[Bush Foundation](https://www.bushfoundation.org)

March 2026 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $450,000 total over 3 years (up to $150,000/year, limited to 25% of annual expenses) plus $10,000 for skill-building

Flexible, multi-year operating support for organizations that empower problem solvers in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and 23 Native nations.

--- ## Description Ecosystem Grants from the Bush Foundation provide flexible, multi-year operating support to organizations that help others drive creative problem solving and positive change in the Upper Midwest region. The program targets organizations that are relied upon for critical data and analysis, public awareness and policy advancement, spreading innovative ideas, building capacity, and supporting leadership networks. Priority is given to organizations working across a variety of issues or specifically advancing Native nation sovereignty, promoting student-centered learning, or using art to address community challenges. Grantees benefit from Bush Foundation’s promotion of their work and a collaborative, supportive relationship throughout the grant period. --- ## Due Dates - March 2026 (anticipated full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: $450,000 over 3 years (up to $150,000 per year) - Grants are limited to no more than 25% of an organization’s annual expenses - Additional $10,000 available for skill-building to work across differences - Occasional extra funding may be available for extraordinary, one-time opportunities relevant to the region --- ## Eligibility - Organizations must be based in or support efforts in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, or the 23 Native nations in this geography. - Eligible applicants: - 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or government entities (including schools) - Coalitions/collaboratives (only one organization may receive the grant) - Organizations with a fiscal sponsor that has 501(c)(3) status - In rare cases, other types of organizations (contact the Foundation to discuss) - Organizations must be recognized as critical supports to problem solvers in the region. - Fiscal sponsorship agreements are required if applying through a sponsor. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted via an online form; alternatives are available if needed. - Review the [full list of application questions and criteria](https://www.bushfoundation.org/application-questions-criteria/). - The process typically includes: - Initial application review (April–May in past cycles) - Notification of advancement by late May - Phone interviews and financial review for finalists (June–July) - Final decisions typically announced by early August - Financial health is reviewed, but open conversation about challenges is encouraged. --- ## Additional Information - The Foundation promotes grantees' work and supports open, collaborative relationships. - Additional funding may be available to current grantees for extraordinary, one-time opportunities that significantly support regional problem solvers. - The Foundation values flexibility, trust, and shared learning in its grantee relationships. --- ## External Links - [Program Page: Ecosystem Grants](https://www.bushfoundation.org/opportunities/ecosystem-grants-organizations/) - [Bush Foundation Funding for Your Organization](https://www.bushfoundation.org/funding-for-your-organization/) - [Application Questions & Criteria](https://www.bushfoundation.org/application-questions-criteria/) - [Fiscal Sponsorship Information](https://www.bushfoundation.org/fiscal-sponsorship-information/) - [Contact Page](https://www.bushfoundation.org/contact-us/) --- ## Contact Information | Type | Details | |-------------------|----------------------------------------------| | Email | staff@bushfoundation.org | | Phone | 651-379-2249 | | Address | 101 Fifth Street East, Suite 2400, Saint Paul, MN 55101 | | Online Contact | [Contact Us](https://www.bushfoundation.org/contact-us) |

Ecosystem Grants - Bush Foundation

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