Best St. Cloud Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Initiative Foundation offers Nonprofit Capacity Building Grants to support organizations in Central Minnesota. These grants aim to strengthen local nonprofits, schools, and government units, with funding typically not exceeding $10,000. The grants focus on enhancing local economies, fostering community engagement, and promoting generosity. Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis, with deadlines on April 1 and October 10, 2025. The program emphasizes geographic equity and aims to empower organizations that provide essential services.

The Central Minnesota Special Needs Grant provides funding between $5,000 and $10,000 to support services, equipment, and projects for individuals with complex intellectual and physical disabilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving Benton, Stearns, and Sherburne counties, as well as specific communities. The grant prioritizes initiatives that foster diversity, equity, and inclusion while excluding general operating costs and capital campaigns.

The AGRI Urban Agriculture Grant Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, promotes urban youth agricultural education and community development in urban areas. With a total funding of $1.87 million available this fiscal year, grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 can help organizations obtain necessary resources. Eligible projects must support urban agriculture initiatives and can be located in cities with populations over 5,000 or on tribal lands, fostering resilience in local agricultural economies.

The Central Minnesota Arts Grant supports small to medium-sized arts organizations in Central Minnesota, aiming to enhance accessibility to the arts for local residents. Offered in even years, this grant prioritizes initiatives that foster artistic appreciation, education, and engagement in visual and performing arts. The grant is open to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities, with a focus on building community connections and inspiring philanthropy across generations.

The Central Minnesota "Difference Maker" Grants aim to foster significant advancements in racial equity across the region. Funded by the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, these grants, ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, support eligible nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving Benton, Stearns, and Sherburne Counties. The initiative encourages collaborative projects addressing racial disparities and community engagement, promoting sustainable impacts and additional investments.

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

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

The Bernick's Beverages and Vending Fund Grants aim to support organizations that align with the Bernick family's values, offering up to $150,000 in funding for 8-10 eligible groups. Focus areas include youth education and fitness initiatives, with grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities within Bernick's operational regions. The foundation seeks innovative programs that foster community engagement and promote healthy lifestyles.

The SpartanNash Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on Hunger, Heroes, and Hope. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located within a 30-mile radius of SpartanNash facilities. The Foundation ensures that every dollar raised directly benefits partner organizations, with a commitment to community impact. Grants are not available for ineligible entities, including those outside the radius or not aligned with the Foundation's mission. Since its inception in 2015, the Foundation has positively influenced local communities.

The CMCF: Rural Poverty Fund Grants, offered by the Central Minnesota Community Foundation and the Initiative Foundation every even year, aim to address rural poverty through various initiatives. Grants support projects that establish emergency services, assess community needs, and develop action plans. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving 14 counties in Central Minnesota, focusing on those in poverty while promoting diversity and inclusion.

The Agriculture Education Grant, funded by Compeer Financial, aims to enhance high school agriculture programs by providing up to $4,000 for classroom equipment and educational initiatives. This grant promotes hands-on learning and modern technologies, ensuring students are well-equipped to explore the evolving agricultural landscape. Eligible applicants include high school agriculture departments within a specified 144-county territory, with a focus on schools that have not received funding in the past two years.

The Emergency Response Equipment Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to bolster rural communities by providing funding for essential emergency response equipment for volunteer fire, rescue, and ambulance departments. With grants up to $4,000, this initiative ensures that first responders have the necessary tools to protect and serve their communities effectively. Eligibility is limited to rural departments in the 144-county territory, ensuring that help reaches those who need it most.

The Farmers Market Grant Program by Compeer Financial aims to support organizations enhancing services at farmers markets. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for marketing efforts, technology upgrades, and vendor education. Eligible applicants must be bona fide farmers markets with at least three vendors of locally-produced products and must operate in the designated 144-county area. Priority is given to markets that have not previously received funding.

The Morgan Family Foundation offers Social Equity Grants to support innovative initiatives and projects that promote social equity in St. Cloud, Minnesota. Grants are primarily awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and may also support advocacy efforts and capacity building. The Foundation focuses on reducing disparities faced by marginalized communities, fostering collaboration, and enhancing community leadership, all while adhering to its mission of ensuring equitable outcomes for all individuals.

The Arts Organization Development Grant offers up to $10,000 for nonprofit arts organizations in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties. This funding supports activities that enhance organizational sustainability, growth, and improve access to the arts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and arts groups seeking nonprofit status. The grant promotes a vibrant arts community, ensuring diverse artistic expression and fostering collaboration while enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.

