Supporting bold ideas & everyday impact

These grants support projects that emphasize collaboration and create lasting positive change. They focus on three key areas:

• Opportunity – Projects empower individuals to achieve economic stability and independence.  
• Resilience – Projects must enhance the ability of organizations, families, or communities to anticipate, adapt to, and recover from challenges, creating sustainable, long-term solutions that reduce risk and promote resilience.
• Belonging – Creating spaces and opportunities where all people are valued, heard, and are able to thrive. Projects amplify voices, foster creative expression, and create a vibrant, inclusive culture.

When to Apply: Community Opportunity Fund Grants are part of our fall grant round.

These grants are for projects in specific focus areas, like the arts, environment, human services, animal welfare and more. 

When to Apply: Area of Interest Grants are offered in both spring and fall. Check individual grant guidelines to confirm timing.

In addition to grants offered directly through Boreal Waters, nonprofit organizations in our region may also be eligible for funding through our local affiliate foundations. Each affiliate is guided by a volunteer advisory committee made up of community members who understand the unique needs and strengths of their area.  

These local grants complement our broader funding opportunities—meaning organizations can apply for support both through Boreal Waters and their regional affiliate, depending on their goals and needs. 

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Available in: 

• Cook County
• Eveleth
• Two Harbors Area
• South Shore (Wisconsin)

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When to Apply: Regional Grants are part of the spring grant round.