West Central Initiative Offers Grants for Environmental, Social, and Civic Projects

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West Central Initiative, a regional community foundation, is seeking grant applications for projects focused on environmental sustainability, social equity, and civic engagement across west central Minnesota and the White Earth Nation. The grants will support nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities working to address these priorities through community-led initiatives.

Why it matters

These grants aim to empower grassroots efforts that can drive positive change and build a more resilient region. By investing in environmental, social, and civic initiatives, West Central Initiative hopes to foster sustainable development, advance equity, and strengthen community participation in west central Minnesota.

The details

The grant program includes three focus areas: Environmental Sustainability Grants, Social Change Grants, and Civic Engagement Grants. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public or nonprofit schools, and units of government (including Tribal government) serving people in west central Minnesota or the White Earth Nation. The application period is open until February 26 at 5 p.m., and grant recipients will be notified in April with funding to be distributed in mid-May. The grant period runs from May 2026 to April 2027, and grantees will be required to submit a report by the end of the grant period.

• The grant application period is open from January 20 to February 26, 2026 at 5 p.m.
• Grant recipients will be notified in April 2026.
• Grant funding will be distributed in mid-May 2026.
• The grant period runs from May 2026 to April 2027.
• Grant reports are due by the end of the grant period in April 2027.