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The McKnight Foundation

Annual Giving
$145.0M
Grant Range
$10K - $0.5M
Decision Time
3mo
0

Quick Stats

  • Annual Giving: $145 million (2024)
  • Success Rate: Not publicly disclosed
  • Decision Time: 3 months
  • Grant Range: $10,000 - $500,000 (typically for organizations); $25,000 (individual artist fellowships)
  • Geographic Focus: Minnesota (Arts & Culture, Vibrant & Equitable Communities), Midwest (Climate & Energy), International (Global Food Systems, Neuroscience)

Contact Details

Website: https://www.mcknight.org/ Phone: 612-333-4220 Email: info@mcknight.org Address: Minneapolis, Minnesota

For specific programs, contact program directors or officers at the main phone number to discuss your inquiry before submitting an application.

Overview

Established in 1953 by William McKnight, one of the early leaders of 3M, and his wife Maude McKnight, The McKnight Foundation is an independent family foundation with approximately $2.6 billion in assets. McKnight advances "a more just, creative, and abundant future where people and the planet thrive" through five major program areas: Arts & Culture, Vibrant & Equitable Communities, Midwest Climate & Energy, Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems, and The McKnight Endowment Fund for Neuroscience. In 2024, McKnight achieved its highest charitable payout in the Foundation's nearly 75-year history, granting over $145 million—exceeding 7% of its endowment. Under President Tonya Allen's leadership since 2021, the foundation has strengthened its commitment to equity, climate action, and community-centered grantmaking. McKnight is governed by a board of up to 12 directors, including both descendants of the founders and community directors.

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

Arts & Culture Program

  • Grant Range: Varies by program type
  • Artist Fellowships: $25,000 unrestricted grants to mid-career artists
  • 2023 Funding: $11 million across 159 grants
  • Focus: Supporting working artists and culture bearers in Minnesota's creative ecosystem
  • Application: Rolling basis through online portal

Vibrant & Equitable Communities Program

  • Grant Range: $10,000 - $500,000+
  • 2023 Funding: $32 million across 142 grants
  • Focus: Building shared power, prosperity, and participation across Minnesota
  • Application: Rolling basis through online portal

Midwest Climate & Energy Program

  • Grant Range: $10,000 - $5,000,000+ (major initiatives)
  • Geographic Focus: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa (open applications); Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Missouri (invite-only)
  • Focus: Dramatically cutting greenhouse gas emissions and advancing equitable clean energy transition
  • Key Strategies: Transforming energy systems, decarbonizing transportation and buildings, supporting working lands, strengthening democratic participation
  • Application: Rolling basis through online portal

Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems

  • Grant Range: Varies
  • Geographic Focus: U.S., Africa, and Latin America
  • Focus: Farmer-centered agroecological research, action, and influence
  • Application: Annual cycle (typically March - May application period)

The McKnight Endowment Fund for Neuroscience

  • Neurobiology of Brain Disorders Awards: $100,000 per year for three years (up to four awards annually)
  • Scholar Awards: Supporting early-career neuroscientists
  • Technology Awards: $600,000 total annually for technological innovations
  • Focus: International neuroscience research
  • Application: Annual cycle with specific deadlines by program

Minnesota Initiative Foundations

  • Six independent regional foundations created by McKnight in 1986
  • Serve Greater Minnesota (regions outside the metropolitan area)
  • McKnight has invested $328 million; foundations have granted $382.6 million

Priority Areas

Arts & Culture:

  • Working artists and culture bearers in Minnesota
  • Organizations led by and serving Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities
  • Creative ecosystem infrastructure
  • General operating support for arts organizations

Vibrant & Equitable Communities:

  • Racial and economic equity in Minnesota
  • Community organizing and grassroots leadership
  • Policy advocacy to improve systems
  • Community wealth building and economic justice
  • Youth and civic engagement

Midwest Climate & Energy:

  • Clean energy transition and grid transformation
  • Transportation electrification
  • Building decarbonization
  • Climate-smart agriculture and working lands
  • Environmental justice and equitable climate action
  • Democratic participation in climate policy

Global Food Systems:

  • Smallholder farmer resilience
  • Agroecological research and practices
  • Food sovereignty and security
  • Climate-resilient agriculture in Africa and Latin America

Neuroscience:

  • Understanding brain function and disorders
  • Innovative research methodologies
  • Neurological and psychiatric disease research
  • Early-career scientist development

What They Don't Fund

  • Basic social services (food shelves, case management, emergency shelter)
  • Direct service provision
  • Projects outside their stated program areas
  • Attempts to influence specific pending or proposed legislation, including referenda, local ordinances, and resolutions
  • Activities that are traditionally the sole responsibility of government (with some exceptions for unique programs)
  • Grants to individuals (except artist fellowships)
  • Organizations not classified as tax-exempt nonprofits (with limited exceptions for government entities and Tribal Nations)

Governance and Leadership

President: Tonya Allen (joined March 2021)

Tonya Allen became president of McKnight in 2021 after serving as president and CEO of The Skillman Foundation in Detroit. Under her leadership, McKnight achieved its highest grantmaking payout in 2024 ($145 million, exceeding 7% of endowment). Allen is co-chair of the President's Council on Impact Investing and serves on numerous boards including the GHR Foundation, Women Presidents Organization Minnesota, and Greater MSP. She previously served as a program officer at the Charles Stewart Mott and Thompson McCully foundations.

