Best Ramsey County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The MRAC: Next Step Fund Grant, supported by the McKnight Foundation, offers project grants of up to $6,000 for artists across all disciplines. This initiative aims to assist artists in overcoming barriers to success, sustaining their artistic careers, and seizing future opportunities. Open to applicants at any career stage, projects should reflect individual goals and career stages, fostering both advancement and maintenance of creative practice.

The North Star Black Cooperative Fellowship aims to empower Black-led cooperatives by reconnecting them with their historical roots in cooperative economics. This seven-month program encourages participants to reclaim the legacy of Black economic cooperation, offering training in governance, conflict resolution, and cooperative skills. With a focus on community building and collective care, the fellowship includes stipends and support for creating cooperative economic projects, fostering a vision of self-governance and shared prosperity among Black communities.

The Ecolab Community Giving Program, supported by the Ecolab Foundation, matches employee donations to eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits up to $1,000 annually. This initiative promotes community engagement and supports various focus areas, including youth education, civic development, environmental conservation, and arts. With over $174 million contributed since 1980, Ecolab demonstrates its commitment to enhancing the communities where its employees live and work through impactful philanthropic efforts.

The Community-Built Playspace Grants, funded by KaBOOM!, aim to empower communities to create kid-designed playspaces that foster health and well-being. These grants address inequities in access to safe play areas, particularly in communities of color, ensuring that all children can benefit from spaces that promote social, emotional, and physical development. By supporting the construction of these playspaces, KaBOOM! works to enhance resilience and learning opportunities for children, transforming neighborhoods into vibrant, engaging environments.

The Best Buy Teen Tech Center is offering a Mini Tech Skills Workshop Grant to support local and national non-profits in providing STEAM skills workshops for youth aged 13-19. These workshops, which include topics such as coding, filmmaking, and robotics, aim to enhance technical skills and career exploration. Funding can reach up to $24,999, with a focus on hands-on, facilitator-led experiences, and additional programming opportunities may be considered.

The Allianz Life Insurance Company's Financial Stability Grant aims to reduce barriers to economic inclusion by supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance financial stability for low- to moderate-income families. With grants ranging from $50,000 to $75,000, this program prioritizes groups that serve diverse communities, promote equity, and collaborate with local organizations. By focusing on basic needs such as food, shelter, and affordable housing, Allianz is committed to fostering sustainable economic independence within the Twin Cities metro area.

The Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America offers the Financial Sustainability Grant to support nonprofit organizations that promote economic inclusion and financial stability. Grants range from $50,000 to $75,000 for one-year commitments, focusing on workforce success through education, job training, and entrepreneurial support. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS 501(c)(3) and primarily serve low- to moderate-income families in the Twin Cities metro area.

The MRAC Emergency Relief Grant offers $500 to artists in the Twin Cities metro area facing unexpected financial hardships due to personal emergencies or natural disasters. This initiative by the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council aims to enhance arts access by supporting individuals actively engaged in creative practices. Eligibility requires applicants to be at least 18 years old and residing in one of the seven metro counties for a minimum of six months prior to application.

Livable Communities - Policy & Affordable Housing Program Development Grants

he Council awards grants to cities, counties and their development authorities through the Livability Communities program. These grants, funded by property taxes and the Council's general fund, help clean up polluted sites for redevelopment, expand affordable housing opportunities and build pedestrian-friendly and transit-oriented developments.

The program is a voluntary, incentive-based approach to help communities grow and redevelop, and to address the region’s affordable and lifecycle housing needs. The program was established in 1995 by the state Livable Communities Act (LCA).

Up to $639,000 is available to policy and affordable housing program development projects in 2026.

Livable Communities - Development Projects Grants

Livable Communities development grants primarily support projects that plan to build new, rehabilitate, or preserve affordable housing (rental and ownership) and community-driven commercial spaces. Development grants support projects at all stages of development including:

• Pre-development
• Acquisition
• Environmental site investigation and cleanup
• Site preparation
• Construction or rehabilitation.

$26.9 million is available for development projects in 2026. Funding will be designated to the following outcomes:

• Early Stage Development: Environmental Site Investigation $500,000
• Early Stage Development: Pre-Development $1,500,000
• Construction Stage Development: Environmental Cleanup $5,500,000
• Construction Stage Development: Homeownership $3,500,000
• Construction Stage Development: Rental, Mixed-Use, Commercial $12,400,000
• Construction Stage Development: Multi-Family Rental Housing funded through the Minnesota Housing Consolidated Request for Proposals $3,500,000

The Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, offers competitive grants ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 for projects that restore, protect, or enhance vital habitats like prairies and wetlands. Applicants must provide a 10% match of non-state funds and the total project cost cannot exceed $1,000,000. Focused on habitat benefits, the program emphasizes conservation easements and public ownership for funded projects.

About Us

Our Mission

The Saint Anthony Park Community Foundation supports charitable and community activities serving the needs of the Saint Anthony Park community, which includes Saint Paul's District 12 boundaries, the University Grove area, 1666 Coffman, the St. Paul Campus of the University of Minnesota, and the Fulham block of Lauderdale. 

Our mission is to nurture the unique community assets of Saint Anthony Park to secure a strong and vibrant neighborhood for future generations. We provide grants to support the development of the following community assets: Education, Arts and Humanities, Children and the Elderly, and the Preservation and Development of our Physical Assets.

Community Grants

Our grants support our ongoing commitment to improving the environment, strengthening learning opportunities, enhancing livability and aging-in place resources, stimulating business vitality, and appreciation of the arts and music. 

In supporting these aspects of our local society, the SAP Community Foundation looks forward to partnering with your organization to make Saint Anthony Park a more resilient and healthy community. 

