The Bemidji Area Arts Endowment (BAAE), a fund within the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, has opened its 2025 grant and scholarship round, providing financial support to nonprofits and youth in the greater Bemidji, Minnesota area for projects related to the arts. Applications opened on April 1, 2025, and will close on May 1, 2025.

Grants of up to $1,500 are available to nonprofit organizations located within 30 miles of Bemidji, supporting artistic initiatives that enhance cultural experiences and community engagement. Projects may include performing arts, visual arts, music, and other artistic disciplines that contribute to local enrichment.

The BAAE grant round includes funding from multiple dedicated sources:

Bemidji Area Arts Endowment

Richard and Pam Nelson Family Visual Arts Fund

Patt and Ernie Rall Children’s Performing Arts Fund

John Rabel Memorial Music Fund

In addition to organizational grants, the Everett Wilimek Orchestral String Studies Foundation is offering individual youth grants for children aged 8 to 15 interested in learning the violin, viola, cello, or bass. These awards cover the cost of music lessons and instrument rentals.

Applications must be submitted through the Northwest Minnesota Foundation’s online portal at www.nwmf.org under the Grants section. Submissions will be evaluated by a board of professionals with experience in business and the arts to ensure that funded projects reflect the diversity and creativity of the region.

Award notifications will be sent via email in June 2025, with funding disbursed in July 2025. For questions, applicants can contact Terri Darco, Philanthropy Officer, at terri@nwmf.org.