Best Scott County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

QBE Foundation Inc.

The QBE Foundation’s focus is on creating strong, resilient and inclusive communities. We work in partnership with community organizations, working in climate resilience and inclusion – two areas where we believe we can have the greatest impact.

The QBE Foundation is one component that reflects our company’s focus, involvement, and investment in the neighborhoods where we do business, and where our employees live and work. The QBE Foundation also empowers our employees to volunteer with colleagues and community partners to make a difference for those in need. Employees can also coordinate fundraisers that are matched by the foundation.

QBE Foundation Local Grant Program

This program supports high-impact, community-based initiatives aligned to our focus on climate resilience and inclusion.

• Climate Resilience:
  • Helping communities prepare for, adapt to, and recover from climate-related risks, including preparedness, financial resilience, and risk reduction solutions.
• Inclusion:
  • Expanding access to opportunity for underserved communities through economic inclusion, workforce pathways, and removing systemic barriers.

Multiple grants of $30,000 will be awarded across our two focus areas.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program

The Headache & Migraine Competitive Grant Program stands at the forefront of advancing headache medicine by funding groundbreaking quality improvement initiatives. This highly competitive grant program, offered through the collaboration between the American Headache Society and Pfizer, supports projects that have the potential to reshape the field by creating widely applicable tools and driving measurable improvements in patient care. 

Migraine & Women's Health

Migraine is a prevalent and debilitating neurological disease that disproportionately affects women, impacting quality of life, productivity, and overall health. Recognizing the need for innovative solutions and enhanced care, Pfizer and the American Headache Society (AHS) are collaborating to offer a new grant opportunity inviting proposals for collaborative quality improvement and research projects focused on migraine and women's health.

American Headache Society

The American Headache Society (AHS) is a professional society of healthcare providers dedicated to the study and treatment of headache and face pain. The Mission of the AHS is to improve the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. AHS advocates for those impacted by headache and the headache field, to meet our core objectives. AHS provides educational courses, scientific meetings, a journal, research support, career development opportunities, Special Interest Groups, advocacy training, and a professional community. The AHS strives to meet its objectives while fostering an inclusive sense of belonging and community.

AHS Investigator-Initiated Research Awards

Empowering Innovation in Headache Research

The American Headache Society (AHS) Investigator-Initiated Research Awards support AHS members conducting pre-clinical and clinical research in headache and migraine. With a focus on early-career investigators, the program funds investigator-driven projects that advance scientific understanding and improve patient care.

Projects should contribute to the core goal of the AHS – improving the lives of people impacted by migraine and other headache disorders. Priority is given to early-stage investigators, fundamental research, and collaborative projects that bring established researchers from other disciplines into headache medicine, fostering innovation and new approaches in the field.

Funding may be used for:

• Investigator effort (limited to 25% of the budget for PI salary support).
• Experimental costs, data collection, supplies, and statistical analysis.
• Other research-related expenses as appropriately justifie

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

AHCJ International Health Study Fellowships

A fellowship for experienced journalists with a focus on international health.

In comparing the U.S. health care system to its global counterparts, journalists traveling to different countries as part of the AHCJ International Fellowship program can produce projects that provide valuable insights that can help inform policy decisions, improve health care outcomes and contribute to the ongoing evolution of health care systems worldwide.

Through the AHCJ International Health Study Fellowships, supported by The Commonwealth Fund, you can pursue a story or project comparing a facet of the U.S. health care system to that of another country. 

For 2027, the focus will be on the U.K. and France in comparison with the U.S. health care system. You’ll pursue the projects with the support of your newsrooms or arranged outlets, which commit to publish or air the work.

This fellowship allows highly experienced journalists to maintain their regular employment while working to evaluate a key component of the health care system, a health outcome, access, performance, providers, efficiency or other focal point over a six-month period.

That period allows for preparatory time, a site visit to the chosen European country, interviews and information gathering, as well as follow-up and writing time. Guidance is provided through seminars, conference calls and consultations with AHCJ fellowship leaders, a mentor and exposure to various topic experts.

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

AHCJ U.S. Health System Reporting Fellowship

This opportunity is for U.S.-based journalists.

Issues with the U.S. health care system are often obvious — from large swaths of uninsured residents and junk insurance plans, to high maternal mortality rates and preventable medical errors. But what is at the root of issues like these? What could an equitable health care system look like? 

Through the U.S. Health System Reporting Fellowship, supported by The Commonwealth Fund, you can pursue a significant reporting project related to the U.S. health care system at the local, regional and/or national level.

This fellowship allows mid-career journalists to maintain their regular employment while working on a major project over a 12-month calendar year. You’ll pursue the projects with the support of your newsrooms or arranged outlets, which commit to publish or air the work.

