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We seek to support quality programs for school-age children and youth during the out-of-school time in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Direct service guidelines | Intermediary & advocacy funding

Program strategies

In support of out-of-school time programs, we believe that some of the most powerful programs blend traditional enrichment activities with more intentional strategies that respond to children's unique developmental and academic needs. We support:

  • High quality out-of-school time programs. For out-of-school time program requests, there is one deadline each year, and the deadline for 2010 proposals has passed. (You may review archived 2010 guidelines via the link at right.)
  • Intermediaries and advocacy organizations to encourage policy and systemic changes to improve quality, accountability, and accessibility for a comprehensive early childhood education system. Application instructions below.
  • Organizations providing training for adults who work with youth; organizations active in advancing statewide youth-supportive policies; and networks of grantees convening for training and coordination. Application instructions below.

For intermediaries; advocacy organizations; or organizations/networks providing training, mentoring, research, or coordination, the first step in your funding application is to call Christine Ganzlin at 612-333-4220 to discuss your request.

After speaking with Christine, you may submit a two- to four-page letter of inquiry that describes your organization, the proposed project or use of funds, its relation to the goal and strategies above, and the amount of support requested. Please also include your organization’s legal name and tax status.

We will respond within 60 days of receiving your letter, either to decline funding or to share instructions to submit a full proposal.

Deadlines

Inquiry receivedBoard consideration
(pending proposal invitation)

November 15February
February 15May
May 15 August
August 15 November

Eligibility and Types of Support

We provide planning, operating, and project grants. With very few exceptions, to be eligible for a grant, applicants must be classified by the Internal Revenue Service as tax-exempt, nonprofit organizations. We discourage the use of fiscal agents. Units of government may apply for funding for special projects, although we will not fund activities that are traditionally the responsibility of government. We consider capital grants only in exceptional circumstances; please discuss any capital proposal with a program officer before submitting a written request. Among the criteria for capital funding, at least half the total project budget must be raised before applying, and McKnight funding must leverage other support for the project.


Program Resources


Program Staff

Christine Ganzlin
Program Officer

Kevin Overson
Program Administrator