Midwest Climate & Energy Grants
The McKnight Foundation Midwest Climate & Energy program funds research and projects advancing equitable, innovative climate and energy solutions in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa.
Funder: McKnight Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): September 2026
Funding Amounts: No maximum request; recent annual program budget ~$32M; typical grants are 1–2 years, both operating and project support available.
Summary: Supports organizations advancing climate and energy solutions in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa through innovative, community-based, and policy-relevant work.
Key Information: Applicants must contact program staff before applying; eligibility limited to nonprofits and government entities with work in the specified states.
Description
The McKnight Foundation’s Midwest Climate & Energy program funds organizations working to address climate and energy challenges in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Iowa. The program seeks to dramatically reduce greenhouse gas emissions and advance an equitable clean energy transition in the Midwest. Funding is available for innovative projects, general operations, and (rarely) capital needs that align with the program’s strategies: transforming the energy system, decarbonizing transportation and buildings, supporting working lands, and strengthening democratic participation. The program prioritizes community-driven, policy-relevant, and systems-changing work that advances equity and climate solutions.