We believe that issues of health equity impact every facet of the health care system, which is why we’re specifically interested in projects focused on health equity. This might include racial disparities within a community, gaps in public health inclusion, unstable housing, insurance access, food insecurity, violence as a health issue, how health care institutions or systems are applying a racial equity lens to their policies and practices or otherwise addressing inequities or disparities, or other examinations of systemic problems that have become so apparent over the last few years.

Guidance is provided by AHCJ mentors through customized seminars on health care systems, conference calls and email consultations. The fellowship covers the cost of attending the seminars and the annual AHCJ conference, as well as a $2,500 project allowance to defray the cost of field reporting, health data analysis and other project-related research. In addition, you will receive a $5,000 fellowship award upon the successful completion of the project.

About

Building a community of journalists committed to better health care reporting.

We believe accurate, contextual and balanced health care reporting is more important than ever.

People depend on health care stories to make life-altering decisions every day.

Awards, Grants, & Fellowships

Ambitious freelancers who want to tackle an in-depth reporting project often find that the fee from a potential publisher doesn’t come close to covering their costs and time. Grants and fellowships can fill that gap, but freelancers have to know about them in order to apply. In this section, the Freelance Center is compiling a list of non-AHCJ grants, fellowships and awards (for when the hard work is done).

Sunshine Award

Presented by AHCJ’s Right-to-Know Committee

AHCJ’s Right-to-Know Committee established the Sunshine Award at Health Journalism 2026 as a way to elevate the work of journalists like STAT’s Bob Herman who fight for government transparency. We plan to continue this tradition annually from now on. Award winners receive free registration and a one-night hotel stay for our annual conference, a free year of AHCJ membership, a trophy and a certificate.

Helen Frankenthaler Foundation Inc

The Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports the artist’s legacy through a variety of initiatives, including exhibitions, loans of artworks, research and publications, conservation, grants, educational programs for the public and the scholarly community, and the publishing of a catalogue raisonné. It is dedicated to promoting greater public interest in and understanding of the visual arts.

Established and endowed by the artist during her lifetime (1928-2011), the Foundation became active in 2013, on the closing of Frankenthaler’s estate. As the principal beneficiary of Frankenthaler’s estate, the Foundation maintains an extensive collection of her work in a variety of mediums, as well as her collection of works by other artists and original papers and materials pertaining to her life and work.

Visual Arts & Education Grant

The Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports public engagement with the visual arts through philanthropic, educational, curatorial, and research initiatives. It has expanded its grantmaking to sustain museums and visual arts institutions, supporting exhibitions, scholarship, and education across the field. The Foundation’s grantmaking priorities are currently organized across three areas:

• Climate Action and Sustainability
• Cultural Resilience
• Visual Arts & Education
  • Project-based support for exhibitions, publications, public programs, and academic initiatives that advance the presentation, study, and interpretation of the visual arts.
  • The Foundation supports discrete, institutionally grounded projects that advance the presentation, study, and understanding of the visual arts. Competitive proposals typically include:
    • Exhibitions, publications, and public programs focused on modern and contemporary art
    • Projects that expand access to collections, archives, and curatorial research
    • Academic and institutional initiatives in art history, studio practice, visual studies, museum and curatorial studies, conservation, and related areas of scholarship and teaching—particularly those involving university museums, galleries, and special collections
    • Conferences, programs, or initiatives led by professional organizations whose missions address the visual arts
    • Exhibitions and scholarly or public programs related to the 2028 centennial of Helen Frankenthaler
    • Projects must be clearly defined in scope, duration, and outcomes, and supported by appropriate institutional capacity. Requests for Visual Arts & Education funds should not be framed as general operating support. 

The BJA FY 2026 Intellectual Property Enforcement Program aims to bolster public health, safety, and the economy by combating counterfeit goods and product piracy. This funding opportunity supports the formation or enhancement of law enforcement intellectual property enforcement task forces. It assists various jurisdictions in tackling intellectual property theft and related crimes, while also aiding in the investigation and prosecution of such offenses, thereby addressing the associated violent crime.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking to enhance the Strategies to Innovate EmeRgENcy Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN) through the establishment of a Clinical Coordinating Center (CCC) and Data Coordinating Center (DCC). This initiative aims to improve emergency care outcomes by supporting trials that focus on effective treatments for non-stroke neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being solicited, this notice allows potential applicants to prepare collaborative proposals.

