MINNEAPOLIS (Aug. 24, 2022) – The Xcel Energy Foundation announced it has awarded $2,173,000 to 206 nonprofits in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. The money will be used to help provide funding for critical programs in their communities with a focus on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) career pathways, environmental sustainability and community vitality.

“We have a long tradition of supporting our customers and the communities where we work and live,” said Chris Clark, president of Xcel Energy, Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “The money distributed through our grant programs will create opportunities for community members to thrive, while also supporting local economies across the areas we are proud to serve.”

The grant selection process was based on each organization’s alignment with Xcel Energy’s business priorities, by demonstrating a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and laying the groundwork for strong community impact. The listed nonprofits are a small sample of the 206 organizations Xcel Energy supported in 2022.

  • 30,000 Feet in St. Paul, MN. Offers youth education programs centered on arts, culture and African American empowerment.
  • MIGIZI Communications in Minneapolis, MN. Provides a strong circle of support that nurtures the educational, social and economic and cultural development of American Indian youth.
  • Red Wing Ignite in Red Wing, MN. Fuels economic development by working with key sectors of the community to spur innovation by supporting entrepreneurs, businesses and students.
  • Habitat for Humanity Greater Sioux Falls, Inc. in Sioux Falls, SD. Eliminates substandard housing locally and worldwide through constructing, rehabilitating and preserving homes.
  • Haley’s Hope in Fargo, ND. Provides the training that children and adults with dyslexia need.

The Foundation believes an innovative and diverse workforce, through greater access to equitable and high-quality education and training, ensures our communities are prepared for the future. Through grant funds and nonprofit partnerships, the Foundation supported the creation of 920 small businesses and helped more than 7,000 individuals gain employment, generating an estimated $222 million in wages. Additionally, the Foundation’s goals include providing hands-on STEM learning opportunities to 330,000 students, including 160,000 female learners.

Earlier in 2022, the Foundation announced the launch of a new grant program, “Energizing the Future.” This new giving plan aligns with Xcel Energy’s business priorities to commit funding to organizations inspiring diversity, equity and inclusion within their communities. The Foundation also increased annual grant funding for the company’s eight-state service areas to $4.4 million in 2022, up from $3.8 million in 2021.

Applications for area grants are invitation only and are accepted once a year.

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About Xcel Energy

Xcel Energy (NASDAQ: XEL) provides the energy that powers millions of homes and businesses across eight Western and Midwestern states. Headquartered in Minneapolis, the company is an industry leader in responsibly reducing carbon emissions and producing and delivering clean energy solutions from a variety of renewable sources at competitive prices. For more information, visit xcelenergy.com or follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

About Xcel Energy Foundation

The Xcel Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that awards charitable grants to nonprofit organizations and sponsors the volunteer programs of Xcel Energy and its subsidiaries. The majority of Xcel Energy Foundation funding comes from Xcel Energy shareholder dollars. For more information, visit https://www.xcelenergy.com/community/focus_area_grants.