On increased giving, Allen has stated: "In 2023 McKnight's Board approved an increase of $200 million for grantmaking... 2024 was the highest grantmaking payout in the Foundation's nearly 75-year history with our charitable payout exceeding 7 percent of our endowment."

Board of Directors:

McKnight is governed by a board of up to 12 directors including both descendants of the founders and community directors.

  • Board Chair: Ted Staryk
  • Recent Addition (2024): Duchesne Drew, Senior Vice President of American Public Media Group and President of Minnesota Public Radio

The board includes members with expertise in finance, community development, arts, climate action, and philanthropy.

Former President: Kate Wolford served as president from 2006-2019, leading the foundation for 13 years. During her tenure, she spearheaded a $200 million commitment to impact investing and developed the Foundation's climate mitigation and sustainability efforts.

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

McKnight has streamlined its application process effective October 3, 2022:

  1. Familiarize yourself with McKnight's programs and specific strategies through their website
  2. Call program staff at 612-333-4220 to discuss your inquiry with a program director or officer
  3. Submit one-step application through online portal if encouraged by staff
  4. Rolling deadlines - applications accepted year-round (365 days per year)

Important Notes:

  • No initial inquiry required (one-step application)
  • Applications simplified to focus on core essentials
  • For neuroscience awards and some other programs, specific annual deadlines apply
  • Submit by September 1 if funding in the current calendar year is critical (Q4 applications may experience delays)
  • Program-specific guidelines and deadlines vary; consult individual program pages

Eligibility: With very few exceptions, applicants must be classified by the IRS as tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations. Government entities, including Tribal Nations, may apply for unique programs or projects.

Decision Timeline

  • Standard turnaround: 3 months from application submission to decision and payment (if approved)
  • Fourth quarter applications: May take additional time beyond 3 months
  • Notification: Directly from program staff
  • Payment: Issued upon approval if no further requirements needed

Success Rates

Success rates are not publicly disclosed by the foundation. However, according to grantee feedback: "Proposals submitted AFTER talking with staff (and being encouraged to apply) have a high percentage of getting funded."

The foundation makes approximately 500 grants per year across all programs. In 2023, they awarded 142 grants in Vibrant & Equitable Communities and 159 grants in Arts & Culture.

Reapplication Policy

Reapplication policies vary by program:

  • Neurobiology of Brain Disorders Award: Applicants must wait at least one year before reapplying after two unsuccessful applications
  • Artist Fellowships: Cannot have received a McKnight Artist Fellowship within any artistic discipline in the last five years
  • General grant programs: No specific waiting period disclosed; applicants are encouraged to stay in contact with program staff and reapply when appropriate

Contact program staff directly for specific reapplication guidance for your program area.

Application Success Factors

Direct Advice from the Foundation

From McKnight's guidance to applicants:

  • "Start by familiarizing yourself with McKnight's varied programs and their specific strategies and grantmaking criteria"
  • "Call (612) 333-4220 to discuss your inquiry with a program director or program officer"
  • "If McKnight's program staff determines the Foundation can consider funding, they will provide instructions for submitting a proposal"
  • Submit by September 1 if funding in current calendar year is critical

From President Tonya Allen on the Foundation's approach: The foundation is committed to "in proximity with partners"—staying close to people and planet through grantmaking that centers community knowledge and grassroots solutions.

Insights from Funded Organizations

According to grantee reviews on GrantAdvisor:

  • "If there seems to be a fit, reach out to them - the team and program officers are extremely helpful and forthcoming"
  • "Staff is trained to be responsive, with applicants never waiting too long for a call back"
  • "Staff provides additional clarity on eligibility beyond what's in the guidelines"
  • "Proposals submitted AFTER talking with staff (and being encouraged to apply) have a high percentage of getting funded"

Recent Funded Projects (Examples)

Arts & Culture:

  • Cowles Center for Dance and Performing Arts (infrastructure support)
  • Ananya Dance Theatre (supporting work by femmes and women of color)
  • Multiple artist fellowships at $25,000 each

Vibrant & Equitable Communities:

  • Little Mekong Market Cooperative and incubator ($100,000+) for microbusiness creation
  • Arise Community Credit Union (working capital for Minnesota's first Black-led community credit union)
  • Minnesota Compass (data profiles and mapping tools for equity research)
  • Project Optimist ($100,000 for journalism work)

Midwest Climate & Energy:

  • Energy Foundation ($20 million over two years for Midwest clean energy policies)
  • RE-AMP ($5 million over two years for regional climate network)
  • Minneapolis Climate Action and Racial Equity Fund (multiple grants)

Global Food Systems:

  • Agroecological research projects in Africa and Latin America
  • Farmer-centered research initiatives
  • Food sovereignty and climate resilience programs

Language and Terminology

McKnight uses specific framing that reflects their values:

  • "Vibrant and equitable" (not just diverse or inclusive)
  • "Culture bearers" alongside artists
  • "People and planet thrive" (integrated approach)
  • "Shared power, prosperity, and participation"
  • "Proximity to partners"
  • "Community-centered" and "grassroots" solutions
  • "Bold and urgent action" on climate
  • "Equitable transition" in energy systems

Tips for Standing Out

  1. Engage program staff early: The foundation strongly encourages phone conversations before applying. This is the most critical success factor.

