[Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation](https://spmcf.org)

Invitation only (rolling, based on invitation)

Up to $1,200,000 total in 2026; typically 2–3 multi-year general operating grants awarded.

Supports East Metro organizations collaborating to address root causes of community issues and advance racial equity through systemic change.

By invitation only; contact the Grants Team before applying.

--- ## Description The Systems Change Grant Program is designed to fund organizations, programs, or initiatives in the East Metro (Dakota, Ramsey, and Washington counties, with a special emphasis on Saint Paul) that are working collaboratively to address the root causes of issues impacting the community. The program prioritizes efforts that adapt, transform, or disrupt systems to achieve more equitable outcomes, with a strong commitment to racial equity and community involvement. Activities supported include advocacy (non-partisan), organizing, research, civic engagement, narrative change, and storytelling. Grants focus on ensuring that those most affected by barriers are actively involved in shaping and benefiting from the work. --- ## Due Dates - Invitation only; there is no public application deadline. - Interested organizations must be invited to apply and should contact the Grants Team for more information. --- ## Funding Amount - Up to $1,200,000 is available for this program in 2026. - Approximately two to three multi-year general operating grants will be awarded. - Grant amounts and periods may vary based on the proposals. --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants include: - 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations - Government entities - Educational institutions - Organizations with a fiscal sponsor - Must serve or have significant impact in Dakota, Ramsey, or Washington counties (East Metro). - Preference is given to organizations: - Addressing disparities and creating equitable outcomes for marginalized communities (by race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability, or geography) - Demonstrating that those experiencing barriers are not only beneficiaries but also inform, form, and lead the work (Informs, Forms, Benefits framework) - Not eligible: - Capital projects outside the three counties - Organizations not primarily serving residents of the three counties - Sectarian religious programs or organizations - Individuals - Medical research --- ## Application Process - The program operates by invitation only; unsolicited applications are not accepted. - Steps for interested organizations: 1. Review grant guidelines and eligibility. 2. Contact the Grants Team to discuss fit and potential invitation. 3. If invited, submit a letter of inquiry (LOI) followed by a full application through the GranteeView portal. 4. Register for GranteeView to access the application system ([GranteeView registration](https://spmf.iphiview.com/spmf/GranteeView/RegisterforGranteeView/tabid/650/Default.aspx)). - Only select organizations will be invited to submit a LOI and full application. --- ## Additional Information - Grants provide general operating support. - Priority is given to collaborative, community-driven solutions with a racial equity focus. - Lobbying activities are not funded. - For technical or eligibility questions, early contact with the Grants Team is encouraged, especially for first-time applicants. --- ## External Links - [Program page & eligibility](https://frbigelow.org/grants/systems-change-grant-program) - [Grant guidelines (PDF)](https://frbigelow.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/11/F.-R.-Bigelow-Foundation-Systems-Change-Grant-Program-Guidelines.pdf) - [Grant resources & application instructions](https://frbigelow.org/grant-resources/) - [GranteeView application portal](https://spmf.iphiview.com/spmf/GranteeView) - [Contact the Grants Team](https://frbigelow.org/grants-team/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | Notes | |---------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|-----------------|--------------------------------------| | Kedar Hickman | [kedar.hickman@spmcf.org](mailto:kedar.hickman@spmcf.org?subject=Bigelow%20Foundation%20Inquiry) | 651.325.4211 | Program Officer, primary contact | | Grants Team | [communityimpact@spmcf.org](mailto:communityimpact@spmcf.org?subject=Bigelow%20Foundation%20Inquiry) | 651.224.5463 | General inquiries | | Technical Support | [grantsadmin@spmcf.org](mailto:grantsadmin@spmcf.org?subject=Technical%20Support) | | GranteeView portal support | For additional team contacts, see the [Meet the Grants Team page](https://frbigelow.org/grants-team/).

Systems Change Grant Program

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