Best Grants for Education Nonprofits in Minnesota

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Ralph K. Morris Foundation offers Cooperative Leadership Sponsorships to support training and professional development for emerging leaders, especially from rural areas. The program adapts to changing needs by providing financial assistance for cooperative education events and scholarships. Priority is given to organizations in Minnesota and Wisconsin, encouraging a collaborative approach to leadership development in communities. This initiative aims to foster the future of cooperatives through accessible education and training opportunities.

The Cleveland-Cliffs Foundation, established in 1962, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities, environmental protection, and community health in the regions it operates. As a leading steel manufacturer, Cleveland-Cliffs is committed to sustainability and responsible corporate citizenship. The foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations that address key challenges in education, the environment, and community well-being, ensuring impactful investments that help communities thrive across North America.

The Education Support Professional of the Year award recognizes outstanding contributions by education support professionals in Minnesota. Annually, Education Minnesota honors an individual who exemplifies dedication and excellence in their role. Nominations for the 2025-26 award are now open, inviting submissions from colleagues and community members. The recipient will receive a $1,200 honorarium, a choice of technology, and an expense-paid trip to a national conference, celebrating their impactful work within the educational community.

The Education Minnesota Human Rights Award honors members who have championed human and civil rights within educational settings. This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to equality and inclusivity, whether through direct action, advocacy, or educational initiatives. By nominating deserving members, you help celebrate their commitment to fostering a supportive and equitable environment for all students and educators. Nominations are accepted annually, with a deadline in January.

The Peterson-Schaubach Outstanding Leadership Award recognizes exceptional contributions from Education Minnesota leaders who embody the organization's principles. This prestigious award is open for nominations annually, highlighting individuals who have significantly impacted public education through active membership and leadership. The nomination process is initiated by the Education Minnesota President, with timelines announced to the Governing Board. This award reflects the commitment to members, the profession, and the values of education and social justice.

The Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award honors outstanding educators who inspire students and elevate the teaching profession. Nominations for 2026 are now open, inviting communities to recognize exceptional teachers who embody dedication and excellence. The award will be presented on May 3, 2026, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. This prestigious recognition not only celebrates local talent but also positions the winner as Minnesota’s representative for the National Teacher of the Year.

The We Are One Solidarity Award, presented by Education Minnesota, recognizes local unions or active members demonstrating significant leadership in various areas such as organizing campaigns and advocating for workers' rights. This annual award highlights the importance of collaboration among union members and aims to strengthen relationships across unions. Nominations can be submitted by any Education Minnesota member, emphasizing the value of collective effort in supporting public education.

The National Board Certified Teachers Scholarship, funded by the Education Minnesota Foundation, aims to support K-12 educators pursuing National Board Certification. Each year, eligible Education Minnesota members can receive scholarships up to $1,000 to cover assessment fees. This initiative particularly encourages first-time applicants while also allowing those maintaining certification to apply. Scholarships are awarded annually, and recipients must provide proof of payment for the certification process to access their funds.

The MAGS Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes graduate students at the University of Minnesota who demonstrate exceptional teaching and mentoring skills. One award is designated for a doctoral student and another for a master’s student, highlighting the significance of teaching excellence in graduate education. Eligible candidates must hold a teaching appointment during the 2025 calendar year. This prestigious award aims to prepare graduate students for future roles as educators in higher education.

The Archie D & Bertha H Walker Foundation supports nonprofits addressing systemic racism and promoting arts. Established in 1953, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare by funding organizations that dismantle barriers to equity and foster artistic expression. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status and operate within specified counties in the Minnesota Twin Cities area. The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals, focusing instead on impactful community engagement.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The Classroom-Focused Project Grants support licensed educators in enhancing their teaching practices and student outcomes, with funding up to $3,000 for innovative projects. This opportunity is designed for both first-time applicants and previous recipients looking to build on their past successes. Eligible applicants must be active members of Education Minnesota and demonstrate a commitment to equity and inclusion in their projects. Grants are awarded annually, emphasizing measurable results and collaborative efforts.

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Impact Grant promotes innovative practices focused on equity and inclusion in education. By supporting educators and collaborative projects with local nonprofits and unions, the Foundation aims to drive long-lasting change in teaching and learning policies. Grants are awarded annually for theme-based projects, with funding for the second year contingent upon demonstrated progress. This initiative empowers active Education Minnesota members to create impactful educational experiences for students.

The Education Minnesota Foundation's Professional Development Grant supports licensed educators, education support professionals, and higher education faculty in enhancing their skills in equity and inclusion practices. Grants are available for individual members and groups, with funding of up to $2,000 per person for ESPs and teachers, and $3,000 for higher education faculty. Applicants must be active, dues-paying members of Education Minnesota, and the program emphasizes sharing new skills with colleagues.

The Rural Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to foster collaboration among rural communities in areas like economic development and education. Emphasizing community involvement, it encourages diverse participation and measurable outcomes within 18 months. Grants of up to $25,000 for implementation or $5,000 for planning are available, targeting nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states. This initiative seeks to empower communities to achieve positive change through active engagement and support.

