Frequently Asked Questions
The OneMPLS Fund is one of many resources that civic and philanthropic organizations are deploying to support the needs of individuals, nonprofits, and other organizations in Minneapolis-St. Paul and greater Minnesota. Please review the answers below here to better understand the OneMPLS Fund’s purpose and expected grantmaking scope.
I am an individual affected by the COVID-19 situation. Can I apply for assistance from the OneMPLS Fund?
We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic is having and will continue to have a significant impact on individuals and families in Minneapolis-Saint Paul. However, this fund is designed to make grants to 501(c)(3) organizations and groups fiscally sponsored by a nonprofit. It is our goal to move resources as quickly as possible to community-based organizations that are directly supporting the local residents who are most affected by the pandemic.
May I target my donation to a specific organization?
To ensure that we can coordinate and share resources from the OneMPLS Fund as quickly as possible, donors may not restrict their grants to an individual grantee. If you have a specific organization you would like to support, we encourage you to give directly to that organization and suggest providing a general operating grant. If you have a Donor Advised Fund at The Minneapolis Foundation or are interested in establishing one, our Philanthropic Advisors can help you navigate the needs across our community.
Should I give to the OneMPLS Fund instead of making other donations?
No. The OneMPLS Fund is not intended to be the only vehicle to give funds to nonprofits working at the frontlines of the COVID-19 outbreak. We encourage you to give directly to organizations you may have supported in the past or nonprofits you know are addressing needs in your community.
Is there a geographic focus for this fund?
The OneMPLS Fund will prioritize funding for organizations in the seven-county metro area, with a preference for organizations that serve residents in Minneapolis.
Can current grantees apply for funds?
Yes. Current grantees are eligible to apply.
When will you announce funding decisions?
We expect grants from this Fund will be made on a rolling basis, beginning within the next few weeks. We will provide OneMPLS Fund contributors with regular updates about the organizations that receive grants and community needs we are addressing with these resources.
I am part of a private family foundation. Can my foundation support COVID-19 relief efforts through the OneMPLS Fund?
Yes! We welcome other philanthropic entities to join us in this collective giving fund and will keep you updated about how the funds are used. Please contact Jenny Johnson at jjohnson@mplsfoundation.org for details on how to direct a grant to the OneMPLS Fund.
My company is interested in supporting our employees through the COVID-19 pandemic and other potential future hardships. Can The Minneapolis Foundation help my company establish a program?
We have a history of working with corporations and small business to design and facilitate innovative philanthropic programs tailored to each company’s corporate goals. Please contact Russell Betts at rbetts@mplsfoundation.org or Peter Black at pblack@mplsfoundation.org to explore how the Foundation can help your business.
I am a Professional Advisor and would like to help my clients identify ways they can support nonprofit organizations responding to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Can you provide me with information that I can share?
We would be happy to help you and your clients navigate the pressing needs during this unprecedented time. Please contact Steph Donley at sdonley@mplsfoundation.org.
