Democracy Grant Program

Democracy Grant Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
Amount: Up to US $500,000
Last Updated: February 07, 2026

Summary

Overview

Democracy Grant Program Our Democracy Grant Program will consider proposals that address one or more of the following: Organizing across issues (e.g., economic justice, climate justice) that builds power and strengthens democratic participation and/or works to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communitiesNarrative infrastructure and storytelling that expands civic voice and dialogue toward an equitable democracy and a just MinnesotaInfrastructure and institution building that expands our movement landscape, strengthens leaders and equips our changemaking ecosystem for lasting power-building We understand this work of realizing and strengthening our democracy manifests across issues. We also understand that organizing leverages various strategies required to shape political agendas and social conditions for long-term change include strengthening narrative infrastructure, organizing resources, increasing democratic participation, and building new institutions. Organizing that works to change the material conditions of communities will both fortify our civic infrastructure and strengthen the democratic participation of communities across the state. Efforts grounded in strong issue-based campaigns, the defense of democratic institutions, leadership development that brings new leaders into the fold, and an orientation of institution building all lay the groundwork for long-term change. Funded work could include any of the following and more: Cross-issue organizing around topics of economic justice, public safety, environment/climate, LGBTQIA+ rights, racial justice, immigration, Indigenous governance and sovereignty, civic engagement working to improve the material conditions of Minnesota communitiesOrganizing strategies that expand base-building and grow new constituencies to build a bigger “we”Organizing that builds narrative infrastructure and power to shape storytelling and expand civic discourse for a just Minnesota Grant Details Grant amounts will be $100,000 per year for a five-year grant period, for total grant amounts of $500,000 per grantee In 2026, up to $2,000,000 is available for this grant program, and we anticipate awarding approximately 20 grants

Eligibility

We've imported the main document for this grant to give you an overview. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website.