Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

MediumBullet The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 07-01-2011 and ending 06-30-2012
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Doing Business As
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
2801 21st Ave South
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
Minneapolis, MN55407
D Employer identification number

41-1921126
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 1,970,718
F Name and address of principal officer:
ROLF NORDSTROM
2801 21st Ave South 220
Minneapolis,MN55407
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
www.gpisd.net
H(a)
Is this a group return for
affiliates?
H(b)
Are all affiliates included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:
 
L Year of formation: 1997
M State of legal domicile: MN
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: The Great Plains Institute is a non-partisan non-profit corporation, serving 12 Midwestern states and the province of Manitoba. Our mission is to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy by bringing together key public and private leaders.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a)..... 3 11
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .... 4 10
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2011 (Part V, line 2a) ... 5 14
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .... 6 12
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 .. 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 .. 7b  
Revenues; Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 688,288 1,663,121
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 317,386 301,012
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 3,185 2,625
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 1,750 3,960
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)................... 1,010,609 1,970,718
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...   0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4).....   0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 759,619 813,731
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e).....   0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet108,875    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f).... 482,728 880,770
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 1,242,347 1,694,501
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... -231,738 276,217
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 810,400 1,144,937
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 76,860 135,180
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 733,540 1,009,757
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title.
Paid preparer use only
Print/type preparer's name
 
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name Right pointing arrowhead image

Firm's EIN Right pointing arrowhead image
Firm's address Right pointing arrowhead image



