New Report Provides Latest Data and Trends on the State's Philanthropy

MINNEAPOLIS (September 30, 2003)  Charitable giving by Minnesota's foundations and corporations continued to show strong growth in 2001, despite the start of a economic downturn, according to the Minnesota Council on Foundations' latest "Giving in Minnesota" research report. But the state's philanthropy showed some signs of weakness in 2001, including a decline in donations from individuals.

Minnesota's foundations and corporate givers increased their grants to nonprofits by more than 10 percent to a record $920 million between 2000 and 2001 (adjusted for inflation), according to the report. This is higher than the 7.6 percent increase nationwide.

"In 2001, Minnesota's foundations and corporate grantmakers continued their longtime tradition of leading the nation in giving," said Council president Bill King. "Despite a slowing economy, they seem to have dug deeper to continue their strong support for our nonprofits and communities."

But the weakening economy in 2001 took its toll on foundation assets, which declined a record 8.8 percent from the previous year - a possible sign of flat or declining grantmaking in 2002 and 2003. The report also shows that giving by individual Minnesotans declined 3.9 percent to an estimated $3.2 billion in 2001, following a 6.4 percent increase the previous year.

In other report highlights, the share of grant dollars for the arts increased from a record low of 13 percent in 1999 to 15 percent in 2001. Grants to education declined for the first time in the history of the Council's research, dropping 9 percent over two years. The share of 2001 grant dollars going to organizations serving just the Twin Cities - 30 percent - is the lowest on record, although the share of grants to nonprofits in Minnesota remained stable at 69 percent.

The "Giving in Minnesota" Report, 2003 Edition is available for $20. For an order form, visit the Council's Web site at www.mcf.org (select "Resources"), where you can also download a free report summary. Or contact the Council at 612/338-1989, info@mcf.org.

Founded in 1969, the Minnesota Council on Foundations' mission is to strengthen and expand philanthropy. The Council is a regional membership association of grantmakers working to improve the vitality and health of our communities. Council members include private foundations, community and other public foundations, and corporate foundations and giving programs.

CONTACT: David Biemesderfer, vice president of communications and information services, 612/335-3597, dbiemesderfer@mcf.org  

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More Information:

• Highlights: Giving in Minnesota Report, 2003 Edition.
• Download: the summary Giving in Minnesota Report, 2003 Edition (PDF, 4 pages).
• Order: the full Giving in Minnesota Report, 2003 Edition ($20, 70 pages).

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