The Evelyn Lenander Education Scholarship, established in 1989, supports college students majoring in elementary education at Minnesota institutions. Funded by CommunityGiving, the scholarship honors Evelyn Lenander, a dedicated teacher who believed in nurturing future educators. Applicants must be Minnesota residents, enrolled in their 3rd or 4th year of college, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This initiative aims to empower local communities by investing in the next generation of educators.

The Russell Family Foundation Grant, established in 2007 in Duluth, Minnesota, supports charitable causes in the areas of arts, education, environment, health, human services, public benefit, and religion. This private foundation awards grants exclusively to organizations that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, with a focus on those primarily located in Duluth. Their mission emphasizes fostering community welfare through diverse initiatives.

The W R Berkley Corporation Charitable Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) organizations in Central Iowa, SW Minnesota, and Eastern Nebraska. With a focus on health, community betterment, youth development, education, and food insecurity, grants are awarded twice a year. There are no limitations on request sizes, but only one grant per organization is accepted annually. Funding decisions prioritize organizations with a proven track record of efficiency and success in serving their communities.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illi

Library Education Scholarship Fund

The Library Education Scholarship Fund awards scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing library sciences, writing, education – preference for language arts, or information technology.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

The McDaniel Scholarship at Adams State University aims to provide full-tuition scholarships to students in junior standing or above, including post-graduate and graduate students. Established by Dr. John E. McDaniel, this scholarship honors past students while supporting the educational aspirations of future scholars. As part of Colorado's premier Hispanic-Serving Institution, this initiative reflects the university’s commitment to equitable access to education and empowering historically underserved populations.

Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley is a collection of individual funds and resources given by local citizens to enhance and support the quality of life in the Fox River Valley of Illinois.

We are a tax-exempt public charity that allows individuals, businesses, and non-profit organizations to establish permanent endowments and temporary funds within the confines of one large foundation.

Foundation funds are used to provide grants to non-profit organizations and scholarships to area students. The Foundation also hosts a Youth Engagement in Philanthropy (YEP) program, which helps high school students learn more about philanthropy and empowers them to make a difference in the community.

The Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley serves the City of Aurora, Kane County, and Kendall County within the State of Illinois.

Helen Schlicht McGeachy & Arthur C. Schlicht Scholarship Endowment Fund

This fund provides scholarships to students graduating from Aurora Central, Aurora Christian, East Aurora, Marmion Academy, Rosary or West Aurora High School.

Students entering the field of education, engineering, science, medicine or nursing are eligible to apply for these awards.

This fund was established by Arthur C. Schlicht (1936-2020) in memory of his mother Helen Schlicht McGeachy.

Helen McGeachy (1910-1994) was a graduate of East Aurora High School. An outstanding typist and secretary, she ultimately became secretary to the presidents of CA&E Railway and Walker Process Equipment of Aurora. Arthur Schlicht was vice-president/national sales manager at Walker Process Equipment. He earned a degree in chemical engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

This fund was created in 1994 and established as an endowment in 1995.

The monetary value of each scholarship award varies depending upon the amount available in each individual scholarship fund. The most common scholarship award amount is $1,000 for a single year. Scholarships are designated as non-renewable one-year awards or renewable multi-year awards depending upon the scholarship fund criteria, as established by the donor of the scholarship fund.

The Como Charitable Foundation Grants support various programs in human services and education, prioritizing organizations with proven community service records. Funding is available for projects that demonstrate genuine need and a solid fundraising plan. While operating support is a lower priority, proposals are reviewed year-round. The Foundation particularly favors projects benefiting Franklin Parish and surrounding areas, with a focus on capital projects and human resource improvements that promise broad public benefits.

The Gianforte Family Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Montana that empower individuals and families to achieve sustainable improvements in their lives. With a focus on education, family strengthening, and relationship restoration, the foundation encourages projects that directly benefit Montanans. Since its inception in 2004, it has contributed over $130 million to various initiatives. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and reapply annually, as the foundation does not automatically renew grants.

The Carol Aulabaugh Excellence in Education Fund, established by Carol Aulabaugh, is dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for the Parkview School District in Orfordville, Wisconsin. This endowment fund supports grants ranging from $500 to $1,500 for innovative educational programming not covered by tax dollars. Donations are welcomed year-round and are tax-deductible, making it a meaningful way to invest in the future of education for local students.

The Dr. Doris R. Corbett-Johnson Leaders for Our Future Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors young professionals under 36 who exhibit exceptional promise in scholarship, teaching, and leadership. This prestigious award is available in two categories: college/university and non-college/university, with a maximum of two recipients per category each year. By recognizing emerging leaders, SHAPE America aims to inspire a new generation dedicated to advancing health and physical education.

The GoodRx Helps Community Catalyst Grants support community-led nonprofits dedicated to enhancing health and well-being for under-resourced groups. This funding aims to improve healthcare access, education, and essential services, addressing systemic barriers faced by these communities. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to community empowerment and possess a minimum annual operating budget of $250K. This initiative underscores the importance of fostering sustainable health improvements through targeted, inclusive support.