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See instructions .........bullet
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III .........
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: The Great Plains Institute is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brings together key public and private leaders from across the northern plains to accelerate the transition to a renewable and low-carbon energy system by mid-century. We work collaboratively with a diverse group of creative, intelligent individuals to achieve consensus on policy and technology recommendations for businesses and government.1) Develop consensus on needed policy reforms and see them become law;2) Catalyze development, demonstration and deployment of promising low-carbon energy technologies and practices;3) Identify, manage, and sometimes conduct, research that could speed commercialization and adoption of such technologies and practices; and,4) Deliver targeted public education and outreach on the challenges and benefits of these low-carbon energy options.Our niche is to foster consensus, then action, among diverse interests to develop workable policy approaches, accelerate adoption of new technologies
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ....................
If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? ..........................
If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 390,487 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
Electric Grid, Regional & International Collaboration1.Worked with other Midwestern non-profit organizations to advance high-priority, regionally-beneficial transmission lines, known as "Multi-Value Projects" (MVPs), that are critical for renewable energy development in the Midwest. More transmission lines have become the limiting factor for getting more wind energy on the electric grid. GPI has worked to address inter-state coordination and permitting issues that have proven to be challenges to getting these lines built. This work has also significant outreach and discussion with local environmental groups that have concerns regarding how the costs for these lines are allocated and local impacts of these lines.2.Briefed governors and their energy staff on emerging regional transmission plans and their implications for states, to gain governors' support for key transmission lines. In October of 2011 GPI worked with the Midwestern Governors Association to successfully hold a high-level Midwestern transmission summit in Des Moines, IA, that was broadly attended by governors' staff, state and FERC commissioners, industry executives, and other stakeholders to discuss and collaborate on key issues surrounding transmission development in the Midwest. Other outreach and education work involved individual meetings with FERC commissioners and senior DOE leaders to keep them up to date and supportive of transmission development in the Midwest. 3.GPI was chosen to be one of a handful of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to formally serve on the "NGO Caucus" of a large DOE-sponsored effort called the Eastern Interconnect Planning Collaborative (EIPC). This transmission planning process will help determine transmission plans for the entire Eastern half of the U.S., covering 38 states and three Canadian provinces. GPI, along with its partners, is actively engaged in this national effort to determine the most cost effective regional transmission lines for supporting significant renewable energy expansion on the U.S. electric grid. EIPC has now advanced to the final scenario modeling stage which include future energy scenarios proposed by the NGO caucus that GPI has been part of.4.Advanced the Midwest's ability to meet its renewable energy goals via a number of collaborative groups devoted to an advanced electric grid and clean energy in the Midwest. These include 1) MISO (Midwest Independent System Operator) Clean Energy Advocates Group, which focuses on MISO issues and FERC (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission) compliance filings related to regional transmission, demand response, energy efficiency, coal retirements, and more. 2) A national FERC Order 1000 NGO (non-governmental organization) Coordination Group, which is monitoring and formally commenting on grid operators' efforts to comply with Order 1000. The Order changes the way regional grid operators plan and allocate costs for regional transmission lines, and 3) Midwestern Governors Association Clean Energy Platform Goals group, which provides a forum for states, MISO, and other key stakeholders to advance transmission projects that are necessary to achieve Midwestern states' statutory renewable energy goals.5.Researched and published a report on opportunities to improve the ways states coordinate the siting of transmission lines: Opportunities to enable interstate coordination & cooperation in support of transmission infrastructure build-out in the Midwest. This report outlines options for stakeholders to consider that enable interstate cooperation and coordination in support of transmission infrastructure deployment that is fundamental to achieving renewable and other cleaner energy deployment goals.6.Improved coordination on Smart Grid research. A smarter grid promises many consumer, environmental and efficiency benefits, but implementation has been hampered by a range of barriers. Great Plains Institute provided facilitation for a large regional gathering called, Electricity at the Crossroads: A Smart Grid for the Midwest, hosted by the University of Minnesota Humphrey Institute for Public Affairs and the Institute on the Environment. The event brought together academics, industry representatives and NGO's to begin developing a shared research agenda on Midwestern smart grid implementation, with the goal of improving our collective understanding of how to improve and accelerate adoption of a more digitized electric grid.7.Helped Midwestern states identify their energy priorities and areas for fruitful cross-state collaboration. GPI assisted the Midwestern Governors Association in surveying and interviewing member states on their respective energy priorities and then translating those priorities into a Midwestern Energy Opportunities Report: Low-Cost Energy in the Midwest - 2012. In June 2012, GPI facilitated a gathering of state governors' staff to use the report to develop work plans around specific areas ripe for multi-state coordination and collaboration. GPI continues to work with MGA member states on implementing these work plans. 8.GPI organized, with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, a delegation of North Dakota leaders to Norway to identify common energy policy, technology and investment priorities. The delegation was hosted by the Norwegian Ministry of Petroleum and Energy, private companies Statoil and Borregaard, and a number of academic, research and nongovernmental organizations. The delegation included top state and local government officials; state legislators; industry executives; representatives of universities and research institutions; conservation and environmental advocates; and the media. GPI and delegates identified opportunities for further collaboration, including between institutions of higher learning in Norway and North Dakota. 9.GPI helped develop a powerful new on-line tool to help decision-makers better understand the Midwestern electricity system and the opportunities for improving it. GPI partnered with World Resources Institute in Washington DC to develop the Power Almanac of the American Midwest. WRI deserves the bulk of the credit for the product, which they are also committed to keeping up-to-date, but GPI is proud to have been a partner.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 336,345 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
