1. What benefits and opportunities will CAAL Ignite grantees receive? 

The CAAL Ignite Fund is about more than grant funding—it’s a comprehensive program designed to expand the social and professional networks of grantees. Through a series of round table training sessions, tailored specifically to priorities identified by grantees, participants will gain valuable insights and skills to help elevate their projects.  

CAAL Ignite offers a unique opportunity to dive into policy advocacy, empowering grantees with knowledge and tools to influence decisions that affect the Asian Minnesotan community. Grantees will gain practical skills to catalyze positive change, strengthening the broader community and advancing the shared vision of a more equitable future. CAAL Ignite is a powerful network of support that will amplify the impact of individual grantees while also fostering collaborative growth. 

2. What are the commitments of CAAL Ignite grantee? 

All CAAL Ignite grantees are required to: 

• Attend three in-person sessions: the program kickoff, a round table session, and the end-of-program celebration. 
• Tentative dates are as follows:
  •  May 2025: Kickoff 
  • October 2025: Round Table Session
  • March 2026: End-of-Program Celebration, including a 5-minute project presentation to the CAAL Ignite cohort   
• Engage in networking events: 
  • Attend at least one social or business networking event per quarter 
• Fulfill reporting and check-in requirements: 
  • Submit an interim and final report 
  • Participate in quarterly check-ins with the grant manager 

3. What is the duration of a CAAL Ignite grant? 

The grant and project duration are 10 months in length (June 2025 – March 2026). Associated program activities and requirements will take place within the grant timeframe, and funding needs to be expended by March 2026.  

4. My business/nonprofit has not yet filed its 2024 taxes. Can I use 2023 and 2022 financial documents for the application? 

Yes, you can submit 2023 and 2022 financial documents for verification. 

5. What is the purpose of this grant? 

The purpose of this grant is to address the intersectional challenge of economic inequality and anti-Asian hate. Submitted applications or projects must meet the goals of CAAL Ignite, which include:   

• Building a stronger sense of cultural identity through history and solidarity across racial and ethnic groups.

• Promoting socio-economic mobility with greater investments in Asian American leaders. 

• Increasing influence and decision-making power over policies that affect Asian American communities.

• Changing the narrative to mitigate anti-Asian stereotypes and combat hate.

6. What kinds of projects or activities can I include in my application?  

Eligible projects or activities include those that support fellowships, internships, education opportunities, or efforts to advance a community initiative. We also welcome projects aimed at strengthening nonprofits or community-based organizations, improving operations, building capacity, or starting new programs or services. Additionally, we encourage projects that help strengthen or expand small businesses aligned with CAAL’s community-defined priorities. 

This list is not exhaustive, and we will consider any projects that align with the goals of CAAL Ignite and have a positive impact on Minnesota’s Asian American community. 

7. Who is eligible to apply for this grant? 

We welcome projects that meet the guidelines. Priority will be given to CAAL Network Leaders (program participants or event attendees of CAAL).  

Eligible individuals must meet the following criteria: 

• The applicant is of Asian descent and identifies as part of the Asian American community. 

• The applicant resides in Minnesota or is working on a project that directly impacts Asian Minnesotan communities. 

• The applicant is at least 15 years old at the time of application. 

• The applicant is applying as an individual and not on behalf of an organization, group, or business. 

• The proposed initiative aligns with at least one of CAAL Ignite Fund’s four key goals: strengthening cultural identity, promoting socio-economic mobility, increasing policy influence, or changing narratives. 

Eligible nonprofits must meet the following criteria: 

• The organization must be registered as a 501(c)(3) or be fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3). 

• The organization must be registered to do business in Minnesota and have an active registration with the Secretary of State. 

• The organization must have at least two years of financial reports. 

• The organization must provide an IRS 990 or 990EZ form. 

• The nonprofit must have an annual operating budget of less than $500,000. 

The nonprofit must meet at least two of the following three criteria to qualify:

• The executive director is Asian American. 

• At least 51% of the board members are Asian American. 

• At least 51% of the staff are Asian American. 

