McKnight Awards $2M in Economic Relief Grants
Amid the uncertainty of the last few years, we’ve remained in awe of the fortitude, optimism, and resilience of our nonprofit partners who have found creative ways to adapt and continue to serve the needs of their communities. Today, as inflation rises and the risk of a recession looms, the McKnight Foundation is pleased to announce the award of $2 million in one-time economic relief grant increases to approximately 40 of its grantee partners to help them respond to changing economic conditions.
“From the pandemic to the racial reckoning and the unrest that followed, the last two years remind us of how we must come together, recognize our profound interdependence, and care for our communities,” said Tonya Allen, president. “We’ve watched our partners work harder than ever to innovate, meet the needs of those they serve, and maintain strong, stable organizations—and we want to see that continue.”
Recipients include McKnight’s current partners with a $250,000 or less annual operating budget—many of which are Minnesota arts and cultural organizations and/or organizations run by leaders of color. McKnight will notify grantee partners who will receive the funds, and there is no application process or reporting required.
“We’ve watched our partners work harder than ever to innovate, meet the needs of those they serve, and maintain strong, stable organizations—and we want to see that continue.”
—TONYA ALLEN, PRESIDENT
In recent years, McKnight has taken steps to be more responsive in our funding. From our Covid-19 response grants to the George Floyd Memorial grants, we’ve availed flexible funding designed to help our nonprofit partners stay focused on mission impact. Today, as we all adapt to a new normal and build toward a more equitable future for our region, we know that the impact of the last few years is still felt by our nonprofits, especially those smaller in size that face new challenges amid rising inflation and the ongoing pandemic.
“Nonprofits play a crucial role in our communities, and as funding partners, we must do what we can to ensure they survive—and thrive—through any potential hardship,” said Kara Inae Carlisle, vice president of programs. “McKnight is committed to standing alongside our partners and bolstering their resiliency so they can continue to advance their missions and safely serve their communities, now and into the future.”
We hope to inspire other funders and corporations to step up their support of the community, sustaining their investments and partnership with diverse organizations, especially when it’s needed most.
If you have questions about these one-time economic relief grant increases, please reach out directly to your program contact.
