CHS – Backyard Giving Grants (Twin Cities)
Up to $5,000 for Community Events, Food Access & Ag Education
Organization: CHS Inc.
Support Type: Community grants (Backyard Giving Grants)
Funding Amount: Up to $5,000
Geographic Focus: Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Washington Counties (Minnesota)
Spring Deadline: April 30
About the Program
CHS offers Backyard Giving Grants to support nonprofits located near its headquarters in the Twin Cities. With more than 1,000 employees based in the region, CHS prioritizes investments that strengthen the metro area where its employees live and work.
These grants support events and initiatives that bring the community together, educate youth about agriculture, or increase access to food and housing stability.
What This Program Supports
Eligible organizations may apply for up to $5,000 to support:
- Community-building events
- Agricultural education for youth
- Access to healthy and affordable food
- Safe and stable housing initiatives
Examples of Supported Projects
- Local food shelves
- Housing support programs for women and children
- Fundraising dinners and community galas
- Agricultural education programs for urban youth
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) or related charitable organization
- Serve one or more of the following Minnesota counties:
- Dakota
- Hennepin
- Ramsey
- Washington
Organizations outside these counties will not be considered.
Exclusions
The Backyard Giving Grant program does not support:
- Sports teams or athletic-related requests
- Religious-affiliated groups
- Medical or disease-related causes
- Requests benefiting specific individuals
Application Timeline
CHS accepts applications twice per year:
📅 Spring Cycle: March 1 – April 30
📅 Fall Cycle: October 1 – November 30
The current spring deadline is April 30.
Funding Frequency
To ensure equitable support across the Twin Cities, organizations may receive funding once every two years.
For example, an organization awarded funding in Spring 2025 would not be eligible again until Spring 2027.
Application Process
Eligible nonprofits must apply during the designated application window and demonstrate alignment with CHS priorities, including:
- Bringing the community together
- Educating youth about agriculture
- Improving access to healthy food
- Supporting safe and stable housing
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.chsinc.com/stewardship/twin-cities-funding
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is ideal for Twin Cities nonprofits that:
- Host community-focused events
- Provide food security or housing assistance
- Offer agricultural education programming
- Serve residents in Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, or Washington counties
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Biannual
Spring Deadline: April 30
Funding Amount: Up to $5,000
Best Suited For: Twin Cities-based nonprofits focused on food access, housing, agriculture education, and community engagement