Eligible small businesses must meet the following criteria: 

• The business must be owned and operated in Minnesota. 

• The business must be majority-owned (51% or more) by a Minnesota resident. 

• The business must employ between 1 and 10 full-time equivalent (FTE) staff. 

• The business must generate less than $500,000 in gross annual revenue from sales to the public. 

• The business must be registered with the Secretary of State of Minnesota as of December 31, 2024. 

• The business must be able to provide two years of financial reports. 

8. What are the funding amounts available? 

Individuals are eligible to receive grants of up to $10,000, while nonprofits and businesses are eligible for grants of up to $15,000. Funds must be spent within the 9-month grant period. A total of 20 grants will be awarded, including: 

• 12 Small Business Grants:
  • 6 grants for Asian American women entrepreneurs
  • 6 grants for all other applicants 

• 4 Non-profit grants 

• 4 Individual grants 

9. Can the individual grant be used for any purpose?  

The individual grant must be used for projects that align with CAAL Ignite’s mission and goals. It cannot be used for personal expenses such as tuition, living costs, political campaigns, fundraising activities, real estate purchases, or any costs not directly related to the proposed project. 

Before applying, carefully review the grant guidelines to ensure your project is well-suited to the fund’s priorities. If you have questions about whether your project meets CAAL Ignite goals, please contact Chonburi Lee at chonburi@caalmn.org or (612) 208-3238 for guidance. 

10. Can the small business and non-profit grant be used for any purpose? 

Small business and nonprofit grant funding must align with the goals of CAAL Ignite. As part of the application process, applicants will be required to outline how they plan to use the grant funds and how their project will contribute meaningfully to the program’s objectives. 

Before applying, carefully review the grant guidelines to ensure your project is well-suited to the fund’s priorities. If you have questions about whether your project meets CAAL Ignite goals, please contact Chonburi Lee at chonburi@caalmn.org or (612) 208-3238 for guidance. 

11. Can I submit more than one application? 

An individual, business, or non-profit may only submit one application and can apply for only one category. Exception: Nonprofit applicants may submit more than one application only in the case of fiscal sponsorship. If a nonprofit is a fiscal sponsor for another organization, it can submit an application both for itself as the fiscal sponsor and for the organization it is sponsoring. 

12. Are there any matching fund requirements? 

There are no matching fund requirements. 

13. What happens if I am awarded the grant? 

If awarded, you will receive an official notification, usually via email, detailing the funding amount and any applicable terms or conditions. You will be required to sign a grant agreement or contract outlining the terms and conditions of the grant, including reporting requirements, timelines, and allowable use of funds. 

You will need to provide periodic updates or reports on the progress of your project, including financial documentation and performance outcomes. 

At the end of the grant period, a final report detailing the outcomes, impacts, and use of funds will be required. 

14. Can I use the individual grant to start my business? 

No, the CAAL Ignite fund cannot be used to start a new business. The grant is intended to support projects that align with the program’s goals and create meaningful impact within the community. 

15. What are the selection criteria for the grant? 

Applications will be reviewed with the following selection criteria in mind:  

• Alignment with CAAL Ignite Goals: Does the project align with CAAL’s mission and goals? 

• Desirability of the Project: Is the project considered valuable or beneficial to the Asian American community? 

• Feasibility of the Project: Is the project realistically achievable within the proposed constraints (e.g., resources, expertise, capacity)? 

• Viability of the Project: Is the project sustainable or capable of achieving its stated outcomes? 

• Reasonableness of the Timeline: Can the project be completed within the proposed timeline? 

16. Can I apply if I’ve received a grant from CAAL in the past? 

Yes, grantees of the SPARK Leadership Fund and Stronger Together Fund who have successfully completed their respective programs are eligible to apply for a CAAL Ignite grant. 

17. Can I apply if I’ve received other grants? 

Yes, you can receive grants from two sources for the same project IF you apply the funds to different expenses. “Double dipping”, which is NOT allowed, means using the same budget line items for multiple grants. Each grant must be used for specific, separate expenses related to the project. 

