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In Minnesota, the future isn’t something we wait for — it’s something we build together.

Across rural towns, city neighborhoods and classrooms, leaders, educators and community members are investing in young people with intention, care and a belief in what’s possible.

Our Commitment to Youth & Education

We believe youth are the future, and education is at the core of how we share our knowledge and values. However, not all youth have access to the same quality of education. That’s why we recognize how important it is for students and young people to feel cared for, protected, valued and seen.

We work alongside community leaders, donors, and organizations that support access to high-quality childcare and education programs.

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How We Invest

Grantmaking

Grantmaking is one of the primary ways we support positive change in the Youth & Education sector. Through our application-based grant program, we have made 372 grants totaling $11.6 million to 184 organizations in the Youth & Education categories over the past five years.

    372

    Grants Given

    $11.6M

    Granted

    184

    Organizations

    Donor-led Grants

    Our fundholders care deeply about many issues, including Youth & Education. Over the last five years, our donor advised fundholders have recommended thousands of grants to initiatives and nonprofits that support youth and education.

    4,127

    Grants Given

    $48.8M

    Granted

    706

    Organizations

    Partnerships & Collaborations

    Additionally, we have partnered with philanthropic entities, business leaders and local government on key community initiatives like:

    Neighborhood House Connected MN

    Partnership for a ConnectedMN

    In 2020 and 2021, Partnership for ConnectedMN awarded $5.7 million in grants to more than 50 nonprofits serving the connectivity needs of students and their families. An estimated 85,000 students and families in rural and urban communities across the state were able to gain access to computing devices, internet and critical support services like coaching and tech support.

    Partnership for ConnectedMN was launched during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic as a public-private partnership to ensure students and families across Minnesota — especially communities most in need, including students who are Black, Indigenous and People of Color, from low-income families, and/or residing in rural Minnesota — had access to the technology, internet connectivity and digital learning support required to thrive.

    Want to Support Youth & Education?

    Are you interested in making an ongoing impact? Opening a fund with the Foundation can amplify your impact on youth and education causes in our community.

    2023 05 SOL of the Cities youth playing futsal

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