Best Steele County Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Dr. Harvey Young Education & Development Foundation’s Young Guts Scholars Program supports undergraduate students from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. The program encourages students to pursue careers in science or medicine by offering a stipend, AGA membership, and travel funds for Digestive Disease Week®. Eligible applicants must have a mentor and commit to a minimum of 12 hours of research per week. This initiative aims to expand the pipeline of investigators in digestive disease research.

The AGA Abstract Award for Health Disparities Research provides a $500 travel grant for graduate students, medical students, residents, clinical fellows, and postdoctoral fellows who present research on health disparities at Digestive Disease Week® (DDW). This award aims to enhance interest in gastroenterology research and improve access to care for underserved populations. It recognizes outstanding abstracts accepted by AGA, fostering future careers in digestive disease research among young professionals.

The Aman Armaan Ahmed Family SURF for Success Program offers summer undergraduate research fellowships for students from underrepresented groups in biomedical research. Awardees engage in 10 weeks of research related to digestive diseases under expert mentorship, receiving a stipend of $6,200. This initiative aims to inspire students to pursue careers in science and medicine, enhancing diversity in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology.

The AGA Fellowship-to-Faculty Transition Award offers $65,000 per year for two years, totaling $130,000, to clinical and postdoctoral fellows. This funding is intended to support their transition to independent research careers focused on inflammatory bowel disease in gastroenterology. Applicants must hold an MD or equivalent, be in a fellowship position in North America, and demonstrate a commitment to clinical or translational research. AGA membership is required, and applicants should have a mentor who is also an AGA member.

The AANA Research Grants support clinical and basic science research in arthroscopic surgery, with a funding pool for 2024 reaching $350,000. One project may receive $50,000, while six others can be awarded $25,000 each. Applications are evaluated based on scientific validity, feasibility, clinical relevance, and completion ability. Special consideration is given to innovative surgical techniques and patient-reported outcomes. Travel expenses for study participants may also be considered during grant reviews.

The ACVO Vision for Animals Foundation provides research grants of up to $7,500 annually to residents in ABVO-approved veterinary ophthalmology programs. Funding covers research supplies, publication costs, and limited travel expenses. Eligibility requires mentorship by an ABVO-approved faculty member and Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee approval for animal-related experiments. Funded research results must be presented at the Annual ACVO Conference. Note that salaries and major equipment costs are not supported.

The FY 2023 Disaster Supplemental grant aims to support communities affected by major disasters, such as Hurricanes Ian and Fiona, by funding both construction and non-construction projects. This initiative focuses on long-term economic recovery strategies to address the challenges faced in areas with federal disaster declarations. Additionally, the Economic Development Administration has launched the Economic Development Grants Experience (EDGE) platform to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the grant management process.

The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

The NEI Institutional Mentored Physician Scientist Award (K12 Clinical Trial Optional) aims to foster innovative research career development for clinically trained vision scientists. This funding opportunity encourages institutions to develop programs that prepare scholars for independent research careers, particularly in minimal risk clinical trials. Emphasis is placed on recruiting underrepresented groups in research, ensuring a diverse pool of clinician investigators engaged in vision research.

The Lead and Healthy Homes Program - Swab Team Services Grant, offered by the Minnesota Department of Health, provides funding for swab team services to mitigate lead hazards for the 2026-27 biennium. Grant activities include education, blood lead testing, and practical interventions like soil replacement and dust removal. With a total funding of up to $958,000, the program aims to protect communities from lead exposure through effective interim controls.

The TruStage Foundation focuses on fostering economic mobility through education and housing initiatives. By supporting K-12 literacy, mentoring, and affordable housing projects, the foundation aims to uplift marginalized communities. With a commitment to addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, TruStage seeks to empower individuals and families to build a brighter future. Their funding is directed towards impactful programs that align with their mission, while avoiding causes that do not meet their criteria for economic mobility.

Vocational Rehabilitation Program Contract

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (“DEED”) Vocational Rehabilitation Services (“VRS”) requests applications from organizations and businesses to work as a vocational rehabilitation (“VR”) program community partner (“Community Partner”) to provide job-related services to individuals who are eligible for VRS. The State anticipates issuing multiple contracts for this work. 

The Felix E. Martin Jr. Foundation Community Leadership Fund provides essential support for leadership development in Muhlenberg County, KY. It aims to empower individuals and groups seeking innovative solutions to local challenges. Eligible applicants include those pursuing personal leadership growth or researching effective community strategies. The fund underscores inclusivity, welcoming diverse applicants without discrimination. This initiative fosters a vibrant community by equipping leaders with the resources needed to effect positive change.

The TFish Fund Grant aims to alleviate poverty in East Asia by empowering small but impactful NGOs to achieve sustainability and transparency. Founded in 2011, the Transparent Fish Fund partners with select organizations that focus on poverty alleviation. By providing financial aid, capacity building, and promoting accountability, the fund bridges the gap between Western donors and local NGOs, fostering a philanthropic spirit while addressing the complex social issues faced in the region.

