The McKnight Foundation (Minnesota)

Deadlines vary by program area. In several program areas, applications are reviewed four times annually, and are typically due three months before scheduled review (i.e., applications to be reviewed in May are due in February). Requests for general operating support are typically reviewed annually. Please consult the program guidance for the program area of interest for specific deadline information. Guidance for each program area is available on the foundation's web site, www.mcknight.org. Follow the "How to Apply" link.

The McKnight Foundation, a Minnesota-based private philanthropic organization, seeks to improve the quality of life for present and future generations. Through grant making, coalition-building, and encouragement of strategic policy reform, the foundation uses its resources to attend, unite, and empower those it serves. The foundation offers grants in seven different program areas: Arts; Children and Families; Environment; International; Region and Community; Research; and Greater Minnesota. More specifically, the foundation uses its resources to improve the quality of the arts in Minnesota and to improve access to the arts for all Minnesotans; works to provide children and families with the skills, knowledge, and resources necessary for children to thrive and transition successfully to adulthood; uses its resources to maintain and restore a healthy environment in the Mississippi River Basin and promote and develop renewable energy in Minnesota and the Midwest; uses its resources to promote strong rural livelihoods and food security for people with limited opportunities internationally; encourages effective development within the Twin Cities region that creates livable communities and opportunities for all to thrive. McKnight's scientific programs grow out of the interests of founder William McKnight, who headed one of the most innovative research and development organizations in America. In addition, through the foundation's support of the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations, it works to make Greater Minnesota stronger and more prosperous. Each of these areas includes various sub-areas. In general, the foundation's programs respond to community needs, help stakeholders to collaborate, and attempt to change systems and public policy. Guidelines vary by program area; please consult the McKnight Foundation web site, www.mcknight.org, for guidelines for each program area. The foundation does not provide funding outside Minnesota, with five important programmatic exceptions: in the Environment program area, grants are available in the 10 states bordering or encompassing the Mississippi River. In the area of Neuroscience research, grants are made nationally. In the Collaborative Crop research area, grants are made internationally; in Africa, grants are made for projects in Tanzania and Uganda only, and for ongoing and previously funded projects/organizations only. In Southeast Asia, grants are made for projects in Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam only. McKnight does not generally support: work in the fields of mental health or disabilities, except for services to enhance parents' capacity to nurture their children; chemical dependency treatment; services for seniors; health services or policy; assistance for individuals, including scholarships; attendance at or travel to conferences or costs related to conferences; travel, except when related to other McKnight support of an organization; scientific research outside established McKnight research programs; endowments, except in rare cases; or activities that have a specific religious purpose.

History of Funds:

The Foundation had assets of approximately $1.8 billion and gave about $98 million in grants in 2009.

Average Award:

Varies

Name: The McKnight Foundation

Street: 710 South Second Street

Suite 400

City: Minneapolis

Zip: 55401