Search Through Water Grants in Minnesota in the U.S.

The Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program, led by The Minneapolis Foundation, supports community-based nonprofits in the Great Lakes region. With a focus on underserved communities, grants will total $40 million over three years, aiming to enhance environmental health, education, and resilience. The program prioritizes applications from federally recognized tribes and organizations with limited budgets, fostering inclusive community engagement and sustainable development. Eligible projects include environmental assessments, public health initiatives, and job training.

The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.

The Quetico Superior Foundation Grant supports the preservation of Minnesota’s Border Lakes Canoe Country and Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park. It funds diverse projects ranging from land preservation to youth programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations engaged in wilderness protection. The foundation aims to enhance the quality of wilderness preservation in the region, ensuring a lasting impact on environmental conservation. Interested groups should reach out for more information.

The MN Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, offers funding to enhance the competitiveness of Minnesota-grown specialty crops in both domestic and international markets. This initiative supports various crops, including fruits, vegetables, and horticulture products, as defined by the USDA. Projects funded can significantly contribute to the agricultural economy and promote sustainable practices in specialty crop production.

The Carolyn Foundation Environmental Grant focuses on combating climate change through community-led initiatives in Minnesota and Indigenous Nations. The Foundation prioritizes organizations that work towards aggressive carbon reduction goals by 2030 to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, not classified as private foundations. The Foundation seeks to support efforts that enhance community engagement and energy efficiency, ensuring equity and environmental justice in policy reforms.

The MNDNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program offers competitive matching grants between $5,000 and $500,000 for projects that restore, protect, or enhance Minnesota's natural resources, including prairies, wetlands, and forests. Grants require a 10% match of non-state funds and are aimed at benefiting habitats for fish and wildlife. Projects must comply with specific statutory requirements, ensuring that funded activities directly contribute to habitat improvement.

The Joyce Foundation's Environment Grants focus on addressing critical environmental challenges in the Great Lakes region, such as climate change and water safety. The foundation prioritizes equitable, carbon-free energy solutions and clean water access for all communities. Grants are awarded to organizations committed to environmental justice and innovation in climate policy, particularly in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin, ensuring that the voices of affected communities guide project development.

The Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program offers matching grants between $5,000 and $500,000 to organizations aiming to restore, protect, or enhance Minnesota's natural habitats. The program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, emphasizes projects that focus on prairies, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. A 10% match of non-state funds is required, and total project costs cannot exceed $1,000,000. Applications are reviewed bi-monthly until May 11, 2026, or until funding is depleted.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

The Butler Family Foundation Community Grant provides two-year funding to 501(c)(3) organizations in Minnesota focused on arts, environment, and human services. Grants support general operations or specific projects, with minimum awards of $30,000 for operating costs and $20,000 for program support. Priority is given to organizations serving urban areas of St. Paul and Minneapolis, promoting community arts, environmental stewardship, and essential services for vulnerable populations, particularly youth and families.

The Community Grants Program by the Butler Family Foundation supports organizations focused on environmental stewardship in Minnesota. Grants of $30,000 annually for general support or $20,000 for specific projects are available for 501(c)(3) organizations with budgets over $300,000. The program emphasizes land and water protection, aiming to educate youth on sustainable practices. This initiative seeks to foster community involvement in preserving Minnesota's natural resources.

The MHS Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Small and Structured Grants provide essential funding for projects that preserve and enhance Minnesota's rich history and cultural resources. Established through the Legacy Amendment's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, these grants support a variety of initiatives, including history projects and historic preservation efforts. With a focus on community engagement and sustainability, the program aims to foster lasting impacts on local history and cultural heritage throughout Minnesota.

The Hubbard County Coalition of Lake Associations Grant, funded by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, supports projects that promote environmentally sustainable practices for local lakes and watersheds. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and community groups within Hubbard County. Projects can involve invasive species prevention, water quality research, and educational initiatives. A matched funding requirement ensures community engagement, making it a vital resource for preserving local natural resources and enhancing community resilience.

The Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) provides essential funding to cities, townships, and counties for housing, public infrastructure, and commercial rehabilitation projects. Aimed at benefiting low-and-moderate income households, SCDP enhances community viability by facilitating economic opportunities and improving living conditions. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), this program offers competitive grants for diverse development needs, with funding caps of $600,000 for single-purpose projects and $1.4 million for comprehensive initiatives.