This funding opportunity aims to support Early Stage Investigators (ESIs) in conducting preclinical HIV/AIDS research using Nonhuman Primate (NHP) models. Eligible applicants must have at least two years of postdoctoral experience and be within ten years of their terminal degree. The initiative aligns with the NIH Strategic Plan for HIV and HIV-Related Research, targeting the reduction of HIV incidence, development of therapies, and advancement in research areas related to HIV.

The Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF), promotes active research participation among undergraduate students across various research areas. It supports two mechanisms: REU Sites, which engage multiple students in ongoing research, and REU Supplements, which enhance existing NSF-funded projects. Participants must be U.S. citizens, nationals, or permanent residents, and each REU opportunity has its unique application process.

Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC) Trail Grants

RTC’s Trail Grants are building strong foundations in communities for equitable trail network development and activation—investing in transformative projects and programs that create more access to trails for more people across the country.  

Our grants support organizations at all levels—from local and national nonprofits to public agencies—with a focus on community-based leadership, engagement and long-term impact.  

Since 2008, RTC has provided over $3.7 million in grant funding to more than 280 organizations seeking to create, connect and maintain the nation’s trails, building vibrant trail networks that connect neighborhoods and regions, and make it possible for America to walk, bike and be active outside.

The Trail Accelerator Grants aim to enhance mountain bike trail communities by providing essential planning and design services. With funding between $10,000 to $30,000, these grants support local organizations in creating sustainable trail systems. The initiative encourages projects that increase access and promote community engagement, particularly focusing on diversity and inclusion. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to match funds, ensuring collaborative efforts to improve trail networks and experiences for all riders.

The Mathematical Sciences Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (MSPRF) aim to support emerging leaders in mathematics and statistics. These fellowships enhance participants' research environments, ensuring significant scientific development. Awardees can choose between a Research Fellowship or a Research Instructorship, with funding available for research across various mathematical and statistical disciplines. Proposals are submitted directly to the NSF, and fellows must affiliate with eligible institutions or organizations.

The Mathematical Sciences Research Institutes, supported by the National Science Foundation, serve as critical national resources aimed at advancing research in mathematics and statistics. These institutes facilitate the discovery and dissemination of knowledge while enhancing connections with related fields. Their activities attract top mathematical minds to tackle pressing problems and engage a diverse array of U.S.-based researchers, ultimately bolstering the impact of mathematical sciences across various disciplines.

The Founders Project Fulfillment Grant, offered by the Children's Theatre Foundation of America (CTFA), is dedicated to supporting 501(c)(3) IRS-certified theatres with a strong commitment to artistic excellence for young audiences. Eligible organizations must have a minimum operating budget of $1,000,000 and a proven track record of diversity in leadership, making this grant a vital resource for fostering inclusive theatre experiences for children and families.

The Ash Grove Charitable Foundation Grant supports public charities with 501(c)(3) status, focusing on capital projects that enhance community life in states where Ash Grove operates. With a commitment to environmental sustainability, education, and human services, the Foundation prioritizes funding for renovation and construction projects. Grants typically reach up to $25,000, aiming to foster better living standards and support local initiatives that are vital for community growth and resilience.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The FY 2027 Clean Water Fund (CWF) Projects and Practices Grants Request For Proposals (RFP) is now open, and includes two programs:

Projects and Practices, and

Projects and Practices Drinking Water. 

Grants Program

The Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Clean Water Fund Competitive Grants Program supports activities that restore, protect, and enhance water quality.

This RFP includes:

• Projects and Practices
  • This grant makes an investment in on-the-ground projects and practices that will protect or restore water quality in lakes, rivers or streams, or will protect groundwater or drinking water.
  • Examples include:
    • stormwater practices,
    • agricultural conservation practices,
    • feedlot related practices,
    • lakeshore and stream bank stabilization,
    • stream restoration, and
    • SSTS upgrades.
• Drinking Water
  • This grant makes an investment in land treatment projects and practices that will protect or improve drinking water sources.
  • Surface water (streams, rivers, and lakes) and groundwater (aquifers) can both serve as sources of drinking water.

The ABC-CLIO Leadership Grant supports AASL Chapters in developing leadership programs for school library associations at various levels. This grant encourages initiatives that engage new members, train current leaders, and foster collaboration among organizations. Successful applications clearly define program objectives, participant groups, and include well-structured budgets and evaluation plans. The grant aims to promote innovative leadership approaches that can be replicated by other chapters, enhancing the overall effectiveness of school libraries.

The Toor Scholarship for Strong Public-School Libraries, established by the Toor Family, honors the legacy of Jay and Ruth Toor, who advocated for state-certified librarians in every school. This scholarship supports U.S. public school librarians who create local marketing campaigns to promote their libraries as vital community resources. Each recipient receives a $1,000 stipend to attend the AASL National Conference and must present their project, contributing to the advancement of school librarianship.