3M Grant Guidelines

3M’s Giving Focus Areas & Grant Cycles

3M strives to maximize our social impact within our communities and support a culture of service among our people. To do this, 3Mgives partners with leading organizations that are aligned to our global footprint and have proven track records for making a difference in our three areas of focus:
- Education – 3M supports initiatives that advance equitable outcomes in STEM and business for under-represented and under-resourced populations. Our goal is to help build a diverse pipeline of global talent by increasing student interest and achievement in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics).
  
  Education Grant Cycles:
  
  K-12 Education: April to June
  
  Higher Education: July to September
- Community – 3M thrives to build inclusiveness, diversity and vibrancy in 3M communities. This is accomplished by supporting programs that assure access to basic needs, prepare youth for life-long success, increase access to quality and diverse arts opportunities, and contribute to global humanitarian relief efforts.
  
  Community Grant Cycle:
  
  August – November
- Environment – 3M invests in environmental initiatives that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship in the communities where we operate. We are committed to supporting organizations focused on conservation and improving air and water quality. 3M also supports quality environmental learning activities for students.
  
  Environment Grant Cycle:
  
  February – April

Criteria

In addition to aligning with 3M’s focus areas and strategies, organizations must meet the following criteria and must serve a 3M Community. See our 3M locations both in the U.S. and globally (PDF, 113KB).

The following organizations are not eligible for support:
Individuals

For-profit

Disease-related

Government agencies

Hospitals, clinics or nursing homes

Treatment centers or hospice programs

Religious, fraternal or social
The following activities are not eligible for support:
Athletics

Advocacy and lobbying efforts to influence legislation

Conferences, seminars, workshops or publications of their proceedings

Endowments

Film/video production

Fundraising, testimonial, athletic and special events

Playground or athletic equipment

Travel

Community Interest Form

If you believe your organization meets the criteria outlined above, please complete the Community Interest Form:

Community Interest Form

3Mgives staff reviews information submitted from prospective partners as it relates to our 3Mgives guidelines, strategic priorities and available resources. Please note that submitting your information doesn’t guarantee support.

Community Interest Forms will be reviewed during our grant cycles for each focus area.

Verify Employee and Retiree Gifts for 3M Match

If you were notified by a 3M employee or retiree that he/she donated dollars or time, click on the match type below to verify. To verify a gift, you will leave the 3M site and be directed to Cybergrants, our authorized matching programs software provider.