Minnesota Wild Foundation Hockey Grant

Minnesota Wild Foundation Hockey Grant

Overview: The Minnesota Wild Foundation Hockey Grant supports programs that "Skate It Forward" by growing the game and expanding access and opportunities across Minnesota. The foundation believes that "Hockey Is For Everyone" - regardless of background, zip code, or financial circumstances.

Mission Alignment: Grants are designed to break down barriers and create opportunities to discover, play, and fall in love with hockey.

Geographic Scope

• Location: State of Minnesota only
• Serving: Communities within Minnesota

Funding Details

• Award Range: $5,000 - $50,000 per grant
• Distribution: One-time grants distributed during the 2025-2026 Wild Hockey season
• One application per organization will be considered per cycle
• Distribution Timeline: Grants will be distributed no later than June 30, 2026

Grant Focus Areas - Priority Given To:

• Programs that introduce new players to the game of hockey
• Programs that remove financial, geographic, or physical barriers to participation
• Programs providing access to equipment, ice time, or instructional programming
• Programs expanding opportunities for youth in underserved or underrepresented communities
• Programs strengthening grassroots and community-based hockey initiatives across Minnesota

Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements:
• Must be a registered 501(c)(3) charity
• Located in and serving communities in Minnesota
• Demonstrated stable and continuous management
• Active Board of Directors
• Clear internal, administrative, and governance standards and policies
• Must provide current Board of Directors list and organizational bylaws upon request

Proposal Requirements:

Hockey grant proposals must support programs that grow the game or introduce hockey to individuals without access

Organizations must outline how they will publicize receipt, purpose, and impact of the grant

Must provide a summary report within six months of receiving funds demonstrating grant distribution and benefits to those served

Ineligible Project Types

Proposals for the following are NOT eligible:
• Projects or programs that benefit an individual
• Capital budget campaigns
• Hockey rink or arena building/refurbishing projects
• Operational expenses
• Private foundations or endowment programs
• International agencies or nonprofits benefiting organizations outside Minnesota
• Churches and religious organizations
• Political parties or political activities

Additional Opportunities

"More Than a Grant" Partnership: Programs that embody the Skate It Forward initiative may have select opportunities for:
• Wild Foundation visibility and storytelling
• Community engagement and co-branding
• Celebration of hockey's power to bring communities together

Contact: Minnesota Wild Foundation (specific contact information not provided in website content)