Fossil Fuels and Climate1.Facilitated new federal legislation to encourage use of carbon dioxide for enhanced oil recovery, providing both energy security and climate benefits, while yielding net revenue for the U.S. Treasury. This was accomplished via the National Enhanced Oil Recovery Initiative (NEORI), co-convened with the national Center for Climate and Energy Solutions. The NEORI was launched with bipartisan support from four U.S. Senators and a member of Congress. Project participants met on three occasions and held regular conference calls to develop, refine, and reach consensus on recommendations and work products. The NEORI released recommendations on February 28, 2012, to boost domestic oil production and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions through the expanded use of enhanced oil recovery (EOR). Senator Kent Conrad (D-ND) and Congressman Mike Conaway (R-TX) welcomed the group's recommendations at an event on Capitol Hill. Sens. Max Baucus (D-MT), Kent Conrad (D-ND), John Hoeven (R-ND), Richard Lugar (R-IN), and Congressmen Mike Conaway (R-TX) and Rick Berg (R-ND) released written statements. Senators Conrad and Enzi, together with Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), introduced S. 3581 as bipartisan Senate legislation. 2.Helped broker agreement among utilities, environmental groups and regulators on how best to respond to emerging greenhouse gas, and other, regulations emerging from the U.S. EPA. GPI partnered with the World Resources Institute (WRI), Pace Energy & Climate Center (Pace Center) to convene, facilitate, and provide technical assistance to two projects on federal rules affecting coal-based electric generation. The first project focused on the state of Minnesota and involved a partnership of the State of Minnesota, EPA and industry, NGOs and other stakeholders. Participants agreed on goals and priorities for their recommendations, prepared base case assumptions, and proposed policy scenarios for modeling the impact of existing and proposed EPA rules together with existing state policies. However, EPA officials decided not to proceed with proposing a federal rule for regulating greenhouse gas emissions from existing power generation facilities, so project participants in Minnesota chose to suspend modeling activities and decided not to complete final recommendations to EPA at this time. The second project, the Midwestern Power Sector Rules Collaborative (MWPSR) built on the Minnesota project and expanded to a Midwestern focus. Participants include investor-owned utilities and public power companies, regulators representing Midwestern states, and environmental NGOs. The second project is on-going and the participants have had two in-person meetings and regular conference calls to develop regional consensus on recommendations to Midwestern states and formal comments to EPA.3.Partnered with the Midwestern Governors Association to organize and lead a high-level public-private delegation to Alabama, Texas and Mississippi to understand how best to accelerate the use of human-produced CO2 for enhanced oil recovery (CO2-EOR). GPI also partnered with the University of Texas' Alliance for Sequestration Training, Outreach, Research and Education (STORE), Mississippi Energy Policy Institute, Denbury Resources, Southern Co. and the Southern States Energy Board (SSEB), to organize the delegation. Over four days, delegation participants visited commercial CO2-EOR operations and received expert briefings about technical, economic, project development, and environmental aspects of EOR and about successful policies and public-private partnerships that have helped expand the commercial CO2-EOR industry in the Gulf Coast region.4.Partnered with the Clinton Climate Initiative (CCI) and the Midwestern Governors Association (MGA) to develop an analysis of the potential for enhanced oil recovery (EOR) using captured CO2 in the Midwest. The analysis incorporated data and feedback from many industry and state agency experts. The effort resulted in an analysis titled CO2-EOR in the MGA Region and an executive summary released at an MGA event.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 326,302 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Communities1.Fostered closer cooperation and mutual learning among statewide sustainable communities programs in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin. The goal of the collaboration is to improve programs in all three states through shared learning and to better assist communities to adopt economic development, quality of life and environmental sustainability practices. Holding one meeting this fiscal year, GPI brought together representatives of state and federal agencies, University Extension, local sustainability directors, and NGOs to share information about best practices, evaluation results, and metrics, shortening the learning curve for all three participating states.2.Helped grow Minnesota's statewide GreenStep Cities program, governed by a public-private partnership among the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), League of Minnesota Cities, and several other organizations. GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program based upon 28 best practices to help cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of-life goals. GPI was one of several organizations that collaborated to start the program, which now has 49 cities enrolled. GPI facilitates partner meetings, coordinates NGO participation, provides direct assistance to communities, and assists with program development, data collection and analysis. The GreenStep Cities program received two Environmental Initiative Awards, including partnership of the year. Top actions completed by cites include building energy efficiency measures, energy efficient purchasing, expanding access to local food, and water conservation, among others. 3.Led the Midwestern Governors Association's Industrial Energy Efficiency Initiative, aimed at improving the competitiveness of Midwestern industry. The goal of the initiative was to raise the visibility of the industrial energy efficiency opportunity and to highlight the region's workforce, energy and manufacturing assets, and financial and natural resources that are available to support the growth of industrial energy efficiency in the Midwest. GPI organized and facilitated the initiative's meetings; co-sponsored an event called The Size of the Prize: Midwest Industrial Energy Efficiency Summit with IL Governor Quinn as the keynote speaker and attended by over 100 participants; and co-authored a report titled Midwest Manufacturing Snapshot: Energy Use and Efficiency Policies.4.Helped identify ways to improve energy efficiency financing in the Midwest. GPI collaborated with the Center on Wisconsin Strategies at the University of Wisconsin Madison to lead a study of the opportunities for Midwestern NGOs to improve energy efficiency financing options in the region. GPI coordinated the study, provided research assistance, facilitated a one-day meeting of Midwestern NGOs and co-authored a final report. 5.Researched the potential to increase energy efficiency lending by community development finance institutions (CDFIs) in collaboration with Harcourt Brown & Carey Energy & Finance. This entailed conducting a series of interviews of CDFIs, foundations, government agencies, efficiency service providers, and others. GPI and HBC held a full day meeting of practitioners to facilitate information-sharing, identify barriers and co-authored a final report. 6.Began an in-depth investigation of opportunities to expand energy efficiency financing in the industrial sector. During this fiscal year, GPI conducted background research through a literature review and a series of interviews on available financing, industry needs, and barriers to increased uptake of industrial energy efficiency and combined heat and power.
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 308,897 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet$ 1,362,031
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? Click to see attachment........
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part IClick to see attachment..........
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part IIClick to see attachment.........................
4
Yes
 
