Higher Education Giving

Successful Students
We invest primarily in technical, engineering and business schools, and efforts that further teaching and learning. Our grants make learning different for students – different in the sense they are engaged because of new facilities, curriculum or programs. Our goal is to help students prepare for future opportunities in an ever-changing world.

Why We Give to Higher Education

• To advance teaching and learning in science, engineering and business.
  
• To increase participation by underrepresented people in these fields.
  
• To establish a link with K-12 education through professional development for teachers and college readiness for students.

Highlights

St. Olaf College and the Sciences
Young scientists and math whizzes at St. Olaf College will have a new high-tech place to learn.

The 3M Foundation instituted a special 3-1 match on employee and retiree gifts for a new science facility. In just three months, $189,918 was raised far surpassing the $150,000 goal. The combined gift is $689,918. More

MentorNet - A New Statewide Initiative
MentorNet in San Jose, Calif., received a $50,000 grant to launch Minnesota MentorNet with a pilot that involves seven postsecondary institutions. The program matches college students studying science and engineering with professionals working in industry, government and higher education. More

Visionary Ideas at Liberal Arts Colleges
Four private colleges with creative programs that address real-world situations have received 3M Vision Grants totaling more than $183,000 from the 3M Foundation. This year’s recipients involve students in community projects that range from support of the environment to serving vulnerable adults. More