The 3M Foundation

The application process is ongoing. 3M and the 3M Foundation do not accept unsolicited proposals in St. Paul/Minneapolis, Minn., and Austin, Texas. In these communities, all grants are invited. For other 3M communities, send a letter of inquiry to the local 3M facility addressed to "3M Plant Manager." Outside the United States, direct requests to the 3M office in your country. The foundation's board meets in June and December. Applicants must complete and online eligibility quiz. Please allow six weeks for final notification. For a list of 3M communities visit http://www.3M.com/about3M/community/

The 3M Foundation's goal is to positively impact 3M communities in the giving areas and specific emphases of K-12 Education, Higher Education, Health & Human Services, Arts & Culture; and Environment. (1) K-12 Education Giving: Math, science and economics are disciplines essential to 3M's future success. 3M's giving invests in teachers and opportunities that introduce new methods of learning into classrooms. 3M volunteers bring learning to life as tutors, mentors and classroom speakers. The foundation gives to K-12 Education to increase student achievement in math, science and economics; to make learning relevant through connections with everyday life and future careers; and to inspire students to pursue higher education. Funded projects include such things as public television programs, grants to teachers for special projects, and business/school partnership programs. (2) Higher Education Giving: The foundation gives to higher education in order to advance teaching and learning in science, engineering and business; to increase participation by underrepresented people in these fields; to encourage innovation in private colleges; and to establish a link with K-12 education through professional development for teachers and college readiness for students. The goal is to help students prepare for future opportunities in an ever-changing world. The foundation invests primarily in technical, engineering and business schools, and in efforts that further teaching and learning. Its grants engage students through provision of new facilities, curriculum or programs. The foundation partners with colleges and universities to create academic programs toward these ends. Funded projects include facility construction, student/professional mentorship programs, and educational projects involving students in their communities. (3) Health & Human Services Giving: 3M support helps enrich the lives of youth and strengthens families. The 3M Foundation and its employees are generous donors to local United Way campaigns in communities where it has a presence. 3M also brings assistance and helps communities prepare for disaster. 3M gives to Health & Human Services projects to increase resiliency in youth through prevention efforts from early childhood to 12th grade, and to build and sustain healthy communities. Funding through the foundation has supported such things as facilities renovation and capital grants for human services organizations, and operating support. (4) Arts & Culture: Arts and culture programs, especially those with strong education and outreach, help build the quality of life. The foundation supports creative expression that enriches people's lives and helps them learn more about the world. The foundation gives to Arts & Culture to encourage arts organizations with strong education and community outreach, to promote artistic and cultural diversity, and to support premier arts organizations. Projects funded have included such things as traveling exhibits, experimental educational exhibits, musical performances and artists' residencies. (5) Environment: 3M's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its doors to support environmental initiatives by others in 3M communities. Its vision of sustainability is meeting the needs of customers, employees and communities today, while respecting the ability of future generations to meet their needs. 3M supports programs that make meaningful contributions to the sustainability of the Earth's ecosystems. The foundation gives for the environment to preserve biodiversity; to positively impact climate change; to provide access to natural areas; and to offer opportunities for volunteer involvement.

History of Funds:

In 2007, the 3M Foundation contributed more than $42.5 million to address local community needs through grants from 3M and the 3M Foundation and donations of 3M products. Cash contributions totaled more than $25 million, and varied according to areas, as follows: +$10 million for education (45%); +$7.5 million for health and human services (35%); $3.3 million for arts and culture (11%); +$2.2 million for environment (5%); and +$1.2 million for volunteer and civic programs (4%).

Average Award:

Varies

Name: Cynthia F. Kleven

Department: Secretary

Street: 3M Center

Building 225-1S-23

City: St. Paul

Zip: 55144

Email: cfkleven@mmm.com

Fax: 651-737-3061