Joy & Connection Grants

Joy & Connection Grants

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Initiative Foundation
Last Updated: June 14, 2025

Summary

The Initiative Foundation's Joy & Connection Grants aim to enhance community spirit and connections in Central Minnesota. With $100,000 available, grants between $1,000 and $7,500 will support projects that foster belonging, promote healing, and inspire purpose. A randomized selection process will invite 25 eligible organizations to apply, encouraging collaboration to create joyful moments and strengthen community ties. This initiative continues the Foundation's commitment to empowering local entities for a thriving, inclusive environment.

Overview

Mission & Strategy The Initiative Foundation’s mission to serve the people of Central Minnesota hasn’t wavered since its inception in 1986. Its goal is to inspire hope and to create opportunity through its mission: To empower people throughout Central Minnesota to build a thriving economy, vibrant communities and a lasting culture of generosity. Our Vision Economy We have an abundance of talented people and job-creating enterprises in our region that contribute to inclusive economic growth and vitality. Community We are a region of robust, highly engaged communities where people choose to live, work, give and play. Generosity People across our region give generously of their time, talent and resources. Joy & Connection Grants Looking to spark joy and build stronger connections in your community? The Initiative Foundation’s Joy & Connection grant round is here to help! With $100,000 available in grants ranging from $1,000 to $7,500, this special funding supports local projects that bring people together, foster belonging, promote healing, and inspire community purpose across Central Minnesota. We will use a randomized selection process to choose 25 organizations from the pool of eligible interest forms. These organizations will be invited to complete a full application. Let’s work together to create more moments of joy and connection!

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Eligible applicants are:Local units of government (municipality, county, township, tribal government, etc.) School districts Nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status The organization must have a physical location in* and serve the Initiative Foundation’s region: Benton, Cass, Chisago, Crow Wing, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Pine, Sherburne, Stearns, Todd, Wadena and Wright counties, and the portions of the Native Nations of the Leech Lake and Mille Lacs Bands of Ojibwe which lay within these counties.