Public Policy

Advancing policies that strengthen the nonprofit sector and Minnesota communities

MCN and the Minnesota Budget Project policy teams advance public policies that strengthen the nonprofit sector and Minnesota communities through policy development and analysis, and by engaging nonprofits, other organizational partners, and the public to lift up our shared vision for a just, equitable Minnesota.

Our policy work is informed by MCN’s strategic priority on equity and justice.

Advocacy & Public Policy Resources

Nonprofits play a central role in the democratic process by providing a means for individuals to deliberate on public policies and decisions that affect them. At MCN, we are continuously working to provide resources and tools you need to engage in effective advocacy and public policy work at your nonprofit.

Latest

Policy Updates

Nonprofit Resiliency and Recovery Fund

March 22, 2021

MCN, along with key advocacy partners, is proposing to the Legislature and the Walz/Flanagan Administration that the state invest $50M in a Nonprofit Resiliency and Recovery Fund. The goal of this fund would be to provide critical investment, through general operating grants, to nonprofit organizations delivering important services to Minnesotans across the state.

These dollars are by no means certain, and would only serve a portion of the state’s nonprofits. Still, this is an opportunity for state leaders to recognize nonprofits’ ability to effectively identify and address local needs and priorities – especially in response to the pandemic and its challenges. The $50M would come from one-time federal relief funds to the state of Minnesota.

Please support this bill by signing on to a letter to state leaders. While the original deadline has passed, we are accepting signatures on a rolling basis as we continue to use the letter.

If you have questions or comments, please connect with Marie Ellis at mellis@minnesotanonprofits.org or 651-757-3060.




Policy Spotlight


State Grant Reform


Each year the state of Minnesota grants about $500 million to nonprofits to provide essential services. Changes in oversight of state-funded grants to nonprofits continues to be a topic at the Legislature. 

Nonprofits must be included in implementing any and all reform efforts.

Working toward equitable grantmaking

Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)


A state-administered PFML program was signed into law May 2023, and allows nonprofits to be competitive employers, all Minnesotans to take time off to care for themselves and their families, boosts the economy, and advances racial equity.

PFML benefits and premiums start January 1, 2026.

What nonprofits need to know

Nonprofit SEAT Act


Nonprofits have extensive experience and insights that can benefit everyone in a more collaborative government-nonprofit partnership.

The Nonprofit SEAT Act enhances nonprofits' ability to address public challenges and maximize opportunities to advance our mission in every community across the country.

Sign your nonprofit's support





Legislative Successes and Past Campaigns

Since its founding in 1987, MCN has been recognized for exemplary work at the state legislature and as a source of training on relationships and advocacy between nonprofits and government.  The number and subject matter of MCN’s public policy positions has grown over time. Learn more about some of the campaigns and successes over MCN's history of public policy work.