We also wanted to explore how larger investments in a smaller set of issues could produce stronger and more measureable impact. We wanted our overall work, including our grantmaking, to be more entrepreneurial and less transactional.
Using a Human Centered Design process, the Foundation devoted time throughout 2016 to listen to the diverse concerns, hopes and ideas of North Minneapolis residents. This process helped the Foundation identify its two primary North Minneapolis funding priorities:
- Creating and expanding relevant and engaging learning opportunities for K-12 students. The Foundation is particularly interested in ways to amplify the role of student voice and agency in educational design and decision-making. Learn more about education funding.
- Helping to grow a thriving economy in North Minneapolis by supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses and expanding local ownership opportunities. Learn more about small business funding.
For now and into the foreseeable future, the bulk of our grantmaking will be focused on these two priorities. Our intent is to make fewer, larger grants, while moving solutions to scale, and employing more human capital through greater engagement in the community.