Seven golf clubs founded the Minnesota Golf Association in 1901, creating an organization designed to uphold and promote the game of golf and its values for all golfers in Minnesota. Since its inception, the MGA has produced a long list of services oriented toward the golfer, the golf course and the game itself.
The first of those services was the competitive golfing event, the Amateur Championship. First played at the conclusion of the MGA's inaugural meeting, the Amateur is one of the oldest and longest running sporting events in the state. It has become a popular tradition with the top amateur golfers competing annually. The growth of golf has prompted the addition of events to the MGA's championship schedule. There are now another 16 MGA amateur championships for golfers of all ages and abilities. They include the Mid-Amateur, Players' Championship, Senior Players' Championship, Four-Ball, Senior Amateur, Senior Four-Ball, Mixed Amateur, the Gross Team Championship and the Net Team Championship.
For junior golfers, the MGA sponsors a statewide junior program. Each junior team competes on a district level. Those teams that finish in the top of their respective district qualify for the MGA Junior Team Championship. Additionally, the MGA hosts the Minnesota State Junior Boys' Championship and assists with the Minnesota State Junior Girls' Championship.