The C.H. Robinson Foundation
Discover the ways we support our communities—and the world.
C.H. Robinson Foundation frequently asked questions
The C.H. Robinson Foundation helps strengthen our community—from the greater metropolitan area of Minneapolis-St. Paul, to across the globe. Learn about our focus areas and how to submit a letter of enquiry.
Q: What are the Foundation focus areas?
We provide funding in four grant programme areas:
- Strategic industry grants that help the supply chain and logistics industry thrive
- Diversity, equity and inclusion grants that foster equal opportunities and promote inclusivity
- Twin Cities grants that strengthen our hometown in Minneapolis-Saint Paul
- Employee-driven philanthropy through Robinson Cares, our signature giving and volunteer programme
Q: What are the eligibility requirements?
In addition to alignment with the focus areas listed above, your organisation must be a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organisation, war veterans post or organisation, cemetery company or governmental unit.
We do not fund:
- Organisations that are political or religious in nature—grants to organisations with religious affiliation may be considered on an exception basis, but only if the grant will be used for non-religious purposes1
- Core K-12 education curriculum in schools (public, private or charter) 2
- Individuals or crowdsourced fundraising for individuals (GoFundMe etc.)
- Annual fundraisers or event sponsorships
- Sporting teams or events
Q: How do I apply?
We use Grants Connect, a YourCause grants management portal. While the application process may differ by programme, applicants can expect a streamlined process designed to minimise effort for non-profit staff. The process is outlined below.
- Eligible applicants will be provided with a link to access the portal.
- You will log in to an existing profile or create an organisation profile if this is your first application.
- Complete eligibility form.
- Complete letter of enquiry.
Eligible applicants will be notified of the status of the letter of enquiry and, if approved, will be invited to submit a complete grant application.
For support with Grants Connect, please contact [email protected].
Additional resources for applicants: Applicant Portal Help Centre | Blackbaud.com
Q: What is the grant cycle and timeline?
Grant cycles fluctuate annually. Refer to this page for updates.
| Grant programme | Timeline | Letter of intent (LOI) due | Application due | Notification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Twin Cities Grants | April—August | April 1 | 20 May | August |
| DEI Grants | July—September | 1 July | 12 August | September |
| Strategic Industry Grants | August—October | 5 August | 8 September | October |
Q: What is the typical grant award?
While grant amounts vary, the range of support for Twin Cities grants is $5,000—$30,000 USD. The average amount is $11,500 USD.
Q: What are the reporting requirements?
We ask for a brief report on the use of funds, including:
- Progress toward grant deliverables as defined in the previous application
- Status update on relevant organisational developments
- Programme outputs, outcomes and impact to community and people served
- Key learnings
Q: How is the Foundation governed?
Established in 2005, the C.H. Robinson Foundation is a Minnesota non-profit corporation as described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation is funded by C.H. Robinson and creates a long-term resource for giving back to our communities through the support of other Section 501(c)(3) non-profit organisations. The budget is determined and approved by the Foundation board of directors, led by Rachel Schwalbach, Vice President, Environmental, Social & Governance and President of the C.H. Robinson Foundation. We work with a trust company that provides checks and balances while ensuring compliance with Internal Revenue Service guidelines and corporate tax law.