Who We Help

Since 1980 we have been partnering with dynamic, innovative, and visionary nonprofit leaders throughout Minnesota and its adjacent communities. With a clear vision for their organization's future, they needed an ally who could help provide financial support and guidance. At Nonprofits Assistance Fund, we believe in your vision and have the resources to help you realize it.

A partnership with Nonprofits Assistance Fund allows you to focus your energy on achieving your goals and serving others, rather than worrying about your organization's financial situation. We're part of the nonprofit community and we understand the unique issues nonprofits face. By building collaborative partnerships, we are able to provide flexible financial assistance and support to nonprofits as building a brighter future.

For more information on how a partnership with Nonprofits Assistance Fund can help you achieve your organization’s goals, learn about our work with organizations in different nonprofit fields:

In our 28 year history, we have worked with more than 1600 nonprofits and provided $56 million in loans to help them realize their visions. And at Nonprofits Assistance Fund, it's more than a loan. Our staff are available to offer insight, partnership, and strategic guidance to nonprofits before, during, and after the life of the loan. And our financial management workshops, resources, and network lunches are all designed to help nonprofit staff and leaders implement healthy financial practices at their organizations.

Featured Story

Realizing a Debt-Free Future - Penumbra Theatre

“Nonprofits Assistance Fund never judged us, they never meddled or managed; they just helped us through it." Chris Widdess, Managing Director of Penumbra Theatre.

Penumbra Theatre in Saint Paul, MN is one of the country’s preeminent arts organizations rooted in the African American experience. Founded in 1976 by Lou Bellamy, Penumbra has received national acclaim for its artistic vision, groundbreaking productions, the community impact of its education and outreach activities, and its commitment to nurturing artistic talent. Financially, though, Penumbra’s progress has been rough and unstable. In 2003 the board recommitted to Penumbra’s original mission and determined to pay off the $600,000 in accumulated debts. When managing director Chris Widdess joined the theatre in 2004, the organization’s future and long-term viability remained uncertain, although the organization was working to towards short-term sustainability. To make this happen, Chris was given an enormous task – eliminate the remaining $400,000 in debts over the next three years.

To learn how Penumbra realized its vision, continue reading Realizing a Debt-Free Future.

For more information on how a partnership with Nonprofits Assistance Fund can help you achieve your organization’s goals, please explore these stories of visions realized.