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part IIIClick to see attachment........................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IClick to see attachment....................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IIClick to see attachment...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III Click to see attachment....................
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IVClick to see attachment...................
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VClick to see attachment
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII.Click to see attachment
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII.Click to see attachment
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX.Click to see attachment
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11e
 
No
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.Click to see attachment
11f
Yes
 
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII Click to see attachment
12a
Yes
 
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional Click to see attachment
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part I
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....
20a
 
No
b
If “Yes” to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statement to this return? Note. All Form 990 filers that operated one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements.
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to any government or organization in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
No
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................
24c
 
No
d
Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
No
25a
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................
25b
 
No
26
Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II.........................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV .........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV...................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV..
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1.....................
34
 
No
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
 
No
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...
35b
 
No
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V .........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......
1a
2
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
Yes
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................
2a
14
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....
3b
 
No
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........
5c
 
No
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........
6a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................
6b
 
No
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................
7a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....
7b
 
No
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................
7c
 
No
d
If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
0
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................
7e
 
No
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..
7f
 
No
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................
7g
 
No
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............
7h
 
No
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................
8
 
No
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........
9a
 
No
b
Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......
9b
 
No
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them) ........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.
13a
 
No
b
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.
13b
 
c
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
No
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
No
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI .........
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
If the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
1a
11
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................
1b
10
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?
4
Yes
 
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
 
No
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? .................
7a
 
No
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ............
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .........................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ..........
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes? ....
10b
 
No
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this was done ....................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
Yes
 
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes," to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
No
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
MN
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet
Eric Schroeder
2801 21st Ave South 220
Minneapolis,MN55407
(612) 278-7150
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII .........
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;
(1) JOHN WELLS
Chairman
 5.00 X   X       0 0 0
(2) JULIE KETCHUM
Secretary
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(3) CHRISTOPHER NEHER
Vice Chair
 3.00 X   X       0 0 0
(4) WILL KAUL
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(5) MICHAEL JERSTAD
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(6) DAWN ERLANDSON
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(7) KATHRYN DRAEGER PHD
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(8) Larry Goode
Treasurer
 4.00 X   X       0 0 0
(9) KIM CARLSON
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(10) JOHN BAUMGARTNER
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(11) ROLF NORDSTROM
Executive Direc
 40.00 X   X       97,655 0 10,525












Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............MediumBullet 97,655   10,525
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organizationMediumBullet0
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
Strategies for the Global Environment
 
  		Consulting 120,750
STABILITY CONSULTING INC
3215 Rosewood Lane N
Plymouth,MN55441 		CONSULTING 112,910
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet2
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512, 513, or 514
Contributions, Gifts, Grants and Other Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues....1b  
c Fundraising events....1c  
d Related organizations...1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e 120,521
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and
similar amounts not included above1f 		1,542,600
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$  
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 1,663,121
Program Service Revenue Business Code
2a Contracts 561,000 301,012 301,012    
b
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue .        
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f........MediumBullet 301,012
Other Revenue 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest
and other similar amounts).....MediumBullet 2,625     2,625
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..MediumBullet 0      
5 Royalties............MediumBullet 0      
(i) Real (ii) Personal
6a Gross rents    
b Less: rental expenses    
c Rental income or (loss)    
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet 0      
(i) Securities (ii) Other
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory    
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses    
c Gain or (loss)    
d Net gain or (loss)..........MediumBullet 0      
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including
$  
of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet 0    
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...MediumBullet 0      
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances .
a  
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b  
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 0      
Miscellaneous Revenue Business Code
11a Other Income   3,960 3,960    
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......MediumBullet 3,960
12 Total revenue. See Instructions....MediumBullet 1,970,718 304,972   2,625
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part IX. .........
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States. See Part IV, line 21 0  
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22 0  
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16 0  
4 Benefits paid to or for members 0  
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 108,180 74,192 23,205 10,783
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) .... 558,247 384,284 116,905 57,058
7 Other salaries and wages 0      
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 0      
9 Other employee benefits ....... 86,142 59,999 19,143 7,000
10 Payroll taxes ........... 61,162 38,763 16,514 5,885
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ...... 0      
b Legal ......... 0      
c Accounting ........... 0      
d Lobbying ........... 0      
e Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17.. 0  
f Investment management fees ...... 0      
g Other .......... 535,193 504,558 18,817 11,818
12 Advertising and promotion .... 0      
13 Office expenses ....... 35,692 25,994 4,909 4,789
14 Information technology ...... 0      
15 Royalties .. 0      
16 Occupancy ........... 58,952 42,455 11,129 5,368
17 Travel ............ 102,005 94,248 1,717 6,040
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ...... 0      
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 8,441 8,441    
20 Interest ........... 0      
21 Payments to affiliates ....... 0      
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..... 8,081   8,081  
23 Insurance .............. 2,182 795 1,324 63
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24f. If line 24f amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24f expenses on Schedule O.)
a TRAINING 433 25 408  
b MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSE 62   62  
c GPI MEETING EXPENSES 128,962 127,581 1,381  
d EQUIPMENT AND FURNITURE 767 696   71
e
f All other expenses 0      
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f 1,694,501 1,362,031 223,595 108,875
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 11
Part X Balance Sheet
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing ..........   1 0
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ....... 622,387 2 644,465
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ......... 158,023 3 474,349
4 Accounts receivable, net ......... 6,542 4 6,858
5 Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   5 0
6 Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   6 0
7 Notes and loans receivable, net .............   7 0
8 Inventories for sale or use ..............   8 0
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............ 4,583 9 3,173
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 77,705
b Less: accumulated depreciation. ..... 10b 61,613 18,865 10c 16,092
11 Investments—publicly traded securities ..........   11 0
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ......   12 0
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13 0
14 Intangible assets .........   14 0
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ...........   15 0
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 810,400 16 1,144,937
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses . 76,860 17 135,180
18 Grants payable ..........   18  
19 Deferred revenue ..........   19  
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities ..........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D..   21  
22 Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key
employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..........   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ....   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D.....   25  
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..... 76,860 26 135,180
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets ..... 409,355 27 388,441
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ..... 324,185 28 621,316
29 Permanently restricted net assets .....   29  
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ..... 733,540 33 1,009,757
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ..... 810,400 34 1,144,937
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI .........
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ...
1
1,970,718
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ....
2
1,694,501
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ...
3
276,217
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
733,540
5
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ...
5
 
