The Laura Jane Musser Fund, based in Little Falls, Minnesota, is dedicated to enhancing the vibrancy and sustainability of communities in Morrison County, MN. The fund specifically focuses on areas such as arts, children’s programming, education, and music, seeking to support organizations that can demonstrate their commitment to community engagement and organizational sustainability. The mission is to empower local nonprofits and government units to increase access to services and create lasting community impacts through innovative approaches.

The fund provides grants through two distinct programs: the General Operating Support Program and the Small Grants Program. Organizations may not apply for both programs in the same year. The General Operating Support Program is aimed at organizations with annual expenses of $1 million or less. It offers grants up to $10,000 annually for up to three consecutive years. Grantees are expected to demonstrate measurable progress towards goals such as increasing community access, sustainability, and support. After three years of funding, organizations must wait at least one year before reapplying for additional funding.

The Small Grants Program, on the other hand, has no budget size limit for eligible organizations. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for one-time small projects that improve access to services or contribute to organizational sustainability. Priority is given to projects with clear plans and defined needs, especially those that will have a tangible impact on the community’s access to services or organizational growth.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local units of government located in Morrison County, MN, are eligible to apply for funding. Fiscal sponsors are not eligible for this program. Types of projects that will not be funded include capital campaigns, festivals, conferences, advocacy, or funds that will be re-granted. The application process requires organizations to submit a proposal via an online platform, which will be available from February 13 to March 13, 2025. Grant recipients will be notified of funding decisions in July 2025.

Applicants are asked to submit a detailed narrative, including information on the organization’s history, goals, community engagement strategies, sustainability efforts, and expected outcomes. Additionally, the application requires the submission of support letters from community members, evidence of anti-discrimination practices, and financial documents such as budgets, a balance sheet, and the IRS 501(c)(3) status letter. The fund emphasizes the importance of anti-discrimination policies in the grantee organizations.

Organizations that have received grants in the past must report on their progress, particularly regarding their success in increasing community access, sustainability, and support. The fund seeks to fund projects that are innovative and impactful while reinforcing the long-term viability of local organizations.