Building Better Lives grants
The Building Better Lives grants fund projects advancing health, economic mobility, civic engagement, and nonprofit capacity to strengthen Northwest Minnesota communities.
Funder: Northwest Minnesota Foundation (https://nwmf.org)
Due Dates: July 27, 2026 | November 30, 2026 | March 30, 2027
Funding Amounts: Typical awards: $5,000–$15,000 (one-year); up to $80,000 total available per cycle; some events capped at $5,000.
Summary: Supports projects that empower and strengthen Northwest Minnesota communities, with priorities in health, economic mobility, civic engagement, and nonprofit capacity.
Description
Building Better Lives grants are offered three times annually by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation to support projects that strengthen people and communities within the region. The program invests in initiatives that expand access to resources, foster civic engagement, promote stability and growth, and address barriers to opportunity. Priority is given to efforts supporting families, advancing mental and physical health, cultivating welcoming communities, promoting economic mobility and workforce development, and building nonprofit capacity. Grants are intended to be flexible, supporting a wide range of direct services, community engagement, and organizational development.