6
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) ....
6
1,009,757
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII .........
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?....
2a
 
No
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........
2b
Yes
 
c
If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant? If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O. ...........................
2c
Yes
 
d
If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..
3b
 
No
Form 990 (2011)
Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support

Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section
4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrow See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
section 170(b)(1)(A)(iv). (Complete Part II.)
6
7
8
9
receipts from activities related to its exempt functions—subject to certain exceptions, and (2) no more than 331/3% of
its support from gross investment income and unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 tax) from businesses
acquired by the organization after June 30, 1975. See section 509(a)(2). (Complete Part III.)
10
11
e
f
g
(i) a person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (ii)
Yes
No
and (iii) below, the governing body of the the supported organization? ................
11g(i)
 
 
(ii) a family member of a person described in (i) above? ......................
11g(ii)
 
 
(iii) a 35% controlled entity of a person described in (i) or (ii) above? ................
11g(iii)
 
 
h
(i)
Name of supported organization 		(ii)
EIN 		(iii)
Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above or IRC section (see instructions)) 		(iv)
Is the organization in col. (i) listed in your governing document? 		(v)
Did you notify the organization in col. (i) of your support? 		(vi)
Is the organization in col. (i) organized in the U.S.? 		(vii)
Amount of support?
Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total                  

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .... 1,657,729 1,217,769 849,749 975,131 1,960,163 6,660,541
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf.......           0
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..           0
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3.. 1,657,729 1,217,769 849,749 975,131 1,960,163 6,660,541
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f)..           2,311,440
6 Public Support. Subtract line 5 from line 4.           4,349,101
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4.. 1,657,729 1,217,769 849,749 975,131 1,960,163 6,660,541
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources.. 13,526 7,668 5,623 3,185   30,002
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..           0
10 Other income. (Explain in Part IV.) Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets..           0
11 Total support (Add lines 7 through 10).           6,690,543
12
12
 
13
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
65.000 %
15
15
47.820 %
16a
b
17a
b
18
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .            
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......            
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513..            
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...            
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5.            
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...            
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.            
c Add lines 7a and 7b..            
8 Public Support (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)            
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6...            
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.            
c Add lines 10a and 10b.            
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.            
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part IV.)            
13 Total support (Add lines 9, 10c, 11 and 12.).            
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
 
16
16
 
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
 
18
18
 
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 4
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Supplemental Information. Complete this part to provide the explanation required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; or Part III, line 12. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
 
Explanation
 
 
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors
Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Name of organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Employer identification number

41-1921126
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ





Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......................... Arrow Bullet   $    
Caution. An Organization that is not covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules does not file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its
Form 990-EZ or on Part I, line 2, of its Form 990-PF, to certify that it does not meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 2
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC 		Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part I
Contributors (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
     
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
 

     
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED  
RESTRICTED, RESTRICTED   RESTRICTED

$RESTRICTED




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 3
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC 		Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part II
Noncash Property (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
     
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 4
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC 		Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., individual contributions to section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organizations
that total more than $1,000 for the year. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry.
For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc.,
contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet $  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2
SCHEDULE C
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities

For Organizations Exempt From Income Tax Under section 501(c) and section 527
SchCMd Bullet Complete if the organization is described below.
SchCMd Bullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. SchCMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 3, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 46 (Political Campaign Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and B. Do not complete Part I-C.
Round Bullet Section 501(c) (other than section 501(c)(3)) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and C below. Do not complete Part I-B.
Round Bullet Section 527 organizations: Complete Part I-A only.
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 4, or Form 990-EZ, Part VI, line 47 (Lobbying Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)) Complete Part II-A. Do not complete Part II-B.
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-B. Do not complete Part II-A.
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 5 (Proxy Tax) or Form 990-EZ, line 35c (Proxy Tax), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) organizations: Complete Part III.
Name of the organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part I-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) or is a section 527 organization.

1
Provide a description of the organization’s direct and indirect political campaign activities in Part IV.
2
Political expenditures ....................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
Volunteer hours ........................................
 