Minnesota Department of Agriculture

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has served our state for more than 125 years. The work we do touches every Minnesota citizen every day.

Our mission is to enhance all Minnesotans’ quality of life by equitably ensuring the integrity of our food supply, the health of our environment, and the strength and resilience of our agricultural economy.

Our three general areas of responsibility include:

• Protecting our food supply;
• Protecting our natural resources; and,
• Cultivating our agricultural economy.

Biofertilizer Innovation and Efficiency Pilot Program

The Biofertilizer Innovation and Efficiency Pilot Program provides incentive payments to farmers for reducing the application rate of commercial nitrogen fertilizer when using a qualifying biofertilizer product and incorporating innovative technologies into their crop nutrient management. The program is available for the 2026 and 2027 growing seasons. 

The program is open for all agricultural crops that have a recommended nitrogen fertilizer rate published by the University of Minnesota. Recommended rates can be found by crop, Crop-specific nutrient needs | University of Minnesota. 

Payment Rate and Crops

Farmers meeting program requirements will receive a payment of $15 per acre.

The maximum amount of land each farm entity can enroll is up to 3,000 acres. The MDA reserves the right to limit the number of acres enrolled per applicant based on the number of applications received.

Qualifying Biofertilizer Products

The biofertilizer product(s) used is at the discretion of the farmer when the following requirements are met:

• The product must be registered as a specialty fertilizer, soil or plant amendment, or licensed as a fertilizer with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and
• The product label must specify that the product provides a source of nitrogen or nutrients supplied by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi.

Visit the Registered Product Search to find products holding a current registration in Minnesota.

The intent of the program is to improve nitrogen management and incorporate innovative technologies, so compost or a continued use of legume inoculants will not be eligible under the program. 

The Edina Realty Foundation, established in 1996, is dedicated to improving the lives of homeless individuals and families in Minnesota and western Wisconsin. With over $12 million raised, the Foundation supports non-profits that provide housing, food, and emergency services, ensuring that more than 95% of funds directly aid those in need. Their mission highlights the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home, reinforcing community investment for a better tomorrow.

The Medica Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing rural health in Minnesota by funding community-led initiatives that address health equity. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, it supports projects that improve healthcare access and quality, particularly in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, government agencies, and Tribal Nations, while emphasizing measurable outcomes and culturally-focused care.

The Initiative Foundation's Emerging Needs Grants offer vital support to nonprofits in Central Minnesota facing unexpected challenges. These grants enable organizations to stabilize and adapt, ensuring they continue to meet pressing community needs. With a focus on immediate impact, the funding is available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in the region, allowing them to address service gaps and enhance their operations during crises.

The Thomas Ritsche Youth Grants, administered by the Central Minnesota Community Foundation, aims to support youth-related programs that promote safety and reduce crime among youth. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits, schools, and government entities within Stearns, Benton, and Sherburne Counties. The grants prioritize initiatives that foster community engagement and sustainable positive impacts on youth, while not funding individual projects, religious organizations, or political campaigns.

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.

The Central Minnesota Boys and Men Grants, offered by CommunityGiving, aim to empower boys and men through initiatives addressing educational disparities, mental health, and career development. This grant supports both new and existing programs that foster an equitable environment. Eligible organizations include nonprofit entities and schools, with a preference for those operating with annual budgets under $500,000. Notably, the grant does not fund individuals or religious purposes, ensuring a focused community impact.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The Central Minnesota Arts Board (CMAB) offers the Arts Access Grant to enhance access to arts for underserved audiences in Region 7W. Grants up to $5,000 support cultural community groups and nonprofit organizations engaging BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, seniors, veterans, and low-income individuals. Established in 1979, CMAB promotes the vital social and economic roles of the arts through funding and professional development services.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Initiative Foundation offers Economic Development, Workforce Grants to support projects that drive economic growth in Central Minnesota. These grants focus on early-stage initiatives that enhance workforce development, create partnerships for apprenticeships, and encourage affordable housing. Eligible applicants include local governments and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving specific counties and tribal nations. The Foundation prioritizes innovative strategies that attract and retain workers, fostering a thriving economy and vibrant communities.

The CMAB Public Art Grant Program supports the creation of impactful public art projects that are accessible to everyone at no cost. It encourages artists to engage with the community, fostering cultural identity and artistic growth. Applicants must secure at least 25% matching funds, with no cap on funding requests, although resources are limited. This initiative aims to enrich regional culture and enhance public spaces through both permanent and temporary art installations.