The funder's mission focuses on addressing important community needs in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and the 23 Native nations within that geography. The mission is achieved by partnering with public and philanthropic organizations to increase innovation, leverage significant partnerships, and quickly respond to emergency situations, thereby attracting additional resources to the region.
The Bush Prize celebrates organizations highly valued within their communities for their track record in successful community problem-solving. Grants are flexible, intended for initiatives such as building reserves, testing new ideas, or other actions that support an organization's sustained impact. Eligible organizations can receive up to 25% of their last fiscal year's expenses, with a maximum of $500,000. The program fosters innovation and creative solutions among community organizations and Native Nations, emphasizing inclusive, collaborative, and resourceful practices. It is managed in partnership with the Bush Foundation and four community grant partners, each with the flexibility to run the Bush Prize program based on similar criteria but with individual timelines and selection processes.