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is inviting applications for the Alzheimer's Drug-Development Program (U01 Clinical Trial Optional). This initiative seeks to support pre-clinical and early-stage clinical development of innovative drug candidates aimed at preventing Alzheimer's disease or treating its symptoms. The program encourages collaboration among researchers and aims to enhance the therapeutic pipeline for AD through targeted approaches. This notice allows potential applicants time to prepare robust projects.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is dedicated to advancing emergency care through the Strategies to Innovate Emergency Care Clinical Trials Network (SIREN). This initiative seeks to establish clinical enrollment hubs that will enhance the network's ability to conduct trials aimed at improving outcomes for patients experiencing neurological and cardiovascular emergencies. Although applications are not currently being accepted, this notice encourages potential applicants to prepare collaborative and impactful proposals.

The Established Clinician Investigator Award to Support Mentoring (KS1) is designed to provide established clinician investigators with dedicated time for mentoring early-career clinician research scientists. This initiative by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH) aims to enhance the quality of mentorship, fostering the development of future leaders in clinical research. It supports a sustained commitment to training and guidance, ensuring a robust pipeline of skilled professionals.

The Mentored Career Transition Award (KT1/R00) offers a biphasic funding opportunity for up to 5 years, supporting the transition of postdoctoral researchers to independent faculty positions. The first phase provides 1-2 years of mentored career development, while the second phase grants up to 3 years of independent research support, contingent upon satisfactory progress and faculty appointment. This grant aims to enhance the capacity of early-career researchers in achieving research-intensive roles.

The Mentored Clinician Research Scientist Career Development Award (KC1) from the NIH supports clinician research scientists for up to five years, providing dedicated time for intensive research career development. This award aims to guide candidates with clinical doctoral degrees towards achieving research independence by pairing them with experienced mentors who can help navigate their career paths.

The Mentored Research Scientist Career Development Award (KR1) offers crucial support for researchers aiming for independence. Funded by the US Dept. of Health & Human Services through the NIH, this award allows candidates to engage in intensive research training under a mentor's guidance for up to five years. It is designed for those with research doctoral degrees, facilitating their transition into independent research roles and enhancing their contributions to the scientific community.

The Rural Health Network Development Planning Program aims to enhance rural health care by fostering integrated health care networks. It focuses on collaboration among entities to bolster local capacity and improve care coordination in underserved areas. By achieving efficiencies and expanding access to essential services, the program seeks to strengthen the overall rural health system while promoting the use of health information technology and exploring innovative care delivery models.

The Rural Health Network Development Program aims to enhance health care access in rural areas by supporting integrated health care networks. It offers two funding tracts: the Network Advancement Tract for established networks to overcome operational barriers and the Network Development Tract for early-stage networks to plan and expand services. Both tracts focus on improving care coordination, health outcomes, and operational efficiency, thereby strengthening the rural health care system.

The Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies Program (Rural MOMS) aims to enhance access to maternity and obstetrics care in rural areas through collaborative networks. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), this initiative focuses on innovative strategies to improve healthcare delivery for mothers and infants in underserved regions, ensuring that quality care is accessible where it is needed most.

The Radiation Exposure Screening and Education Program aims to support organizations in their efforts to screen and educate individuals who have been exposed to radiation from uranium mining and U.S. nuclear weapons testing. This initiative emphasizes the importance of awareness and education in mitigating health risks associated with radiation exposure, ensuring affected communities receive the necessary resources and support for health management.

About Lions Club International FoundationLions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) provides grants that empower the service of our members. Since its inception in 1968, LCIF has awarded more than US$1.3 billion in grant funding.  Mission :Our mission is to empower Lions clubs, volunteers and partners to improve health and wellbeing, strengthen communities, and support those in need through humanitarian service and grants that impact lives globally, and encourage peace and international understanding. And we fulfill it every day, everywhere we serve.Lions Club International Hunger Grant ProgramHunger Grants focus on strengthening infrastructure and providing essential equipment for Lions’ hunger-relief efforts. These grants empower Lions to support vital initiatives such as school feeding programs, food banks and feeding centers, ensuring that those in need receive the nourishment they require. These grants support infrastructure and equipment acquisition for Lions’ projects focused on alleviating hunger.Grant Examples: 

• Construction or expansion of food banks, feeding centers and food storage facilities.
• Purchase of refrigerators and freezers to store perishable food items.
• Vehicles to transport, collect and deliver food.

The BJS FY 2026 State Justice Statistics Program enhances the capabilities of Statistical Analysis Centers (SACs) to collect and analyze data that supports strategic criminal justice planning. This initiative is vital for federal, state, and local agencies and organizations as they develop policies related to crime and justice. Applications are due by September 29, 2026, at 8:59 PM ET, emphasizing the program's importance in fostering informed decision-making in criminal justice.

