financially feasible and budget details are provided.
• Bids and/or supporting documentation is included

Grant Range 

Grants can range from $500 to $5,000. Proposals may be awarded partial funding.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Vision

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation, "A Foundation for All", was established in 2002. It was begun in order to give a clear voice for those who wish to be a part of the many, worthy, forces for change in our world.

We are a foundation whose purpose is to look ahead towards the future, giving the past its due by remembering where we came from, and how much we can all accomplish together. We aim to make the critical difference on our planet by recognizing and having respect for our ever changing world. We respect all Life, the Environment, and all People, no matter who they are.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2027-2028 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Engineering program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Engineering course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Engineering courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Engineering courses for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Gateway - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Gateway unit in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional unit in the 2027-2028 academic year (two different units in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Gateway units of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Gateway program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Gateway unit not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Gateway unit previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in a PLTW Gateway unit for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Launch - New Program

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Launch module in the 2026-2027 academic year and must offer one additional module for the 2027-2027 academic year (two different modules in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Launch modules of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

Burns & McDonnell

Burns & McDonnell is a family of companies bringing together an unmatched team of 12,000 engineers, construction and craft professionals, architects, planners, technologists and scientists to design and build our critical infrastructure. With an integrated construction and design mindset, we offer full-service capabilities. Founded in 1898 and working from more than 75 offices globally, Burns & McDonnell is 100% employee-owned.

PLTW Launch - Program Expansion

Getting students excited about STEM is essential to building a brighter future for all of us. Showing students how STEM topics fit into the real world and real careers can give them the tools to embrace this vital message. Burns & McDonnell and its Foundation have partnered with PLTW to increase access and participation to PLTW programs for students located in Burns & McDonnell communities. PLTW programs empower students to develop and apply in-demand, transportable skills by exploring real-world challenges.

Through this partnership, Burns and McDonnell is supporting PLTW grants to schools interested in starting and expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2026-2027 academic year.

Program Requirements

Grantees must use these grant funds to expand their program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Launch module not previously offered, and/or offering existing PLTW Launch modules to more students, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Launch Classroom Teacher Training or PLTW Launch Lead Teacher Training for the 2026-2027 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.