News Release: McKnight approves over $6.8 million in first quarter of 2009, including $1 million to support artists and arts participa
The McKnight Foundation awarded 172 grants totaling $19,287,043 in its fourth-quarter 2008 grantmaking. Grant totals and representative grants are listed by program areas below.
The McKnight Foundation awarded 37 grants totaling $6,833,000 in its first-quarter 2009 grantmaking. Grant totals and representative grants are listed by program areas below.
Of the $6.8 million total approved, over $1 million went to eight Twin Cities organizations working to improve the quality of the arts in Minnesota and to improve access to the arts for all Minnesotans. Among them, The St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, the nation's only full-time professional chamber orchestra, received $160,000 over two years in general operating support; The Cedar Cultural Center of Minneapolis received $90,000 over two years to support its continuing role as the premier regional presenter of world, folk and traditional music; In the Heart of the Beast, also of Minneapolis, received $90,000 over two years for its internationally renowned puppet and mask theatrical work; and the Soap Factory, a Minneapolis-based visual arts exhibition site focusing on emerging artists, received $80,000 over two years.
"These unique and dedicated organizations create a snapshot of the incredible breadth of arts activity in our state," says Robert J. Struyk, McKnight's board chair. "Through their efforts, they also give life to McKnight's approach to maintaining a robust arts ecology — supporting the economic and creative vitality of Minnesota's professional artists, while facilitating active participation and citizen engagement."
ABOUT THE MCKNIGHT FOUNDATION
The McKnight Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life for present and future generations through grantmaking, coalition-building, and encouragement of strategic policy reform. Founded in 1953 and independently endowed by William and Maude McKnight, the Minnesota-based Foundation has assets of approximately $1.6 billion and granted about $99 million in 2008.