Name of Foundation: The McKnight Foundation
Location: Minneapolis
Contact Info: www.mcknight.org Phone: (612)-333-4220
Coverage Area: Minnesota
Subject Area: Education and learning, the arts, the environment, youth and children, international efforts, community and region, and neuroscience research.
Assets: $2 billion (2012)
Last Year Total Giving: $85 million (2012)
In a Nutshell: The McKnight foundation was established in 1953 by William L. McKnight, an early leader and eventual CEO of the 3M company, and his wife, Maude McKnight. The foundation was established to address a wide range of issues impacting Minnesotans.
After the death of his wife in 1974, Mr. McKnight appointed his daughter, Virginia McKnight Binger, to lead the foundation. With the help of the executive director, Russell Ewald, Binger began the formal grant making program and established the community based model that continues to guide the foundation today. In 2012, Ted Staryk was elected chair of the board of directors, while the McKnight family continues to be actively involved.
Today, the foundation continues to take a multi issue approach to its work. Within its Education and Learning program area, the foundation funds the Early Literacy and Youthprise initiatives. The Early Literacy program focuses on early childhood education and kindergarten-readiness in the Twin Cities. While the Youthprise program, increases enrichment and leadership opportunities for Minnesota Youth.
Major Programs:
Arts
Education and Learning
International
Mississippi River
Midwest Climate and Energy
MN Initiative Foundations
Neuroscience
Region and Communities
How to Apply: The foundation has a closed grant making process. Proposals are submitted by invitation only. However, if your organization meets the stated funding guidelines, you can call the foundation at 612-333-4220 to discuss your inquiry with a program director. If McKnight’s program staff determines that the Foundation can consider funding, they will provide instructions for submitting a proposal.
News and Grant Activity: