Best Stearns County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

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 Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

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 Initiative Foundation's Joy & Connection Grants aim to enhance community spirit and connections in Central Minnesota. With $100,000 available, grants between $1,000 and $7,500 will support projects that foster belonging, promote healing, and inspire purpose. A randomized selection process will invite 25 eligible organizations to apply, encouraging collaboration to create joyful moments and strengthen community ties. This initiative continues the Foundation's commitment to empowering local entities for a thriving, inclusive environment.

The Initiative Foundation is offering Energy Efficiency and Community Resiliency Planning Grants to support local governments, school districts, Tribal nations, and nonprofits in Central Minnesota. Grants up to $15,000 will help advance clean energy adoption and improve infrastructure resilience, preparing communities for future energy challenges. These initiatives aim to foster economic growth and enhance community engagement, empowering residents to build a sustainable and vibrant future.

The CMAB Artist in Residence Grant offers up to $3,500 to support artistic activities in schools and nonprofits, enhancing student learning through collaboration with resident artists. Ideal for organizations in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties, it promotes arts education and community engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities. The program aims to foster creativity and professional development, ensuring a diverse range of artistic experiences for participants.

The Central Minnesota Arts Board (CMAB) offers the Projects, Events and Festivals Grant Program, providing up to $8,000 in funding to nonprofit organizations, schools, local governments, and community groups. Established in 1979, CMAB enhances access to the arts across Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties. This initiative aims to reduce barriers to the arts, foster cultural connections, and promote public engagement through arts-focused events and festivals.

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 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 Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

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.

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 Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The CMAB Community Arts Support Grant Program, managed by the Central Minnesota Arts Board, provides vital funding to enhance arts access in Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, and Wright counties. Established in 1979, this program supports nonprofit arts organizations with grants ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 for operations, administration, and outreach initiatives. Through these funds, CMAB aims to foster community engagement and appreciation for the arts, especially among underserved populations.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

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 True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

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.