Part I-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by the organization under section 4955 .........SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by organization managers under section 4955 ......SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
If the organization incurred a section 4955 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? ..............
4a
Was a correction made? .........................................
b
If "Yes," describe in Part IV.
Part I-C
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) except section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount directly expended by the filing organization for section 527 exempt function activities SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of the filing organization's funds contributed to other organizations for section 527 exempt function activities ...................................SchCMd Bullet

$  
3
Total exempt function expenditures. Add lines 1 and 2. Enter here and on Form 1120-POL, line 17b..SchCMd Bullet

$  
4
Did the filing organization file Form 1120-POL for this year? ..........................
5
Enter the names, addresses and employer identification number (EIN) of all section 527 political organizations to which the filing
organization made payments. For each organization listed, enter the amount paid from the filing organization’s funds. Also enter the amount of political contributions received that were promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization, such as a separate segregated fund or a political action committee (PAC). If additional space is needed, provide information in Part IV.
(a) Name (b) Address (c) EIN (d) Amount paid from filing organization's funds. If none, enter -0-. (e) Amount of political contributions received and promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization. If none, enter -0-.










For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50084S
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
A Check expenses, and share of excess lobbying expenditures).
B Check
Limits on Lobbying Expenditures
(The term "expenditures" means amounts paid or incurred.) 		(a) Filing
organization's
totals 		(b) Affiliated group
totals
1a Total lobbying expenditures to influence public opinion (grass roots lobbying) ......    
b Total lobbying expenditures to influence a legislative body (direct lobbying) .......    
c Total lobbying expenditures (add lines 1a and 1b) ...................    
d Other exempt purpose expenditures ........................    
e Total exempt purpose expenditures (add lines 1c and 1d) ...............    
f Lobbying nontaxable amount. Enter the amount from the following table in both
columns.		    
  If the amount on line 1e, column (a) or (b) is:The lobbying nontaxable amount is:    
  Not over $500,00020% of the amount on line 1e.    
  Over $500,000 but not over $1,000,000$100,000 plus 15% of the excess over $500,000.    
  Over $1,000,000 but not over $1,500,000$175,000 plus 10% of the excess over $1,000,000.    
  Over $1,500,000 but not over $17,000,000$225,000 plus 5% of the excess over $1,500,000.    
  Over $17,000,000$1,000,000.    
       
g Grassroots nontaxable amount (enter 25% of line 1f) .................    
h Subtract line 1g from line 1a. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................    
i Subtract line 1f from line 1c. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................    
j If there is an amount other than zero on either line 1h or line 1i, did the organization file Form 4720 reporting
section 4911 tax for this year? ......................................

4-Year Averaging Period Under Section 501(h)
(Some organizations that made a section 501(h) election do not have to complete all of the five
columns below. See the instructions for lines 2a through 2f on page 4.)
Lobbying Expenditures During 4-Year Averaging Period
  Calendar year (or fiscal year
beginning in) 		(a) 2008 (b) 2009 (c) 2010 (d) 2011 (e) Total
             
2a Lobbying non-taxable amount 201,701   90   201,791
             
b Lobbying ceiling amount
(150% of line 2a, column(e)) 		        302,687
             
c Total lobbying expenditures 1,230   448   1,678
             
d Grassroots nontaxable amount 50,425   23   50,448
             
e Grassroots ceiling amount
(150% of line 2d, column (e))		         75,672
             
f Grassroots lobbying expenditures          
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011


Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part II-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and has NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
For each “Yes” response to lines 1a through 1i below, provide in Part IV a detailed description of the lobbying activity.
(a)
Yes
No
(b)
Amount
1
During the year, did the filing organization attempt to influence foreign, national, state or local legislation, including any attempt to influence public opinion on a legislative matter or referendum, through the use of:
a
Volunteers? .........................................
 
 
b
Paid staff or management (include compensation in expenses reported on lines 1c through 1i)? ....
 
 
c
Media advertisements? ....................................
 
 
 
d
Mailings to members, legislators, or the public? .........................
 
 
 
e
Publications, or published or broadcast statements? .......................
 
 
 
f
Grants to other organizations for lobbying purposes? .......................
 
 
 
g
Direct contact with legislators, their staffs, government officials, or a legislative body? ........
 
 
 
h
Rallies, demonstrations, seminars, conventions, speeches, lectures, or any similar means? ......
 
 
 
i
Other activities? ..........................
 
 
 
j
Total. Add lines 1c through 1i ...............................
 
2a
Did the activities in line 1 cause the organization to be not described in section 501(c)(3)? .....
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred under section 4912 .................
 
c
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred by organization managers under section 4912 .....
 
d
If the filing organization incurred a section 4912 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? .......
 
