Grant Guidelines

Please review the following grant guidelines to be sure your project fits within our funding criteria.

1. 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, and the Native nations of the Upper Sioux Community and the Lower Sioux Indian Community. The Foundation prefers that the applicant is located within our region and that ideas and visions are generated locally.
2. 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.
3. 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)
4. Proposals incorporate an innovative approach and avoid duplication of efforts.
5. 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.
6. Proposals have clearly stated goals and measurable outcomes.
7. 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 a cash contribution.
8. 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.
9. Proposals must show evidence of one or more ways to continue the project beyond foundation funding.
10. Churches and religious organizations may apply for support for activities that benefit the larger community but not for activities that have a strictly religious purpose.

If your project falls within these guidelines, you can complete our grant request form. This is the first step in our grant process.