​The Small Family Foundation Workshop is back for its 13th year!

​Across Minnesota, more than 1,000 small family foundations collectively distribute millions of dollars annually to nonprofit organizations. While these foundations may give less than $2 million per year, many are deeply relationship-driven, highly community-focused, and consistently support organizations making meaningful local impact.

​Yet for many nonprofits, these funders can feel difficult to identify, research, and approach strategically.

​This three-hour live virtual workshop is designed to help nonprofit leaders, grant writers, development staff, and emerging fundraising professionals better understand the landscape of small family foundation funding in Minnesota and how to build stronger, more intentional outreach strategies.

​Led by the Access Philanthropy team, this session will explore:

• ​What small family foundations are currently funding across Minnesota

• ​How these foundations typically operate and make funding decisions

• ​What funders are looking for beyond the proposal itself

• ​Practical first steps for initiating outreach and building relationships

• ​Common mistakes nonprofits make when approaching smaller foundations

• ​How to identify opportunities that align with your organization’s mission, geography, and stage of growth

• ​Strategies for creating long-term connections, not just one-time asks

​This workshop is designed to be practical, approachable, and immediately actionable, whether your organization is new to foundation fundraising or looking to strengthen an existing grants strategy.

​Participants will also receive:

• ​A downloadable and searchable book featuring 100 Minnesota small family foundation profiles

• ​A downloadable copy of the presentation slides and workshop materials

• ​2-week trial access period to the Small Family Foundation funder profile database

​Presenters

​Steve Paprocki, Access Philanthropy President Emeritus

​Steve has spent his entire professional career in philanthropy, serving as a foundation director, fundraiser, trainer, donor consultant, author, researcher, and lobbyist. Drawing on decades of experience and an extensive professional network, Steve helps nonprofits better understand the philanthropic landscape, connect with the right people, and develop thoughtful, relationship-centered fundraising strategies.