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Grants

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NEW! Grants are accepted twice per year with submission deadlines of
March 15 and September 15.

Grants requested by March 15 may be asked to come and present at our May Board Meeting.
A response will be given on or before June 1st.

Grants requested by September 15 may be asked come and present at our November Board Meeting. A response will be given on or before December 1st.

Submit a Grant Application


People for Parks awards grants to Minneapolis Parks and Recreation Board (MPRB), community groups, individuals, community institutions, or park staff to create, expand or improve programs or facilities to enhance opportunities for citizen participation in Minneapolis Parks.

What is funded?
  • Projects or programs that take place on MPRB owned property. Projects on city, county or privately owned land are ineligible for funding.
  • Capital improvement projects that will make a lasting impact to the Minneapolis Park system.
  • Projects or programs that supplement, but don’t replace, MPRB funding. PFP cannot fund projects or programs on MPRB land if the concept is not approved by MPRB.  
  • Projects or programs that increase the use, visibility and enjoyment of Minneapolis parks.

The major criteria to be used to evaluate the grant applications include:
  • Sustainability, including the availability of ongoing operating and maintenance funds if the project requires ongoing support.
  • Overall impact on park users.
  • User population demographics and characteristics
  • Approval of project by MPRB
  • Applicant’s history of successful project implementation
  • Community and neighborhood support

Priority is given to:
  • Park-focused community groups that have a long-term commitment to their neighborhood park.
  • Projects or programs that can demonstrate buy-in from the neighborhood or community (e.g. number of volunteers, matching funds, in-kind contributions, etc.)
  • Projects or programs that engage the neighboring community and invite people to get involved.
  • Geographic diversity – e.g. in parks where P4P has not provided funding in the last three years.
  • Projects or programs that demonstrate good environmental stewardship . e.g. use of Forestry certified wood, recycled content material, etc

What is not funded: 
  • Any project or program that is discriminatory in any way, e.g. excludes park users by race, religion, accessibility, etc.
  • Projects that would replace MPRB maintenance and operations; for example, tree pruning and normal repairs to park properties or facilities are not eligible projects. 
  • Materials that will be sold for profit.
  • Staff time.
  • Refreshments for volunteers or contractors.
  • Expenses incurred prior to grant approval.

Expectations of Grantee: 
  • Perform services in a timely manner (typically funds should be spent within a 12 month timeframe)
  • Stay within budget
  • Acknowledge People for Parks for its contributions through at least two channels (Facebook, Newsletter, Email, Events, etc.)
  • Prepare and submit quarterly progress updates which includes impact report and photos.
  • Prepare and submit a Final Evaluation following the close of the grant period.

How do I receive the grant funds for my project? 
Grant funds are released as expenses are incurred, with the exception of the final 10%, which is released upon receipt of a final report that includes photos. PFP can pay invoices directly to vendors or reimburse your group for purchases made for the project with proper documentation.

​Questions? Email Grants@peopleforparks.net 

Submit a Grant Application

Contact Us

People for Parks                                          
PO Box 24901   
Minneapolis MN 55424                                
​612-927-2750