 
Part III-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6).
Yes
No
1
Were substantially all (90% or more) dues received nondeductible by members? ................
1
 
 
2
Did the organization make only in-house lobbying expenditures of $2,000 or less? ................
2
 
 
3
Did the organization agree to carry over lobbying and political expenditures from the prior year? ..........
3
 
 
Part III-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6) and if either (a) BOTH Part III-A, lines 1 and 2 are answered “No” OR (b) Part III-A, line 3 is answered “Yes”.
1
Dues, assessments and similar amounts from members .....................
1
 
2
Section 162(e) nondeductible lobbying and political expenditures (do not include amounts of political
expenses for which the section 527(f) tax was paid).
a
Current year .........................................
2a
 
b
Carryover from last year ....................................
2b
 
c
Total ...........................................
2c
 
3
Aggregate amount reported in section 6033(e)(1)(A) notices of nondeductible section 162(e) dues .
3
 
4
If notices were sent and the amount on line 2c exceeds the amount on line 3, what portion of the excess does the organization agree to carryover to the reasonable estimate of nondeductible lobbying and political expenditure next year? ................................
4
 
5
Taxable amount of lobbying and political expenditures (see instructions) ..............
5
 
Part IV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part l-A, line 1; Part l-B, line 4; Part l-C, Part II-A; line 5; and Part ll-B, line 1.
Also, complete this part for any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," to Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990. SchDMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Employer identification number

41-1921126
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .......    
2 Aggregate contributions to (during year) ...    
3 Aggregate grants from (during year) ...    
4 Aggregate value at end of year .......    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ....................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................. 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register .................... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during
the tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and
enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? .............................
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section
170(h)(4)(B)(i) and 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? ....................................
9
In Part XIV, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of
art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education or research in furtherance of public service,
provide, in Part XIV, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art,
historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service,
provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ..............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), relating to these items:
a
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s accession and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection
items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIV.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?........
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIV and complete the following table:
Amount
c Beginning balance ................................. 1c  
d Additions during the year .............................. 1d  
e Distributions during the year ............................. 1e  
f Ending balance ................................... 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21? .....................
b
If “Yes,” explain the arrangement in Part XIV.
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current Year (b)Prior Year (c)Two Years Back (d)Three Years Back (e)Four Years Back
1a Beginning of year balance ....        
b Contributions ........        
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses ...        
d Grants or scholarships .....        
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ........ 		       
f Administrative expenses ....        
g End of year balance ......        
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the year end balance (line 1g) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet  
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages in lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations ........................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) related organizations ........................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" to 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIV the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis (investment) (b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .................      
b Buildings ................        
c Leasehold improvements ............        
d Equipment ................ 77,705   61,613 16,092
e Other .................        
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).).......SchDMdBullet 16,092
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
Other








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment type (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet  
Part X
Other Liabilities. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of Liability (b) Book value
Federal Income Taxes  








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet  
2. Fin 48 (ASC 740) Footnote. In Part XIV, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC740).
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets from Form 990 to Financial Statements
1 Total revenue (Form 990, Part VIII, column (A), line 12) .................... 1 1,970,718
2 Total expenses (Form 990, Part IX, column (A), line 25) ..................... 2 1,694,501
3 Excess or (deficit) for the year. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ............. 3 276,217
4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .......................... 4  
5 Donated services and use of facilities ............................. 5  
6 Investment expenses ................................... 6  
7 Prior period adjustments .................................. 7  
8 Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ................................. 8  
9 Total adjustments (net). Add lines 4 through 8 ......................... 9  
10 Excess or (deficit) for the year per financial statements. Combine lines 3 and 9 ......... 10 276,217
Part XII Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1 1,970,718
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains on investments .......... 2a  
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 1,970,718
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total Revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5 1,970,718
Part XIII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ............. 1 1,694,501
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities .......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments .............. 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d...................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3 1,694,501
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5 1,694,501
Part XIV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X; Part XI, line 8; Part XII, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XIII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Part X Part X : FIN48 Footnote The Organization has a tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and has adopted Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, ASC 740-10. The Organization's policy is to evaluate uncertain tax positions, at least annually, for the potential for income tax exposure from unrelated business income or from loss of nonprofit status. The Organization continues to operate consistent with its original exemption application and each year takes the necessary actions to maintain its exempt status. It has been classified as an organization that is not a private foundation under the Internal Revenue Code and charitable contributions by donors are tax deductible.
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2




SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
GREAT PLAINS INSTITUTE FOR SUSTAINABLE
DEVELOPMENT INC
Employer identification number

