St. Croix Valley Foundation Opens Grant Opportunities Through Its Local Community Affiliates

Locally-guided grant programs invest in nonprofits, community priorities, and bold ideas that strengthen communities across the Valley.

From youth programs and food shelves to public art, community gathering spaces, and other creative local projects, the St. Croix Valley Foundation's annual grant cycle helps turn community ideas into action.

This year, eight of the St. Croix Valley Foundation's local affiliates will offer Community Grants for local nonprofits, programs, and services, along with Idea Grants that help bring bold, creative community projects to life.

What makes these grants unique is the local leadership behind them. Each affiliate's grant program is guided by volunteer advisory board members who understand the strengths, needs, and opportunities within their community. Their insight helps ensure grant funding reflects local priorities and supports projects with the greatest potential for impact.

"Strong communities are built by people who know and love their communities," said Angie Pilgrim, Vice President of Community Impact at the St. Croix Valley Foundation. "Our affiliate volunteers bring local knowledge, relationships, and insight to the grantmaking process, helping ensure charitable dollars are invested where they can make the greatest difference."

This year’s funding opportunities include:

Community/Affiliate	Type of Grant	Amount Available
Amery Area	Community Grants	$30,000
Chisago Lakes Area	Community Grants	$20,000
Hudson	Spark Idea Grants	$20,000
New Richmond Area	Community Grants	$30,000
Northwest Alliance Community Foundation (Northern Polk & Burnett Counties)	Community Grants	$10,000
River Falls	Big Idea Grants	$25,000
Somerset	Community Grants	$5,000
Stillwater Area	Great Idea Grants	$10,000
Total Amount		$150,000

Applications for all grants opened June 15 and close September 15, 2026.

In 2025, affiliate grant programs awarded 41 grants totaling more than $117,000 to support local nonprofits, creative placemaking projects, youth programs, food access initiatives, mental health efforts, arts organizations, environmental projects, and other community priorities throughout the Valley.

"One of the things I value most about serving on our affiliate advisory board is the opportunity to help invest in the future of our community," said Kathy Kirvida, Chair of the Chisago Lakes Area Community Foundation Advisory Board. "Each year we see inspiring organizations, dedicated volunteers, and creative ideas that make our community stronger. These grants help turn local generosity into local impact."

Organizations are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and application guidelines for their local affiliate community.

Find more information and apply here.

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