RBC Foundation – Community Investment Grants
Workforce Skills, Inclusive Prosperity, and Climate Solutions in the Twin Cities
Organization: RBC Foundation USA
Support Type: Charitable grants
Geographic Focus: Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area only
Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
About the Funder
RBC Foundation USA invests in community-based organizations that help people, places, and the planet thrive. Through its Community Investment Grant Program, the Foundation supports nonprofit partners in the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro area whose work strengthens economic opportunity, advances equity and accessibility, and supports the transition to a net-zero economy.
What This Program Supports
RBC Foundation USA funds programs aligned with three priority focus areas:
Equip People with the Skills for a Thriving Future
Advanced technologies and shifting industries are changing the future of work. RBC Foundation USA supports programs that prepare people—especially those facing barriers—for sustainable, in-demand careers.
Priority activities include:
- Building in-demand skills (e.g., trades, AI and technology, healthcare, sustainability, creative fields)
- Re-skilling and upskilling through education and credential-building
- Mentorships, internships, and work-based learning experiences
- Developing critical skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving
- Supporting youth transitions from school to work
- Helping individuals complete high school or post-secondary education
- Job-specific language learning
- Clear, measurable pathways to sustained employment
Not supported in this area:
- General language learning not tied to job requirements
- Recreational programs without job-readiness outcomes
- Job placements unrelated to a participant’s intended career
- Intern salaries at other for-profit companies
Drive More Inclusive Prosperity in Our Communities
RBC Foundation USA supports organizations addressing affordability, stability, and access in the Twin Cities—either by responding to local needs or addressing systemic challenges.
Priority activities include:
- Food security, housing stability, and access to health services
- Financial confidence-building through education, coaching, and counseling
- Increasing access to public benefits and tax credits
- Physical accessibility upgrades to community spaces, including:
- Ramps, lifts, automated doors, and widened doorways
- Accessible restrooms, kitchens, and workspaces
- Wayfinding signage and tactile walking surface indicators (TSWIs)
- Improved lighting and acoustics
- Accessible outdoor spaces such as trails, playgrounds, or courtyards
- Equipment designed for accessible recreation or cultural experiences
Not supported in this area:
- Large-scale housing development projects
- Land or easement purchases
- Hospital equipment or disease-based research
- General equipment purchases or parking lot paving
- Updates to single-family homes
Support the Transition to a Net-Zero Economy
RBC Foundation USA funds community-based environmental solutions that advance climate mitigation, resilience, and biodiversity while benefiting people and neighborhoods.
Priority activities include:
- Energy efficiency and decarbonization of community buildings
- Nature-based solutions and biodiversity conservation
- Urban green infrastructure and climate resilience projects
- Sustainable transportation and waste reduction initiatives
- Renewable energy installations (e.g., solar panels)
- Energy recovery systems and efficiency upgrades
- Water conservation measures
- Experiential environmental learning tied to stewardship
Not supported in this area:
- For-profit climate or clean technology solutions
- Direct payments to individuals or businesses
- Land or easement acquisition
- Generic education programs without experiential components
- Historic restoration or non-community-use buildings
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a 501(c)(3) public charity for at least three years
- Have a minimum annual operating budget of $100,000
- Be located in and serving the Minneapolis–St. Paul metropolitan area
- Operate in alignment with RBC values
Generally not supported:
- Endowment or memorial campaigns
- Multi-year commitments or startup organizations
- Individuals, political organizations, or private foundations
- Advocacy organizations, chambers of commerce, or trade associations
- Religious or sectarian programs
- Travel-only costs, golf tournaments, or theoretical research
Funding Amounts
RBC Foundation USA does not publish standard grant amounts. Awards vary based on program alignment, scope, and available funding.
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Deadline: June 30, 2026
📩 Funding Decisions: Approximately 90 days after the deadline
Application Process
The RBC Foundation USA grant portal has moved to Blackbaud. Applicants must first create an account to access the 2026 application.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.rbcwealthmanagement.com/en-us/about/community-events/grants
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This grant is a strong fit for Twin Cities nonprofits that:
- Deliver workforce development with clear employment outcomes
- Advance financial stability, accessibility, and community resilience
- Implement practical, community-centered climate solutions
- Are established organizations ready to scale local impact
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
- Review Type: Fixed deadline
- Next Deadline: June 30, 2026
- Best Suited For: Established Minneapolis–St. Paul nonprofits working in workforce development, community stability, accessibility, and climate action
