Investing in a Vibrant
East Metro Region
Strengthening the quality of life in Saint Paul and the East Metro for more than 75 years.
Investing in a Vibrant
East Metro Region
Strengthening the quality of life in Saint Paul and the East Metro for more than 75 years.
Investing in a Vibrant
East Metro Region
Strengthening the quality of life in Saint Paul and the East Metro for more than 75 years.
Who We Are
Since 1946, F. R. Bigelow Foundation has invested in nonprofits, programs and initiatives that strengthen East Metro neighborhoods and downtown Saint Paul, while enhancing quality of life.
Our Mission
F. R. Bigelow Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for all in the greater Saint Paul area, fostering a vibrant East Metro region.
The Foundation supports nonprofits through partnering, collaborating and investing in opportunities that seek to achieve racially and economically equitable outcomes in the areas of arts & culture, community and economic development, education and youth development, health, housing and human services.
Reimagining Our Grant Program
Throughout 2024, we engaged in a community-informed process to redesign our application-based grant program.
On November 18, 2024, we announced new grant application processes and updated funding priorities that will take effect in 2026. To create the capacity our staff needs to operationalize these changes, the Foundation will implement transitional grant rounds in 2025. For 2025, organizations that applied for and/or received grants in 2022, 2023 or 2024 may be invited to apply for a transitional grant.
For 2026 and beyond, we expect that the new application processes and grant guidelines will be available in the second half of 2025, with the first grants made under the new processes in 2026.
View the grant redesign hub on the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation website for more about our approach and answers to FAQs about the grant reimagining.
Resources for Grant Applicants
Grant Resources
Grant resources include key dates, application questions and instructions on how to register for and use GranteeView, our grant application portal.
Grants Team
Before applying, interested applicants are encouraged to email a member of our Grants Team to ensure that the grant program fits your needs.
Top Stories
Celebrating a Legacy of Over 75 Years
F. R. Bigelow Foundation stands as a pillar of community empowerment in the East Metro. As we look back on our journey, we also set our sights on an even brighter future.
Foundations Announce 2024 First Round Grants
Grants will provide funding resources for community organizations that provide critical resources to Minnesotans across the state.
Investing In Community Good
We recently sat down with Board Chair Ambar Cristina Hanson to review some of the highlights of 2023 and her hopes for 2024 and beyond.
Our Impact
268
Grants Given in 2023
Supporting housing, human services, community development and more
$8.5M
Dollars Granted in 2023
Providing general operating, program and some capital support for East Metro nonprofits
$10.8M
in Mission Related Investing as of December 2023
Our portfolio includes investments that generate a positive social impact
Nonprofits We Fund
We are proud to invest in community-led solutions and partner with nonprofit organizations doing incredible work in the East Metro.