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Flexible Fund,
Big Impact

Donor Advised Funds
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Donor Advised Funds are the fastest growing donation vehicle, and for good reason: They’re tax-smart, easy to set up, and accept a variety of asset types. It’s effective giving that empowers you to strengthen your community.

The Benefits

Simple management

We take care of the accounting, investment, and legal services so you can focus on giving.

Tax advantages

Donors are generally eligible to receive a tax deduction in the year they make a gift while retaining the flexibility to recommend grants over time.

PROACTIVE GIVING

We’ll help you support the organizations you already love or help you explore new giving opportunities and resources.

How a Donor Advised Fund Works

1. Establish your fund

Make a tax-deductible donation using cash, stocks, or non-publicly traded assets like business interests or private company stock. Once the contribution is in your account, it can only be used for future grantmaking.

See our guidelines and policies.

2. Build Your fund

Charitable funds grow tax-free until you are ready to recommend grants—which means you may have more to give. Our investment strategy options enable you to choose a path that matches your goals and timeline.

3. Support Your Community

You can recommend grants that can go to any public charity. We’re also here to help you explore pressing local issues, discover unique giving opportunities, and leverage our network to connect with like-minded changemakers.

Testimonials

“We feel like the Minneapolis Foundation is stepping back and really digging into the problems, as opposed to tossing around quick fixes. That’s important to us: that the actions taken are thoughtful and not just reactionary.”
–Aaron Bergad
Read their story
“Education has always been a solid foundation on which to build. It’s hard to focus in school if you’re hungry.”
–Charlie Jones
Read their story

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What makes a Donor Advised Fund at the Minneapolis Foundation unique?

    We have a diverse team with lived and professional experiences that can help you deepen your knowledge of community issues, learn about innovative giving opportunities, and choose investment strategies that fit your goals. As a fund holder, you can tap into our unique offerings such as the Family Philanthropy Resource Center, InvestMPLS initiative, and Minneapolis Foundation events and learning collectives.

    Visit our Family Philanthropy Resource Center Learn about InvestMPLS See events and learning collectives
  • What fees do you charge to administer a Donor Advised Fund?

    You can find details about our fee schedule below.

    See our fee schedule

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    • What kinds of assets can I contribute to a Donor Advised Fund?

    Start a Donor
    Advised Fund

    Our Philanthropic Advisors would love to hear about your charitable goals and help you start your own fund.

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      Contact us Download an application