McKnight Foundation

The McKnight Foundation is a Minnesota-based family foundation established in 1953 by William and Maud McKnight. It works to advance a more just, creative, and abundant future where people and planet thrive, combining a strong commitment to its home state with selected national and international programs.

The foundation priorities include accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy in the Midwest, protecting and restoring the Mississippi River, supporting vibrant and equitable arts and culture in Minnesota, and strengthening communities. It also funds scientific research through its long-running neuroscience awards and supports international crop research aimed at improving food security for smallholder farmers.

McKnight makes grants to nonprofit organizations, research institutions, and, through specific award programs, to individual scientists and artists, using mechanisms that range from open calls to invited proposals. Researchers, artists, and organizations can find current McKnight funding opportunities and deadlines on Atom.