The Bush Foundation's purpose is to inspire and support creative problem solving — within and across sectors — to make the region better for everyone. Everything the foundation does is to advance this purpose. It is what ties the work together. The Foundation invests in great ideas and the people who power them in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 Native nations that share this geography.
The Foundation works through open grantmaking programs to support efforts to: develop, test and spread great ideas that will make the region better for everyone; and inspire, equip and connect people to more effectively lead change.
These programs include:
Previous grantees can be searched in the Foundation's database at: https://www.bushfoundation.org/grants-database/
Before applying for a grant, please schedule a call with the Foundation so the Foundation team can hear your ideas and answer your questions.
To be eligible for consideration an organization must be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, tax-exempt organization or government entity located in Minnesota, North Dakota or South Dakota. Grants must be used for projects located in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota or the 23 Native nations that share the same geography.
Deadlines vary by program area, with many applications open year-round. Refer to the Foundation website for more information. Potential applicants are encouraged to schedule an initial meeting with staff to discuss funding opportunities. https://calendly.com/d/zj8x-9f3h/bush-foundation-programs-inquiry?month=2025-03
In order to support big transformation in the region, there is no set limit on grant amounts. In 2021, grant awards ranged from $198,000 to $4,000,000. Please indicate in your application the amount you need to support your idea. The foundation is happy to discuss this with you during your pre-application call with a team member as well.