Minnesota Income Security and Social Services Grants

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is currently accepting applications for its Metro Grant Cycle, focusing on the enhancement, restoration, or protection of natural resources. This grant program aligns with the broader mission of preserving Minnesota's diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, prairies, and critical habitats for fish, game, and wildlife. By funding projects that directly address habitat benefits, the DNR aims to promote ecological health and biodiversity within the state. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are the ecosystems and wildlife within the seven-county metro area (Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Washington) and the cities of Duluth, Rochester, or St. Cloud. Projects funded through this cycle are expected to result in measurable improvements in specific species populations, ecosystem functions, and the overall quality of various habitat types. The impact goals are centered on tangible, on-the-ground conservation efforts that lead to healthier and more resilient natural environments. The grant prioritizes projects that contribute to the direct habitat benefits, emphasizing the identification of specific species, ecosystems, habitat types, and natural heritage features. Restoration and enhancement activities are specifically restricted to lands that are permanently protected by a conservation easement, in public ownership (including tribal, federal, state, county, city, school district, special district), or in public waters as defined by Minnesota Statutes. This focus ensures that the funded efforts contribute to long-term conservation and are implemented on lands with secure protection. Expected outcomes include the successful restoration and enhancement of natural habitats, leading to improved conditions for various wildlife and plant species. Measurable results will likely involve metrics related to habitat acreage restored, species diversity increases, or improvements in water quality, all of which must be explicitly identified in the application. The DNR's strategic priority, as reflected in this grant, is to invest in projects that demonstrate clear ecological benefits and contribute to the state's natural heritage. The underlying theory of change is that by supporting localized, well-defined conservation projects, the state can achieve broader, cumulative impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem health. Funding requests can range from $5,000 to $500,000, with a typical grant period lasting 3 to 3.5 years once the contract is executed. Eligible expenses are those directly incurred and necessary for the project, such as contracts, supplies, materials, and salaries. This ensures that the grant funds are utilized efficiently and effectively to achieve the stated conservation objectives. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and government entities, with partnerships highly encouraged. This broad eligibility criterion allows for a diverse range of organizations, from land trusts and lakes associations to cities and tribal governments, to contribute to the conservation efforts. Private individuals and for-profit organizations are not eligible to apply, ensuring that the grants are directed towards public good and conservation initiatives.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in Douglas County, Minnesota, to support initiatives that create meaningful community change in areas such as education, social services, health, arts and culture, and civic engagement.

The Great Rivers United Way is offering a Basic Needs Community Investment Grant of $10,000 to $100,000 for programs and projects in Wisconsin that provide food, shelter, and safety, prioritizing collaborative, successful, innovative, and BIPOC-led initiatives, with applications due by October 4, 2024.

This program provides $100,000 investments and support to high-growth, early-stage companies led by Black, Brown, and women entrepreneurs in Minnesota.

This funding initiative provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in northeastern Minnesota that deliver essential services to low-income individuals and families, helping them meet basic needs and overcome challenges.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities serving rural populations in Central Minnesota who are experiencing poverty, enabling them to implement projects that address immediate and long-term community needs.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that assist low-income individuals and families with basic needs while also promoting animal welfare in the Boreal Waters Community Foundation area.

This funding opportunity supports individuals and not-for-profit organizations in Mankato to enhance cultural vibrancy, beautify public spaces, and improve social services for residents.

This funding opportunity supports organizations in creating public awareness campaigns about Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias, specifically targeting underserved communities such as BIPOC, LGBTQ+ individuals, and residents of Greater Minnesota.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Clearwater County, Minnesota, focusing on youth education, financial stability, and community health initiatives.

This grant provides funding to local nonprofits in Greater Itasca County that support vulnerable children and families by addressing their health and financial stability needs.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in rural Minnesota that provide community-led health solutions focused on equity, particularly for underserved populations, with priority given to free and community clinics.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Duluth, Minnesota, to help underserved youth and families achieve educational success and overcome barriers to learning.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations that provide essential services and community assistance to enhance the resilience and well-being of U.S. veterans transitioning to civilian life.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to various organizations in Minnesota to implement strategies that address opioid use disorders and their impacts on communities, particularly those disproportionately affected by opioid-related harms.

This funding initiative provides financial support to licensed hospitals in Minnesota that serve individuals in emergency medical situations, helping to offset the costs of high-expense care for those not enrolled in traditional Medicaid programs.

This funding opportunity provides financial support and technical assistance to develop affordable supportive housing for Hennepin County's most vulnerable residents, including those with extremely low incomes, disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Beltrami County, Minnesota, focusing on youth education, financial stability, and community health initiatives.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to public and charter schools in Minnesota to develop and enhance community schools that offer comprehensive services to students and families in underserved areas.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and government entities that provide innovative projects benefiting residents and schools in the Greater White Bear Lake region of Minnesota, focusing on areas such as education, social services, health, arts and culture, and civic engagement.