The significant gifts made by Glen and Becky Taylor through the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF) have generated enthusiasm throughout the region — and understandable questions. This Q&A is designed to help explain how the funding structure works, the role of the Mankato Area Foundation (MAF), and why continued support of MAF remains essential.
What exactly did Glen and Becky Taylor donate?
Glen and Becky Taylor generously donated farmland and related assets to the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF). These gifts were made to TFFF, not directly to the Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) or other supported organizations.
Who owns the farmland?
The farmland is owned by the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF). It is farmed by local producers, and the rental income generated from the land provides grant dollars for TFFF’s charitable work.
How does the funding work?
Rental income from the farmland provides the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF) with a long-term, sustainable source of charitable funding. These dollars are then granted by TFFF to support rural communities and related priorities.
Does MAF receive all the money from TFFF distributions?
No. MAF is one of three supported organizations that receive a portion of the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF) funding. MAF does not receive all TFFF dollars, nor does it control all grantmaking decisions. The three supported organizations are:
- Mankato Area Foundation
- Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation
- Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
How is TFFF income distributed?
Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF) distributes funding in two primary ways:
- Direct grants made by the TFFF Board of Directors that align with the geographic scope and charitable purposes of the supported organizations
- Grants through the three supported organizations that deploy funding within their regions in alignment with TFFF’s priorities and pillars
Why is MAF involved?
MAF is involved because of its strong local presence, established relationships, and a deep understanding of local needs. The Taylor Family Farms Foundation partners with MAF and the other supported organizations to ensure funding is directed where it can have the greatest local impact.
How can I apply for the TFFF dollars that MAF does receive?
MAF does not accept grant applications for the dollars received from the Taylor Family Farms Foundation (TFFF). Money to MAF from TFFF is not guaranteed year to year, and what MAF does receive is directed toward the specific pillars and priorities outlined by TFFF. This collaborative model ensures funding reaches the communities and needs identified across southern Minnesota and northwest Iowa.
Can I apply directly to TFFF for grants?
Yes. Grant cycles are announced on the Taylor Family Farms Foundation website.
Does the TFFF partnership replace the need for local giving?
No. Large philanthropic investments like this strengthen the entire region, but ongoing community support remains essential to MAF’s ability to serve local needs. These funds complement our work; they do not replace individual or family giving.
Does the TFFF partnership provide financial support for MAF’s operational expenses?
No. The dollars provided to MAF are utilized for granting purposes, not as a revenue stream for MAF.
Do large philanthropic gifts reduce the need for community donors?
Not at all. Large philanthropic initiatives rely on strong, trusted local partners. MAF plays that role because of sustained community support, not instead of it.
How does donor support strengthen MAF’s ability to participate in partnerships like this?
Community giving – on all levels – maintains relationships, expertise, and capacity that make MAF an effective regional partner. In fact, donor support is critical to our ability to steward larger investments in the community.
What does this mean for my giving or my donor advised fund?
Donor advised funds remain vital. Individual and family donors continue to play a central role in ensuring MAF can serve the region with both stability and agility.
How can I get more information?
MAF is always available to answer questions about how this partnership works and how it benefits the region. Connect with our team here.