The MHS Minnesota Historical and Cultural Heritage Large Grants program, funded by the Legacy Amendment's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, supports projects that preserve Minnesota's history and culture. This competitive grant program, initiated in 2009, aims to enhance access to cultural resources and promote enduring historical projects. Eligible initiatives include history documentation, preservation planning, and education programs, contributing to the state's rich heritage while fostering public engagement and awareness.

Minnesota's Coastal Program Grants offer funding for projects aimed at enhancing the management of Lake Superior's coastal areas. Managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, these small grants (up to $10,000) support short-term initiatives that promote planning, outreach, technology advancement, and youth education. Eligible projects include developing plans, hosting conferences, and creating educational resources for youth. The program prioritizes sustainability and community engagement in coastal management efforts.

The Community Opportunity Fund, managed by Boreal Waters Community Foundation, empowers local organizations to enhance economic stability and independence in northern communities. The fund supports projects focused on affordable housing, job creation, and access to education. By fostering collaborative efforts, it aims to create lasting change in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. Organizations led by marginalized communities are especially encouraged to apply, ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

The Community Opportunity Fund: Resilience Grant, offered by Boreal Waters Community Foundation, supports transformative projects in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin. It aims to enhance community resilience by funding initiatives that foster adaptation and recovery from challenges. Eligible applicants include established nonprofits and grassroots organizations focused on equity and sustainability. The grant emphasizes collaborative solutions that address pressing issues like housing stability and food security, ensuring a lasting impact for historically marginalized communities.

The Community Opportunity Fund, managed by Boreal Waters Community Foundation, empowers local organizations in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin by providing essential funding for transformative projects. This initiative focuses on uniting community resources to foster innovative ideas, strengthen nonprofits, and drive impactful change. With a long-standing commitment to supporting civic engagement, the Fund directs support to where it's most needed, ensuring that communities can thrive even in challenging times.

The Antioch Foundation Grant supports innovative projects that share the Gospel and serve communities in faith, education, medicine, and humanitarian needs. Established in 2000, it prioritizes pilot programs and start-up costs, with most awards not exceeding $40,000 for a one-year period. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, particularly those affiliated with the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod. Evidence of support from other donors is encouraged to enhance funding opportunities.

The Otter Tail Corporation Foundation Grant Program focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in communities across Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Priorities include early childhood education, health services for families in need, community development, and environmental sustainability. While the 2025 budget is fully allocated, they encourage applications for 2026, emphasizing collaborative projects that create measurable impacts.

The Clean Water Legacy Partners Grant Program, administered by the Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, aims to enhance partnerships for protecting and restoring Minnesota's water resources. With funding of $500,000 for the first year and $2,000,000 for the second year, the program supports initiatives like clean water workshops, rain gardens, and shoreline protection. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and tribal governments dedicated to improving water quality.

The Community Opportunity Fund: Belonging Grant, offered by Boreal Waters Community Foundation, aims to foster inclusive spaces where all voices are valued. This grant supports community-driven projects that enhance collaboration and respect among diverse groups, particularly those from historically marginalized communities. It provides funding for program support, operating expenses, and capacity building to ensure lasting impact. By prioritizing equity and community ownership, this initiative seeks transformative change across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is inviting proposals for the Agricultural Fertilizer Research and Education Program, aimed at enhancing agricultural practices and environmental health. With a funding opportunity of up to $1,200,000, eligible applicants can include farmers, research institutions, and non-profits. The program focuses on research related to fertilizer application, soil amendments, and best management practices to safeguard water quality. This initiative supports innovative projects that align with updated legislative priorities for the 2024 cropping season.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is inviting applications for its Lake Superior Coastal Program Annual Grants. These grants aim to protect and restore coastal resources while promoting sustainable development in Minnesota's coastal communities. Eligible projects may include community engagement, ecological preservation, and improved access to public coastal areas. This funding provides a vital opportunity for local organizations to address pressing coastal issues and enhance recreational and ecological values along Lake Superior.

The Lake Minnetonka Excelsior Rotary Club offers grants for international projects that create positive impacts in communities, focusing on human health, education, economic development, and clean water. Preference is given to projects completed by June 30, 2026, and organizations based in the U.S., especially Minnesota. These grants are designed to support non-profits that collaborate with local Rotary clubs, ensuring meaningful contributions to both local and international causes.

The Wirtanen Family Fund supports initiatives aimed at fostering community awareness of global interdependence, promoting social justice, and increasing democratic participation. It prioritizes projects addressing contemporary issues with regional impact, such as health care access and environmental preservation. Eligible organizations include those classified as charitable under IRS codes and serving specific counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The fund encourages co-sponsorship and highlights the importance of understanding diverse cultures and social systems.