Northland Foundation
The Northland Foundation serves seven Northeast Minnesota counties and parts of five Native nations, providing grants, loans, and various programs to support local communities, businesses, and families.
Geographic Reach
The Northland Foundation serves seven counties in Northeast Minnesota: Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis. Additionally, it extends its reach to all or parts of five Native nations: Bois Forte Band of Chippewa, Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe (District I), and Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe (District II). The foundation has extensive geographic coverage, focusing on both county and Native nation communities within the region.
Funding and Financial Support
Since its inception, the Northland Foundation has raised $150 million to benefit the region. The foundation has allocated $56 million in grant funds and invested $75 million in local businesses. Key programs include the Promise Act Program, offering competitive grants up to $50,000 for eligible businesses and nonprofits, and the Maada’ookiing Grant Program, which provides up to $2,500 for Native American-led projects. The Youth in Philanthropy Grants support school or community projects led by children and youth with grants up to $1,000.
Services for Businesses and Nonprofits
The foundation supports small businesses with loans, grants, and consulting services. It is a certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) and hosts the region’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC), providing free consulting services to entrepreneurs. The Northland Foundation also offers Kiva loan assistance, aimed at helping small businesses seeking micro-loans through Kiva. These services are part of its broader mission to foster economic growth and community development.
Child and Family Support Programs
The Northland Foundation supports families through a variety of initiatives. The Early Learning Scholarships help families with young children afford high-quality child care and early learning programs. The Thrive Initiative focuses on early childhood mental health and resources. In addition, the Early Childhood Initiative supports community coalitions to strengthen local resources for young children and families. The Community Resource Hub is another pivotal program, helping families with young children find necessary services and supports.
Initiatives and Community Engagement
The Northland Foundation plays a significant role in community engagement through various programs and initiatives. Its AGE to age program has been connecting generations since 2008, fostering intergenerational relationships. The foundation regularly brings people together to share ideas and collaborate, creating a network of support across communities. Special grant opportunities for nonprofits and businesses, such as the Greater St. Louis County Child Care Business Grants, further illustrate its commitment to community development and support.