Apply for open your heart's Community Impact Grant
Eligible agencies are invited to apply for the Community Impact Grant to enhance their capacity to serve those experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. This grant is an opportunity to secure funding for critical infrastructure and service improvements.
Don’t miss the chance to make a significant impact in your community.
2026 deadlines
February 27
Friday, February 27, at 4:00 PM
Applications CLOSED
Application Status Updates: Week of May 04
August 28
Friday, August 28, at 4:00 PM
The application will open Monday, May 11
Application Status Updates: Week of November 16
Deadlines are subject to change; applicants should not wait until the last day to log in and submit their application to avoid technical issues, as late applications will not be accepted. Please subscribe to our emails at www.oyh.org to receive additional information and deadlines.
Eligibility Criteria
Agency Requirements
To qualify for the Community Impact Grant, agencies must primarily serve individuals facing food and housing insecurity in Minnesota. Eligible agencies include those with 501(c)3 status or equivalent tax-exempt recognition.
Eligible Activities
Grants support projects that increase service capacity or enhance service quality, such as facility improvements, educational support, and outreach initiatives focused on individuals, families and youth experiencing food and housing insecurity.
Funding Priorities
Preference is given to agencies with operating budgets of $5 million or less that focus on immediate needs — such as emergency shelters, outreach, and hunger relief — to ensure resources reach those who need them most.
Our Core Services
Emergency Shelter Support
We provide essential funding for emergency shelters to enhance their capacity and improve living conditions for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Food Security Initiatives
Our grants support food shelves and meal programs, ensuring access to nutritious meals for those facing food insecurity across Minnesota.
education and workforce development
We assist programs that address the unique needs of Minnesotans experiencing homelessness, helping them access education and employment services.
Common Inquiries
What types of projects are eligible for funding?
Eligible projects include facility enhancements, outreach supplies, and activities that remove barriers for homeless individuals, such as educational support and transportation.
Who can apply for a Community Impact Grant?
Agencies with 501(c)3 status or equivalent, serving Minnesotans experiencing food and housing insecurity, are eligible to apply. Agencies must also meet specific grant requirements.
How often can an agency apply for a grant?
Agencies are eligible to apply for one Community Impact Grant per calendar year. Umbrella organizations can submit two requests per year for different sites.
What are the funding priorities for the grants?
Funding priorities focus on immediate needs, such as emergency shelter support and food security initiatives, with a preference for projects that increase service capacity and quality.
What expenses are not covered by the grants?
Open Your Heart does not fund operating costs, utilities, office equipment, or salaries. Additionally, food purchases and disaster relief are not covered under this grant.
Can agencies outside Minnesota apply for grants?
No, only agencies located within Minnesota that serve Minnesotans are eligible for funding through our grants.
Are there any restrictions on the use of grant funds?
Yes, funds cannot be used for major capital campaigns, new construction, or projects that do not directly benefit those experiencing hunger and homelessness.
What documentation is required with the grant application?
Applicants must submit financial statements, IRS determination letters, and contractor estimates if applicable, along with a detailed project budget.
How does Open Your Heart ensure transparency in funding?
We maintain transparency by clearly outlining eligible activities, funding priorities, and non-funded expenses, ensuring agencies understand the scope and limitations of our grants.
what is your average grant size?
$7,000
what is your grant reporting criteria?
Grantees must submit the final report and any unused funds to OYH within 45 days of the grant’s completion to comply with OYH grant requirements. Access the grant report in the Community Grant Impact Program using your application credentials. Go to Your Applications → View Award → Post Award – Schedule → Closure Form and submit your report.
Does Open Your Heart provide emergency funding?
Under certain conditions, OYH provides emergency funding to organizations experiencing financial hardship. To be eligible, organizations must demonstrate the financial distress and that the emergency disrupts their operations. Funding is not guaranteed. For organizations requiring emergency funding, please reach out to us at [email protected].
i've applied for funding prior to 2024, do i still need to create a profile?
Yes, OYH began using a new grant portal in 2024. Even if you have submitted an application in the past, you will need to create a new profile, including username and password, when submitting an application.
where can I view my organization’s applications submitted prior to year 2024?
Beginning in 2024, OYH started using a new grant application portal. Applications submitted in 2023 and prior can be accessed HERE.
i need technical SUPPORT
For technical assistance, email [email protected]. For questions regarding priorities, the grant process, etc., email [email protected] or call 612-338-5577.