The funder's mission focuses on addressing important community needs in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations within that geography. The mission is achieved by partnering with public and philanthropic organizations to increase innovation, leverage significant partnerships, and quickly respond to emergency situations, thereby attracting additional resources to the region.
The Bush Prize celebrates organizations highly valued within their communities for their successful community problem-solving track record. It offers grants that are flexible, allowing recipients to use the funds to build reserves, test new big ideas, or support ongoing positive work in any way deemed most effective. Grant amounts can reach up to 25% of an organization’s most recent fiscal year expenses, with a maximum of $500,000. The Prize aims to recognize and support extraordinary organizations that work inclusively and in partnership with others, fostering a culture of innovation and generating innovative solutions to community challenges.