How to Apply for a Grant

Please refer to our Web site for grant information at www.swmnfoundation.org. If you do not have access to the Internet, please call us at 1-800-594-9480 and request a complete grant information packet.  Contact us with your questions about grant opportunities, how your project might fit, how to apply for a grant, or for other information you might need.

The application process begins with the submission of a two-page letter of inquiry that must include the following information (see Web site for a sample letter):

• Name, address, telephone number, and contact person
• Brief description of your organization’s history, mission, programs, services, and tax exempt status
• Description of the project, expected outcomes, project start date, and intended use of the funds
• List of partners and explanation of their involvement in the project
• Amount of funds requested and total project cost (see guidelines below)

 To reduce paper and expedite the application process, please submit your letter via e-mail to [email protected].  If you do not have access to e-mail, send your letter to Cheryl Glaeser, Southwest Minnesota Foundation, PO Box 428, Hutchinson, MN 55350.

Letters received by the first of the month will be reviewed that month.  If your project fits the Foundation's priority areas and meets our guidelines, you may be invited to submit a final application.  An invitation to submit a final application does not guarantee a grant award.  If we cannot fund your project, we may be able to suggest other potential sources of funding.

Grant Guidelines

All proposals must demonstrate a benefit within the following 18 counties in southwest Minnesota: Big Stone, Chippewa, Cottonwood, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, McLeod, Meeker, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Swift, and Yellow Medicine.  The Foundation prefers that the applicant is located within the 18-county area and that ideas and visions are generated locally.   

• Targeted and diverse populations are involved early in the development of the proposed project and throughout the implementation (i.e. youth, older adults, and various interest groups).

• Proposals incorporate an innovative approach and avoid duplication of efforts.

• Proposals have clearly stated goals and measurable outcomes.

• Proposals must exhibit evidence of appropriate partnerships.  It is best to include letters from partners that clearly state their level of support and commitment to the project.

• Grants generally range from $1,000 to $20,000.  The Foundation will consider funding for up to 50 percent of a project.  The remaining 50 percent must be provided through other sources, including in-kind and cash contributions.

• Grant requests are considered for up to one year of funding.  Additional project funding may be considered annually and at a declining funding level for up to three years.

• Proposals must be submitted by a 501(c)(3) organization, a unit of government, or by a public agency.  Organizations that are not tax exempt must apply through a suitable fiscal agent willing to accept responsibility for the project.

• Churches and religious organizations may apply for support for activities that benefit the larger community, but not for activities that have a sectarian religious purpose.

• Proposals must show evidence of one or more ways to continue the project beyond Foundation funding.

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