Get to Know Us

Rooted in the North. Growing a future where everyone thrives—together.

We believe our northern communities hold the power to shape our shared future. Our name honors the boreal forest, an ecosystem known for its resilience, diversity, and deep-rooted connection.

For over 40 years, we’ve been committed to this work—originally as the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. In 2025, we became Boreal Waters to better reflect the full reach of our region and the growing impact of our mission.

Our Name Change

Be on Board Program

Lead With Purpose, Serve With Confidence

Like a RivER

Connection Flows

We see our work as part of a living system. Like the rivers and lakes that link our region, we bring people together by connecting ideas, relationships, and resources to spark bold, community-led change.

Our Mission

We unite people and resources, driving bold action to create lasting impact for a brighter tomorrow.

Our Vision

We envision a vibrant and resilient community where every person is valued, supported, and empowered to thrive—together.

NonProfits at Night

A Networking Event for Changemakers

Investment Mixer

An Engaging Evening of Conversation

Be on Board

Lead With Purpose, Serve With Confidence

Bringing the Community Together

Our Values

Grounded in place and guided by trust, we listen deeply, invest locally, and grow a future where all our communities can thrive.

Collaboration

We believe in the strength of working together and building relationships rooted in trust and shared purpose.

Equity

We listen deeply, uplift diverse voices, and focus resources where they can help close gaps and create opportunity.

Trust

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.

Curiosity

We ask big questions, stay open to new ideas, and learn alongside our communities every step of the way.

what we do

We Channel Energy & Resources Into The Areas That Help Our Communities

Our work is rooted in local knowledge, built on strong relationships, and focused on long-term impact. We support what strengthens communities from the ground up:

Community Giving

We inspire people to give where they live, building a culture of local generosity that uplifts neighborhoods, rural towns, and Indigenous communities across the North. Every contribution—large or small—helps strengthen the fabric of our region.

more about giving

Grantmaking

We invest in bold ideas and grassroots solutions that reflect community priorities—from youth leadership and food sovereignty to environmental stewardship and cultural revitalization. Our grant programs move resources where they’re needed most.

Grant Opportunities

Scholarships

We support students taking the next step—whether it’s heading to university, learning a trade, or returning to school later in life. Our scholarships are designed to be accessible, helping provide people with the resources to pursue education with confidence.

Explore Scholarships

Partnership & Collaboration

We work alongside nonprofits, schools, Indigenous nations, local leaders, and everyday change makers to deepen impact through shared purpose. Together, we build trust, share resources, and create lasting change.

Community Stories

Legacy Building

We help donors turn their values into action—creating long-term impact through endowments, memorial gifts, and legacy funds that will support our region for generations to come.

Start your legacy

Who We Serve

Supporting 12 Counties, Two States, & Seven Tribal Nations

Every day, we support people and communities across a broad and beautiful region—12 counties, two states, and seven tribal nations, with dozens of towns, villages, and rural places in between. We’re proud to serve this place we call home, and grateful to work alongside generous donors and dedicated partners who care deeply about its future.

Minnesota

Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, St. Louis

Wisconsin

Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, Price

Tribal Nations

Mashkiiziibii - Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Zagaakwaandagowininiwag - Bois Forte Band of Chippewa
‍Nah-Gah-Chi-Wa-Nong - Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
‍Gichi Onigaming - Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa
‍Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe
Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, Gaa-Miskwaabikaang - Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that the region we serve is the traditional homeland of Indigenous peoples who have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial. Today, this area includes the sovereign nations of seven Tribal governments, whose ongoing presence, leadership, and cultural knowledge continue to shape and strengthen our communities.We honor these relationships and commit to listening, learning, and working in partnership toward a more just and connected future.