[McKnight Foundation](https://www.mcknight.org)

Rolling (proposals accepted year-round)

Varies by project; both operating and project grants available; capital grants considered only in exceptional cases.

Supports organizations in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa advancing climate and energy solutions through a streamlined application process.

Funding decisions typically within three months; nonprofits and government entities eligible.

--- ## Description The Midwest Climate & Energy program of the McKnight Foundation funds organizations based in and working within Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa to advance climate solutions aligned with the Foundation’s strategic priorities. The program focuses on both operating and project grants, with capital grants considered only in rare circumstances. Applicants are encouraged to review the Foundation’s approach and consult with program staff prior to applying to ensure alignment with funding strategies. The program seeks to support efforts that transform the energy system, decarbonize transportation and buildings, support working lands, and strengthen democratic participation, all with a strong emphasis on equity and systems change. --- ## Due Dates - Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year. - Funding decisions are typically made within three months of submission. - For funding needed in the current calendar year, applicants are encouraged to apply by September 1 due to year-end processing priorities. --- ## Funding Amount - Award amounts vary depending on the scope and scale of the proposed work. - Both operating and project grants are available. - Capital grants are considered only in exceptional circumstances. - There is no published minimum or maximum award size; applicants should propose budgets appropriate to their project and organizational needs. --- ## Eligibility - Organizations must be based in and working in Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Iowa. - Applicants must be classified by the IRS as tax-exempt nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3)), with very few exceptions. - Government entities may apply for funding for innovative projects but generally not for activities that are the sole responsibility of government. - Other Midwest states are eligible by invitation only. - The program does not fund: - Scholarships or aid for individuals - Conferences, travel, or attendance - Discrete construction, installation, or deployment costs - Land purchase - Endowments or capital campaigns (except in rare cases) - Activities with a specific religious purpose - Lobbying prohibited by the Internal Revenue Code --- ## Application Process - Review the [program’s approach](https://www.mcknight.org/programs/midwest-climate-energy/our-approach/) and [funding FAQ](https://www.mcknight.org/grants/funding-faq/). - Contact the Midwest Climate & Energy team to discuss your eligibility and fit with funding strategies before applying. - Preview the application form ([PDF](https://www.mcknight.org/wp-content/uploads/Midwest-Climate-and-Energy-Application-Open-PDF-Version.pdf), [Word](https://www.mcknight.org/wp-content/uploads/Midwest-Climate-and-Energy-Application-Open-Word-Version-1.docx)). - Submit your proposal through the [online application portal](https://bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com/apply/programs/cde2dc8b-5ee9-4c8a-9ed3-e789b2e94c12). - Program staff will contact applicants within two weeks of submission regarding next steps. - Funding decisions are typically made within three months of receiving a full proposal. --- ## Additional Information - Grants submitted and reviewed in the fourth quarter may take longer to process due to year-end priorities. - Applicants seeking funding within the current calendar year should submit their proposals by September 1. - For technical issues with the application system, applicants can call (612) 333-4220 or email kjohnson@mcknight.org. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview & How to Apply](https://www.mcknight.org/programs/midwest-climate-energy/how-to-apply/) - [Program Approach & Strategies](https://www.mcknight.org/programs/midwest-climate-energy/our-approach/) - [Funding FAQ](https://www.mcknight.org/grants/funding-faq/) - [Application Portal](https://bbgm-apply.yourcausegrants.com/apply/programs/cde2dc8b-5ee9-4c8a-9ed3-e789b2e94c12) --- ## Contact Information | Contact Method | Details | |---|---| | Phone | +1 612-333-4220 | | Email | [kjohnson@mcknight.org](mailto:kjohnson@mcknight.org) | | Contact Form | [Contact the Midwest Climate & Energy team](https://www.mcknight.org/programs/midwest-climate-energy/contact-us/) |

Midwest Climate & Energy Grants

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