18. What are the reporting and accountability requirements? 

Grant recipients will need to submit both interim and final reports. The details of these reports will be shared when you receive the grant. The reports may include financial reports that show how the grant money was used as well as narrative reports that describe the progress and results of your project. 

19. Do I need to have specific qualifications or experience to apply? 

No, specific qualifications or extensive experience are not required to apply for this grant. We value diverse backgrounds and experiences and believe that as long as you have a clear plan and the capacity to carry out the proposed project, you are eligible to apply. Our process aims to create an equitable opportunity for all to participate and succeed while ensuring applicants have demonstrated experience to achieve the proposed project. If you have any doubts about your qualifications or experience, feel free to contact us for guidance. 

20. What is the application deadline? 

Applications must be submitted by 4:00 PM CST on 02/26/2025 

21. How do I apply for the grant? 

To apply for the grant, start by reviewing the grant guidelines to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements. Next, gather your proposal, budget, and any other required documents. Once prepared, visit https://caalmn.org/caal-ignite/ and click “Start an Application.” Complete all required questions in the application form, upload your supporting documents, and then submit your application. If you need assistance at any point, contact Chonburi Lee at chonburi@caalmn.org or (612) 208-3238. 

22. What documents or materials do I need to submit with my application? 

For Individual applicants: 

• A Copy of Minnesota Driver’s License or ID card 

• Letter of Support (from someone other than a family member or friend) 

• Reference Name, Phone Number, and Email Address (note: the reference cannot be the same person as your letter of support) 

For Small Business applicants: 

• MN Secretary of State Registration (verifies you are doing business in Minnesota) 

• Two years of income and expense statements and balance sheets (to confirm financial status) 

For Nonprofit applicants: 

• MN Secretary of State Registration (verifies you are doing business in Minnesota) 

• IRS Letter of Exemption (confirms nonprofit status) 

• 990, 990EZ, or most recent financial reports from your nonprofit or fiscal sponsor (to verify financial health) 

• Two years of income and expense statements and balance sheets (to confirm financial status) 

23. Is there a specific format or template I must follow for my application? 

Applications may be submitted through the online portal or via video. More information about the application process can be found in the Application Overview. 

24. What happens if I miss the application deadline? 

Applications will not be accepted after the posted submission deadline of 2/26/2025 at 4:00PM CST. 

25. Can I modify my application after submission?  

Modifications to your application will not be accepted after submission. 

26. How will I be notified about the outcome of my application? 

Notifications of grant awards will be emailed out to the person listed as the primary contact in the grant application. 

27. What should I do if I have technical issues with the application system? 

If you have any issues with the grant portal or application system, please contact Chonburi Lee at chonburi@caalmn.org or (612) 208-3238. 

28. Who is not eligible to apply for the CAAL Ignite grant? 

Employees of CAAL, Board Members, and their direct family members are not eligible to apply for the CAAL Ignite grant. 

29. What types of financial documents can I submit? 

CAAL prefers that you submit your tax returns. If you have not completed your 2024 taxes, you may submit your 2022 and 2023 tax returns. If selected as a grantee, CAAL may request your 2024 tax documents at a later stage. If you provide a self-attestation, CAAL may request official tax documents if selected. 

You can submit any of the following financial documents: 

• Tax Returns: IRS Form 1040, IRS Form 1040X, or tax filings 

• Nonprofit Tax Documents: IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N (for nonprofit organizations) 

• IRS Form 1099: IRS Form 1099s 

• Attestation:
  • Balance Sheet: A summary of your business’s assets, liabilities, and equity
  • Profit and Loss Statement: A financial statement showing your business’s revenues and expenses  

30. Can I modify my application once it’s been submitted? 

Yes, you can continue to modify your application until 02/26/2025 at 4:00 PM. 

31. Can I submit the individual application jointly with someone else? 

No. 

32. Does the 1 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) employee need to be in a tax-verified position? 

Yes.

28. Who can I talk to if I have questions about the application? 

If you have any questions about the application, contact Chonburi Lee at chonburi@caalmn.org or (612) 208-3238.