Community. For Good.
At the Mankato Area Foundation, we work as a knowledgeable and innovative resource that promotes philanthropy and drives transformative action to strengthen our region and improve lives.
For our region, we serve as a grantmaker and collaborative partner. As a resource for nonprofit groups within the Greater Mankato region, we invest in the agencies and organizations working to address our communities' opportunities and challenges.

Grant OpportunitiesWe offer a variety of grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations serving the Greater Mankato Region.
LEARN MORE
Nonprofit DirectoryOur online directory serves as a resource for donors and grantmakers by providing all-encompassing and searchable information about the nonprofit organizations in the region.
LEARN MORE
Nonprofit Funds/ServicesWe partner with local nonprofits to offer a variety of funds and services to help support organizations as they work towards their mission.
LEARN MOREDONOR ADVISED FUNDS
Generosity. For Good.
A Donor Advised Fund is an effective tool for charitable giving that provides benefits similar to a private or family foundation without the hassles. Donor Advised Funds minimize the worries and administrative burdens of grantmaking, so you can put your time and energy into what really matters: making a meaningful impact on the community, organizations and causes you value.
Telling Our Story

COMMUNITY IMPACT
Supporting the Scene and Unseen
It doesn’t take much effort to feel the expansive presence of the arts in Mankato.
Look up near the river, and you’ll see a 135-foot tall mural of children painted on silos by internationally-renowned artist Guido van Helten.
Walk along the streets downtown, and you’ll see awe-inspiring sculptures on every corner, teasing your senses and admittedly leaving you feeling a bit unsatisfied until you complete the entire CityArt Walking Sculpture Tour every year. Read More
News & Press
-
23
Oct
National Estate Planning Week: Insight from local experts
Read moreAs part of National Estate Planning Awareness Week, the Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) hosted Legacy by Design: Philanthropy in Estate Planning, a special event for
-
17
Oct
In the news: JZ Cancer Fund
Read moreThrough meaningful partnerships and ongoing initiatives, the JZ Cancer Fund works to raise awareness, provide comfort and resources, and inspire hope throughout the community.
-
15
Oct
Local generosity sustains a cultural celebration
Read moreFor prominent Mankato artist and community organizer Justin Ek, the lesson learned may be a simple one: Just ask.
-
18
Aug
Letter to the Editor: The Giving for Good Catalog may be closed, but the need is not
Read moreAs the 2025 Giving for Good Catalog has come to a close, I’m reflecting on the incredible generosity shown by our community.
-
13
Aug
Crowns for a cause: A royal benefit for JZ Cancer Fund
Read moreJoin the JZ Cancer Fund on August 24 at The Venue in Mankato for a family event with Once Upon A Party, featuring storybook characters,