41-1921126
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Form 990, Part VI, Line 19 Form 990, Part VI, Line 19: Other Organization Documents Publicly Available Available upon request.
Form 990, Part VI, Line 15b Form 990, Part VI, Line 15b: Compensation Review and Approval Process for Officers and Key Employees Salary comparisions are done annually on all staff.
Form 990, Part VI, Line 12c Form 990, Part VI, Line 12c: Explanation of Monitoring and Enforcement of Conflicts THE DIRECTORS ARE ASKED ANNUALLY TO DISCLOSE IN ADDITION TO ANY INSTANCE THAT MAY CONSTITUTE A CONFLICT IN ANY BOARD DISCUSSION, VOTE OR CONTRACT NEGOTIATION. DIRECTORS ARE REQUESTED TO ABSTAIN FROM VOTING ON ANY DECLARED CONFLICT and employees are requested to refrain from active participation in any negotiation involving a delcared conflict.
Form 990, Part VI, Line 11 Form 990, Part VI, Line 11: Form 990 Review Process THE 990 IS REVIEWED FIRST BY THE AUDIT COMMITTEE WHO WORKS WITH THE AUDITORS IN ITS PREPARATION. THE 990 IS THEN PROVIDED IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT PRIOR TO A REGULAR BOARD MEETING AT WHICH TIME THE BOARD DISCUSSES THE CONTENT WITH THE AUDIT COMMITTEE AND AUDITORS BEFORE A VOTE OF APPROVAL IS TAKEN. THE 990 IS SIGNED ONLY AFTER A VOTE OF APPROVAL.
Form 990, Part VI, Line 4 Form 990, Part VI, Line 4: Description of Significant Changes to Organizational Documents Change in the by laws in regards to the signing of contracts and fiduciary instruments Previous Language of By Laws:"Contracts, documents or any instruments in writing requiring the signature of the corporation, shall be signed by any two officers and all contracts, documents and instruments in writing so signed shall be binding on the corporation without any further authorization or formality."New Language Adopted 9/29/11"Contracts, documents or any instruments in writing requiring the signature of the corporation, shall be signed by the Institute's Executive Director or, if unavailable, any two officers of the corporation. All contracts, documents and instruments in writing, so signed, shall be binding on the corporation without any further authorization or formality." On a quarterly basis, the Executive Director shall provide the board a listing of all new contracts, documents and instruments whose value is $25,000 or greater, for both the past quarter and next quarter.
Form 990, Part III, Line 4d Form 990, Part III, Line 4d : Other Program Services Description OTHER PROGRAM SERVICES 4: Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Communities1.Fostered closer cooperation and mutual learning among statewide sustainable communities programs in Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin. The goal of the collaboration is to improve programs in all three states through shared learning and to better assist communities to adopt economic development, quality of life and environmental sustainability practices. Holding one meeting this fiscal year, GPI brought together representatives of state and federal agencies, University Extension, local sustainability directors, and NGOs to share information about best practices, evaluation results, and metrics, shortening the learning curve for all three participating states.2.Helped grow Minnesota's statewide GreenStep Cities program, governed by a public-private partnership among the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), League of Minnesota Cities, and several other organizations. GreenStep Cities is a voluntary challenge, assistance and recognition program based upon 28 best practices to help cities achieve their sustainability and quality-of-life goals. GPI was one of several organizations that collaborated to start the program, which now has 49 cities enrolled. GPI facilitates partner meetings, coordinates NGO participation, provides direct assistance to communities, and assists with program development, data collection and analysis. The GreenStep Cities program received two Environmental Initiative Awards, including partnership of the year. Top actions completed by cites include building energy efficiency measures, energy efficient purchasing, expanding access to local food, and water conservation, among others. 3.Led the Midwestern Governors Association's Industrial Energy Efficiency Initiative, aimed at improving the competitiveness of Midwestern industry. The goal of the initiative was to raise the visibility of the industrial energy efficiency opportunity and to highlight the region's workforce, energy and manufacturing assets, and financial and natural resources that are available to support the growth of industrial energy efficiency in the Midwest. GPI organized and facilitated the initiative's meetings; co-sponsored an event called The Size of the Prize: Midwest Industrial Energy Efficiency Summit with IL Governor Quinn as the keynote speaker and attended by over 100 participants; and co-authored a report titled Midwest Manufacturing Snapshot: Energy Use and Efficiency Policies.4.Helped identify ways to improve energy efficiency financing in the Midwest. GPI collaborated with the Center on Wisconsin Strategies at the University of Wisconsin Madison to lead a study of the opportunities for Midwestern NGOs to improve energy efficiency financing options in the region. GPI coordinated the study, provided research assistance, facilitated a one-day meeting of Midwestern NGOs and co-authored a final report. 5.Researched the potential to increase energy efficiency lending by community development finance institutions (CDFIs) in collaboration with Harcourt Brown & Carey Energy & Finance. This entailed conducting a series of interviews of CDFIs, foundations, government agencies, efficiency service providers, and others. GPI and HBC held a full day meeting of practitioners to facilitate information-sharing, identify barriers and co-authored a final report. 6.Began an in-depth investigation of opportunities to expand energy efficiency financing in the industrial sector. During this fiscal year, GPI conducted background research through a literature review and a series of interviews on available financing, industry needs, and barriers to increased uptake of industrial energy efficiency and combined heat and power.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000144
Software Version: 2011v1.2