McNeely Foundation: Environment Grant

McNeely Foundation: Environment Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: McNeely Foundation
Last Updated: January 15, 2026

Summary

The McNeely Foundation: Environment Grant aims to enhance public access to parks and open spaces in East Side St. Paul, Minnesota. It invites applications from tax-exempt organizations and public agencies for projects that foster community engagement with the environment. The foundation seeks initiatives that connect neighborhoods to parks, encourage stewardship, and promote sustainable usage of open spaces. Grants support projects that have a high impact and reflect the community's needs.

Overview

About Us The Foundation has historically leveraged human and financial resources to foster a thriving East Side St. Paul, Minnesota where the McNeely business developed. The McNeely Foundation was set up in the 1960s by Harry G. McNeely Sr, and his wife Adelaide Frenzel McNeely. It was originally funded with a gift of stock from their business, The St. Paul Terminal Warehouse Company. Grantmaking Focus: The McNeely Foundation funds organizations that create a more vibrant and sustainable East Side of St Paul. It will consider applications from organizations outside of the targeted geography and age group for innovative work that could be integrated or replicated on the East Side. Our four grantmaking focus areas are Youth Development Through Enrichment, Youth Development Through Employment Training, Environment, and Family & Neighborhood Stability. Environment Goal: Increase public access to parks and open space on the East Side of St. Paul. Strategies: Increase connections between East Side neighborhoods and existing parks and open spaces.Support programming that increases usage and stewardship of open spaces on the East Side.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Who may apply:Organizations with an IRS classification as a tax-exempt, non-profit organization that is not a private foundationPublic agencies or schools that have been invited to applyProgram and project support is most typically funded however, general operating grants may be made as well as capital grants in very limited situations.Almost all of McNeely Foundation grants are awarded to benefit populations and neighborhoods on the East Side of Saint Paul, namely Payne-Phalen, Dayton’s Bluff, and Greater East Side, and includes the Battle Creek neighborhood in certain circumstances.

Ineligibility

Programs and projects not supported are, for example, in-school residence programs, one day events, or trips for youth.