Grant Opportunities

Training & Capacity‑Building Grant - Request for Proposals (RFP)

Purpose - This grant supports training and professional development for non-profit staff and volunteers to strengthen organizational capacity, leadership, and service quality. Funding is intended to help organizations build skills that improve effectiveness, sustainability, and community impact, including educational opportunities for older adults.

Application Open May 8th thru May 29th

Grant Amount - Requests may range from:

Minimum: $500

Maximum: $2,000

Applicants should request only the amount needed to complete the proposed activities.

Eligible Applicants - Eligible applicants include nonprofit and community‑based organizations that reside in or provide direct services within one or more of the following Minnesota counties: Kittson, Roseau, Lake of the Woods, Marshall, Beltrami, Polk, Pennington, Red Lake, Clearwater, Norman, Mahnomen, or Hubbard

Volunteer‑driven and fiscally sponsored organizations are eligible to apply.

Allowable Uses of Funds

Grant funds may be used for training, education, and capacity‑building activities, including:

• Evidence‑based program or class leader training

• Conference attendance (e.g., aging, health, leadership, Wisdom Steps, or nonprofit conferences)

• Leadership development for staff, volunteers, or board members

• Marketing and communications training for small nonprofits

• Virtual or in‑person workshops, courses, or certifications

• Instructor fees and materials for offering educational classes for older adults in community settings, such as classes in art, cooking, music, or similar enrichment activities

Funds may cover registration fees, instructional costs, training materials, and reasonable travel expenses directly related to the approved activities.

Activities funded under this project need to be completed between July 1, 2026 – October 31st, 2026.

Ineligible Uses

Funds may not be used for general operating expenses, capital purchases, or activities unrelated to staff, volunteer, or educational development.

Application Requirements

Applications must include: A brief description of the proposed training or educational activity - Identification of staff, volunteers, and/or older adult participants - How the activity will benefit the organization Opportunity for NW MN and/or older adults served - A simple budget and timeline

Reporting - Grant recipients will submit a brief summary describing activities completed, number of participants, and how the learning or programming was applied.