Grantmaking

Approach:

The Wilson Foundation uses trust-based practices in our approach to grantmaking. These practices currently include:

  • primarily awarding unrestricted grants
  • seeking to be transparent and responsive
  • streamlining processes and paperwork
  • doing our homework and proactively getting to know prospective applicants

As a private foundation in Minnesota, we subscribe to the Principles of Philanthropy. The Wilson Foundation will continue to evolve its approach and practices to be in strategic alignment with the Principles.

Areas of Focus and Priorities:

  • Pathways Out of Poverty
    • Employment training/workforce development programs that lead to high quality, sustainable jobs and career pathways
    • Affordable rental housing and expanded homeownership in order to provide stability and create generational wealth
    • Policy initiatives that increase equity, opportunity and economic prosperity
  • Climate Action
    • Creation and implementation of climate action policy at state and local community levels that lead to effective and economically just outcomes
    • Education and outreach efforts that help accelerate clean energy transition/decarbonization
    • Clean energy workforce development initiatives targeted to underserved communities

Geographic Focus:

  • The Wilson Foundation currently prioritizes funding to organizations and initiatives based in Minnesota which primarily serve individuals and communities within the state.
  • Some grantee partners may also be involved in work that serves the Midwest region and/or advances policies and practices beyond the State of Minnesota.
  • Beginning in 2024, the Foundation anticipates some targeted grantmaking in the Duluth, Minnesota area.

Restrictions:

  • The Wilson Foundation does not provide support to religious organizations for religious purposes.
  • Grants cannot be used to carryout direct lobbying activities for specific legislation but can be used for nonpartisan policy advocacy, policy research and education.
    • If you have questions about the acceptability of a proposed activity, please review Section 4945(e) of the Internal Revenue Code and Treasury Regulations Section 53.4945-2.

Process:

  • The Foundation proactively identifies and invites applications from prospective grantee partners. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.
  • Inquiries to the Foundation are welcome. Please use the Contact Us link on our website and someone will respond to your inquiry.
  • The Foundation uses a slightly modified version of the Minnesota Common Grant Application Form in order to streamline paperwork for applicants.
  • Grant decisions are made by the Foundation’s Board of Directors periodically throughout the year. In 2024, grants are anticipated to be awarded and paid in July and December.