Together we thrive in southwest Minnesota
For nearly 40 years, we’ve been listening to what matters most to southwest Minnesota. Through giving, economic development and community impact, we’re becoming a region where all people thrive.
We are a community of people who are passionate about making a difference in southwest Minnesota.
We are driven to innovate and find new ways to solve problems. We are generous with our time, our resources and our knowledge. And we are committed to building a vibrant region where everyone feels like they belong.
$58.7 million
in grants
$62.5 million
in loans
2025 Child Care Listening Sessions: Draft Two
We invite southwest Minnesota child care providers, economic development professionals, community leaders and champions of child care to attend a listening session to learn about and provide feedback, ideas and concerns regarding the second draft of licensing standards for child care centers published by the Department of Human Services as part of the Child Care Regulation Modernization Projects.
What makes a leader?
In the face of challenges including addiction and incarceration, Mark Stewart has persevered. After suffering the loss of his partner, Taylor Joy, to mental illness, something clicked for him, and he has been relentlessly serving his community since then. A nontraditional leadership journey like Mark’s has steep highs and lows. He has kept going through them all.
Where are they now? Southwest Minnesota Initiators Fellows
Are you ready to turn your passion for social change into a thriving enterprise? The Initiators Fellowship is here to help you. We’ve gathered stories from our southwest Minnesota Initiators Fellows past and present to give you an idea of where the fellowship could take you!
Keep Reading Where are they now? Southwest Minnesota Initiators Fellows
Our work can look different from one program, partnership or place to another. Our values guide our work and ensure we bring the same care and commitment everywhere we show up.
