CAAL Ignite Fund

Geographic Scope: Minnesota (39+ cities and regions reached)

Funder: Coalition of Asian American Leaders (CAAL), powered by visionary supporters including MacKenzie Scott

Background: CAAL Ignite is the Coalition of Asian American Leaders' signature grant program. Over $350,000 committed for 2024–25 cycle.

Mission

Investing in bold ideas that:

• Combat anti-Asian hate
• Strengthen economic power
• Cultivate the next generation of community leaders
• Advance community leadership
• Stand up to anti-Asian hate

2025 Cohort Statistics

• 20 grants awarded across three categories
• 15 Asian American ethnic groups represented
• 39+ cities and regions of Minnesota reached

Funding Categories

CAA Ignite awards grants across three categories:

1. Small Businesses

• Focus: Entrepreneurs launching or expanding ventures
• Goal: Strengthen Asian American economic vitality
• Types: For-profit businesses owned by Asian Americans

2. Nonprofits & Community Organizations

• Focus: Organizations scaling existing programs or piloting new services
• Goal: Address community priorities
• Types: 501(c)(3) organizations and community groups

3. Individuals & Fellows

• Focus: Changemakers from emerging leaders to student fellows
• Goal: Pursue projects, research, or experiences that uplift the community
• Types: Individual practitioners, researchers, fellows, students

Contact Information

Address: 941 Lafond Ave, St. Paul, MN 55104

Application Materials Required

Applicants should gather these materials early:

1. Project Overview
   • Concise summary of the initiative
   • Goals of the project
   • Target audience
   • Community impact
2. Budget & Resource Plan
   • Itemized breakdown of how grant funds will be used
   • In-kind or matching resources
   • Financial projections
3. Financial Documentation (if applicable)
   • Past year's financial statements
   • Audited reports (for businesses and nonprofits)
   • Documentation to demonstrate viability
4. Letter of Support
   • One-page endorsement
   • From: community partner, mentor, or board member
   • Speaking to project's promise and potential

How to Stay Informed

• Sign up for email updates at caalmn.org
• Receive notifications for:
  • Application deadlines
  • Virtual information sessions
  • New resources
• Register to be notified of next cycle