The Annual Recurring University Training and Research grant aims to foster the next generation of engineers and scientists by funding research and development at U.S. colleges and universities. This initiative focuses on supporting early-stage research and enhancing opportunities for underrepresented communities, ensuring that students gain essential skills for successful careers in the U.S. workforce and economy. It is a vital step toward inclusive educational advancement and workforce development.

The BJA FY 2026 Public Safety and Mental Health Initiative aims to enhance public safety by addressing untreated mental illness and substance use. This program supports coordinated intervention efforts across various agencies, improving access to treatment and reducing recidivism. By fostering comprehensive service networks, it seeks to restore order in communities affected by homelessness and mental health challenges, ultimately enhancing community well-being and trust in public spaces.

The Capacity Building for Global, Regional, and National Immunization Programs aims to enhance immunization efforts in key countries, focusing on the prevention and control of vaccine-preventable diseases like polio and measles. By strengthening immunization services and surveillance systems, the program will better address emerging health threats and reach under-immunized populations. Additionally, it will support sustainable practices through National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups and manage the National Stop Transmission of Polio program in Pakistan.

The CDC has announced funding for FY 2027 to enhance state capacity in alcohol epidemiology and prevent excessive alcohol use through the NOFO CDC-RFA-DP-27-0072. This initiative aims to equip states with essential tools and knowledge for effective public health measures against excessive alcohol use, a major preventable cause of death in the U.S. The program will also provide expert technical assistance and training on effective prevention strategies over a 5-year performance period.

The Rural Communities Opioid Response Program (RCORP) - Community Systems Development aims to enhance behavioral health systems in rural areas by providing funding for the development and expansion of services. This initiative supports the establishment of formalized networks to boost operational and clinical capacity, ensuring effective implementation of evidence-based substance use disorder prevention, treatment, and recovery services tailored to community needs.

Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation

The Foundation was established in September 1977 by Dr. Arnold O. and Mrs. Mabel Beckman to give back to the scientific community.

“The mission of the Foundation is to support leading edge research, in the fields of chemistry and life sciences, broadly interpreted, and particularly to foster the invention of methods, instruments, and materials that open up new avenues of research and application in these sciences and related disciplines. My preference is to favor young investigators, new ideas, and a variety of projects rather than fund large, established ones of long duration.”

Current Foundation Initiatives

Today, the Foundation continues according to the vision laid out by Dr. and Mrs. Beckman:

• Supporting Young Scientists: through our annual grant programs, focused on the most promising young scientists
• Community Support activities: that promote science education and excellence in our local community
• Streamlined operations: so that we don't "spend money to give money away"

"Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants

The Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation’s "Beckman Family" Awardee Community Support Grants are open to all current and former Foundation grant awardees and Executive Committee members, specifically from the Beckman Scholars Program, Arnold O. Beckman Postdoctoral Fellowship, Beckman Young Investigator, and Instrument Grants programs.

As a current or former Beckman awardee or Executive Committee member, if you are actively engaged as a volunteer or Board member in a youth STEM or STEAM organization in your local area, you may apply to this program for funding for a particular project with that organization.

Funding Priorities

Projects should be aligned with the Foundation’s aim of “supporting young scientists today for tomorrow’s breakthrough discoveries” and oriented toward achieving positive outcomes in at least one of the Foundation’s current funding priorities:

• Engaging youth in hands-on science and math activities to encourage curiosity and student-driven exploration and learning.
• Using technology to engage youth in STEM/STEAM.
• Promoting the Beckmans’ legacy of technology innovation and leadership amongst youth.

In addition, the following considerations should be addressed in a proposal for funding:

• Where possible, the Foundation’s contribution to a project or activity should help to build capacity within the nonprofit organization to continue the activity beyond the one-time grant.
• The Awardee/Executive Committee member should discuss how the program will increase access to STEM/STEAM opportunities for the target audience.
• The costs associated with the request should relate to a stand-alone STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity and not part of a broader program, event, or target audience outside the Awardee’s or Executive Committee member's local area.
• Youth registration to participate in the STEM/STEAM project, event, or activity should be open to all in the local area, when possible.

Process & Timeline

Grant funds are directly issued to the organization by the Foundation and include for acknowledgement an indication that the gift was made because their volunteer or Board member is a Beckman Awardee or Executive Committee member.

Requests must be submitted by the Beckman Awardee on behalf of a U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3), or equivalent, organization exclusively serving youth in their local community. As a matter of policy, the Foundation does not provide grants to non-U.S. organizations or institutions. This program defines the terms “youth” and “youths” as individual(s) 17 years of age or younger.