  2. Demonstrate systems-change approach: McKnight funds organizations working to shift policies, practices, and institutions, not just direct services.

  3. Show equity integration: Demonstrate how racial and economic equity is central to your work, particularly in Minnesota-focused programs.

  4. Align with specific strategies: Each program has defined strategies—align your proposal clearly with these frameworks.

  5. Emphasize community knowledge: Show how your work is informed by and accountable to the communities you serve.

  6. Consider general operating support: McKnight values unrestricted support that allows organizations to be responsive and sustainable.

  7. Partner and collaborate: McKnight values collaborative approaches and often funds network organizations and coalitions.

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

  • Talk to program staff first: This is the single most important step. Calling 612-333-4220 to discuss your project before applying dramatically increases success rates according to grantees.

  • Know your geography: Minnesota organizations have the broadest access across programs. Midwest organizations (WI, IA) can apply for Climate & Energy. Other programs are more selective or invite-only outside these regions.

  • Systems change over direct services: McKnight does not fund basic social services or direct service provision. Focus on advocacy, organizing, policy change, and capacity building.

  • Rolling applications mean year-round access: You can apply anytime, but avoid Q4 if you need funding quickly. Aim for September 1 deadline for same-year funding.

  • Three-month timeline is reliable: Plan for a 3-month decision process, which is faster than many foundations of similar size.

  • Equity must be central, not peripheral: For Minnesota programs especially, demonstrate how racial and economic equity is embedded in your mission and approach.

  • $145M in annual giving creates opportunities: As one of Minnesota's largest foundations with increasing grantmaking, there are substantial opportunities for aligned organizations—but competition remains strong.

References

  1. McKnight Foundation Official Website - Homepage. https://www.mcknight.org/ (Accessed November 2024)

  2. McKnight Foundation - Grants Information. https://www.mcknight.org/grants/ (Accessed November 2024)

  3. McKnight Foundation - For Grantseekers. https://www.mcknight.org/grants/for-grant-seekers/ (Accessed November 2024)

  4. McKnight Foundation - Funding FAQ. https://www.mcknight.org/grants/funding-faq/ (Accessed November 2024)

  5. McKnight Foundation - Arts & Culture Program. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/arts-culture/ (Accessed November 2024)

  6. McKnight Foundation - Vibrant & Equitable Communities Program. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/vibrant-and-equitable-communities/ (Accessed November 2024)

  7. McKnight Foundation - Midwest Climate & Energy Program. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/midwest-climate-energy/ (Accessed November 2024)

  8. McKnight Foundation - Global Collaboration for Resilient Food Systems. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/global-foods/ (Accessed November 2024)

  9. McKnight Foundation - The McKnight Endowment Fund for Neuroscience. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/the-mcknight-endowment-fund-for-neuroscience/ (Accessed November 2024)

  10. "Tonya Allen Joins McKnight as President." McKnight Foundation, March 2021. https://www.mcknight.org/news-ideas/tonya-allen-joins-mcknight-as-president/ (Accessed November 2024)

  11. "Why McKnight Increased Our Giving, and Why We're Speaking Up About It." McKnight Foundation. https://www.mcknight.org/news-ideas/increased-giving-speaking-up/ (Accessed November 2024)

  12. McKnight Foundation - Financials. https://www.mcknight.org/about/financials/ (Accessed November 2024)

  13. "Streamlining Grantmaking at McKnight." McKnight Foundation, October 2022. https://www.mcknight.org/news-ideas/resource/streamlining-grantmaking-at-mcknight/ (Accessed November 2024)

  14. McKnight Foundation - Staff & Board. https://www.mcknight.org/about/staff-board/ (Accessed November 2024)

  15. McKnight Foundation - Minnesota Initiative Foundations. https://www.mcknight.org/programs/minnesota-initiative-foundations/ (Accessed November 2024)

  16. "In Proximity with Partners: McKnight's Commitment to Stay Close to People and Planet." McKnight Foundation. https://www.mcknight.org/news-ideas/in-proximity-with-partners-mcknights-commitment-to-stay-close-to-people-and-planet/ (Accessed November 2024)

  17. Inside Philanthropy - McKnight Foundation Profile. https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/find-a-grant/grants-m/mcknight-foundation (Accessed November 2024)

  18. ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer - McKnight Foundation (EIN: 41-0754835). https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/410754835 (Accessed November 2024)

  19. GrantAdvisor - McKnight Foundation Reviews. https://grantadvisor.org/profile.php?ein=41-0754835 (Accessed November 2024)

  20. "Project Optimist receives $100K grant from McKnight Foundation." Project Optimist, 2024. https://www.projectoptimist.us/project-optimist-receives-100k-grant-from-mcknight-foundation/ (Accessed November 2024)

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