The Hypertherm HOPE Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations with a mission to create sustainable, positive change in communities. Established in 2010, the foundation prioritizes projects in areas like disaster relief, education, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation's values of respect and inclusivity. Grant decisions are made by HOPE teams composed of Hypertherm Associates across various regions, ensuring local needs are met effectively.

The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to enhance community quality of life across 28 states, focusing on educational, cultural, and social service initiatives. With over $150 million contributed since 2000, the foundation emphasizes projects with strong local engagement and BNSF employee involvement. Eligible organizations include public charities, local governments, and tribal governments, while ineligible entities encompass religious organizations and those with discriminatory practices. Priority is given to environmental, health, and cultural projects.

The Walter C. Rasmussen-Northeast Bank Foundation honors the legacy of its founder by supporting initiatives in education, housing, culture, environment, and health. With a focus on community-building, the foundation aims to empower the economically disadvantaged, particularly children and families, through self-sufficiency programs. It prioritizes effective strategies that address local needs in Hennepin, Ramsey, and Anoka counties, ensuring a lasting impact on the community's well-being and development.

The Roseville Area Community Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life for residents in the Roseville area through strategic investments. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships with local leadership, nonprofits, and schools, emphasizing the importance of community collaboration and integrity. Eligible applicants are qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, while government agencies are not eligible for funding. This initiative reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability in grantmaking.

The Immigrant & Refugee Grant Program by Marbrook Foundation aims to empower and educate immigrants and refugees in the Twin Cities. It focuses on initiatives that foster intercultural learning, create safe learning environments for youth, and promote financial independence. The foundation supports programs that blend cultures and address the challenges faced by new immigrants and refugees, ultimately contributing to community well-being. Applications are accepted for various types of grants, with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment.

The Minnesota Racial Equity Fund Grant aims to foster lasting change by supporting organizations in the Twin Cities that address historic systemic racism affecting communities of color. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, focusing on employment, education, and community safety. Only tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations in Hennepin and Ramsey counties are eligible. This initiative is part of H.B. Fuller Company Foundation's commitment to racial equity and community empowerment.

The County Fair Facility Upgrade Grant Program aims to support rural communities within Compeer Financial’s territory by providing funding for upgrades and repairs to county fair facilities. Eligible organizations can receive up to $4,000 to enhance livestock buildings, 4-H buildings, and judging arenas. This initiative not only improves facilities but also fosters community engagement and agricultural education, ensuring that fairs continue to thrive in delivering memorable experiences for all ages.

The John Mondati Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations that promote holistic and alternative medicine, empowering patients in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota. Established in 2007 by John Mondati, the foundation has awarded over $920,000 to various health programs. It emphasizes an integrated approach to healing, fostering public education on alternative health options. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations committed to enhancing wellness through innovative health practices.

Ramsey County Violence Prevention Grant

Ramsey County, in partnership with Youthprise, seeks to expand access to culturally responsive and community-based supports for youth and young adults through a violence prevention grantmaking process. This request for proposal will fund small programmatic grants to community-based organizations delivering services that promote healing, stability, academic success, and long-term wellbeing for youth and young adults. Priority will be given to projects that serve participants who are system-impacted, marginalized, or disproportionately affected by inequities. Priority services identified by Ramsey County include mentoring and relationship-based supports, school-based and education aligned supports, licensed alcohol and drug counseling, and holistic healing and mindfulness practices. Funded projects will operate for a minimum of six months and a maximum of fifteen months and will serve youth and young people in Ramsey County or involved in Ramsey County systems.

Funding Available:

• $236,250

Number of Awards:

• 8 to 10 awards anticipated ranging from $15,000 to $25,000

Grant Term:

•  6 to 14 months, services must be concluded on or before August 1st, 2027

Funding Use:

• Programmatic services to include direct service delivery, staff time, materials, facilitation, program-related costs, and administrative costs

Grant funds may be used for:

• Program staff or facilitator stipends/salaries
• Direct service delivery costs
• Supplies, curriculum, and materials
• Space rental for program activities
• Participant supports (e.g., food, transportation, incentives)
• Program-related administrative costs

The Stevens Square Foundation Grant focuses on supporting programs for financially vulnerable seniors in the Twin Cities metro area. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $30,000 and are available for existing programs that help seniors remain in their homes, as well as new initiatives aimed at improving the lives of older adults. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and prioritize underserved groups, demonstrating collaboration and community resource utilization.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Mortenson Family Foundation is dedicated to expanding opportunities for children and families living in poverty by promoting equitable access to education, social development, and mental health resources. By partnering with nonprofit organizations and public schools, the foundation aims to empower communities through culturally relevant learning practices and strong engagement with families. Their focus on racial equity and sustained support for children from prenatal to 18 years ensures a holistic approach to overcoming the barriers faced by underserved populations.

The Metropolitan Council is the regional planning organization for the seven-county Twin Cities area. The Met Council operates the regional bus and rail system, collects and treats wastewater, coordinates regional water resources, plans and helps fund regional parks, and administers federal funds that provide housing opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. The 17-member Council board is appointed by and serves at the pleasure of the governor. 

Livable Communities Small Area Planning Grants

Livable Communities small area planning grants support cities in establishing conditions for dense, connected, and equitable development in alignment with Imagine 2050 goals.

The Aegon Transamerica Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations focused on enhancing financial and social empowerment in communities where Transamerica employees live and work. Established in 2000, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster self-reliance, financial literacy, and community engagement. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) non-profits operating in specific locations such as Atlanta, GA and Denver, CO. The foundation does not fund individuals or certain types of organizations, aiming to create inclusive, resilient communities.