Knife River – Community Giving & Charitable Support

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Donations, Sponsorships & Support for Safety, Workforce Development, Community Infrastructure & Local Nonprofits

Organization: Knife River

About the Funder

Knife River is a major U.S. construction materials producer and heavy civil contractor with a presence across many states. Through its Community Giving efforts, Knife River invests in organizations and initiatives that strengthen the communities where its employees live and work. The company prioritizes support for programs advancing education, workforce development, safety, community infrastructure, and overall community well-being.

Knife River’s approach focuses on impactful giving that aligns with local needs, fosters long-term community success, and enhances quality of life through partnerships with nonprofits, schools, and civic organizations.

What This Program Funds

Knife River provides cash donations, event sponsorships, community investments, and strategic partnerships for community initiatives aligned with its giving priorities.

Primary Areas of Support

Education & Workforce Development
Support for programs that enhance learning opportunities, career pathways, trades training, internships, apprenticeship programs, and workforce readiness—especially as they relate to construction, engineering, and skilled trades.
Community Safety & Emergency Services
Funding for first responders, volunteer fire departments, EMS training, safety programs, public safety education, and equipment support.
Community Infrastructure & Quality of Life
Support for local infrastructure improvements, public spaces, parks, community centers, and other projects that strengthen neighborhoods.
Basic Needs & Human Services
Assistance for food access, shelter and housing programs, health and wellness initiatives, and services supporting families in need.
Community Events & Local Civic Activities
Sponsorships for community celebrations, charity events, fundraisers, and activities that bring neighborhoods together.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants typically include:

501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
Schools, educational programs, and workforce training providers
First responder and public safety organizations
Community groups and civic associations
Local agencies serving residents in Knife River’s operational communities

Knife River generally does not fund:

Individuals
Political campaigns or lobbying
Organizations outside its service footprint
For-profit entities

Funding Amounts

Knife River does not publish standard award ranges.
Support amounts vary based on:

Program or project scope
Community impact and reach
Alignment with Knife River giving priorities
Available sponsorship budget

Both small grants/donations and larger strategic sponsorships may be awarded depending on need and alignment.

Deadline

Requests are accepted year-round.
Applicants should plan to submit requests at least 60 days before a planned event or program start date.

Geographic Focus

Knife River operates in many states across the U.S., including major activity in:

Western and Southwestern states
Midwest and Plains regions
Mountain states
Southern states
Eastern construction markets

Funding is intended for communities where Knife River has operations, employees, or project activity.

Application Process

To request support from Knife River:

Visit the Knife River How We Do It – Give page
Review community giving focus areas
Complete the online donation/sponsorship request form
Provide:
- Organization name & nonprofit status
- Program/project description
- Community impact and outcomes
- Requested support amount
- Location(s) served
Submit the request for review by Knife River’s community engagement team

Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit

Ideal for nonprofits and community organizations that:

Support workforce development or trades training
Serve first responders and public safety needs
Improve quality of life through community infrastructure or basic needs services
Provide educational enrichment or career readiness
Host community events or fundraisers that strengthen local engagement

This is a solid opportunity for schools, human service agencies, workforce programs, public safety groups, and community development organizations.

Apply here: Link to Application