Grants
Initiative Foundation Grants
The Initiative Foundation awards grants for projects and programs that empower people across Central Minnesota to build a thriving economy, vibrant communities and a lasting culture of generosity. To be eligible, applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, school districts or local government units operating within the 14-county region served by the Initiative Foundation. This region includes Benton, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena, and Wright counties, as well as the Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Bands of Ojibwe. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with grants awarded through a competitive review process.
Partner Fund Grants
The Initiative Foundation’s family of Partner Funds includes community, education, donor-advised funds and more. These funds also award grants based on specific priorities and typically are more localized to make investments in Central Minnesota communities. Partner Fund grants have varying open application periods.
You, too, can create a Partner Fund and benefit from the Initiative Foundation’s guidance and community connections to make a difference in your community.
Grant Seekers: Create an Account on New Portal
The Initiative Foundation has launched its new portal, a centralized online location where grant-seekers can apply for grants, review grant history, and more.
Grant-seekers must create a new account to gain access. Visit our landing page for information and how-to videos about creating your account and navigating this new space.
The Initiative Foundation’s application for nonprofit capacity-building grants is now open and available.
To complete a close-out report for an existing or open grant, visit the Foundation’s legacy grant portal.
Current Grantees: Financial Reports
The Financial Report Form is for organizations currently receiving a grant. Refer to the provided instructions for next steps.
Grants Awarded
Wondering if your project is a fit? View our awarded grants to see examples of projects.
Grant Questions
Staff support typically is available from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday.
Initiative Foundation staff members respect that there are varying levels of experience in completing applications and encourage open communication with applicants needing additional assistance. Send an email to grants@ifound.org or contact Nicole for nonprofit and Nonprofit Academy questions; Zach or Donniel for economic development and workforce questions; or Jessy for procedural questions.
