The McKnight Foundation, a Minnesota-based family foundation, seeks to improve the quality of life for present and future generations. Through grantmaking, coalition-building, and encouragement of strategic policy reform, we use our resources to attend, unite, and empower those we serve. The Foundation's grantmaking priorities include support of child and youth development, the region and communities, the arts, the environment, and scientific research in selected fields. The Foundation's primary geographic focus is the state of Minnesota. Founded in 1953 and endowed by William L. McKnight and Maude L. McKnight, The McKnight Foundation had assets of approximately $1.9 billion and granted about $96 million in 2010.