North Dakota communities and organizations can now submit letters of intent for funding of up to $50,000.
FARGO, N.D. — The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation is now accepting letters of intent for its Fall 2025 Health Innovation Grants (formerly called SPARK Grants). These one-year grants are available to North Dakota nonprofits, municipalities or school districts working to support community-based well-being through new, expanding or innovative programs. Health Innovation Grants aim to foster collaboration, increase community engagement and create lasting, meaningful change.
The grants are guided by findings from the Foundation’s Social Drivers of Health report, which show how environment and daily circumstances can influence overall well-being. By investing in local partnerships, the Foundation works to enhance healthy lifestyles, address service gaps and promote access to health care across the state.
“We’re always inspired by the creativity and commitment of organizations across North Dakota,” said Amber Blomberg, BCBSND Caring Foundation executive director. “These grants are designed to elevate those who are pushing boundaries and finding new ways to support well-being in our state.”
To be considered, projects must meet the following criteria:
- Encourage health and well-being in North Dakota
- Exhibit collaboration with community stakeholders
- Align with evidence-based best practices and principles
- Develop long-term viability
Eligible initiatives may include reducing recidivism, expanding inclusive physical education for individuals of all abilities, increasing access to nutritious food through farmers markets or local grocers or delivering mental health support to underserved communities.
Since its inception in 2021, this grant has impacted over 30 organizations across the state with nearly $1 million invested in these upstream, innovative programs. The 2024 recipients include F5 Project, Strengthen ND, TNT Kid’s Fitness, GiGi’s Playhouse, SENDCAA, NATIVE, Inc., Women Empowering Women and Northland Health Centers.
Letters of intent are due by 5 p.m. (CT) on Thursday, July, 31. Applicants must be North Dakota-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits, municipal entities (such as park boards or public health departments), or school systems. For more information and to apply, visit bcbsnd.com/innovationgrant.
About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation
Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues to help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff collaborate with grantees to support non-profit sustainability, promote shared outcomes and create lasting change.
