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Southwest Initiative Foundation

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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.

GIVING
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMUNITY IMPACT
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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.

JOIN US – MAKE YOUR GIFT TODAY!

IMPACT

Investing in Our Region Since 1986

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$58.7 million

in grants

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$62.5 million

in loans

READ ABOUT OUR IMPACT

WHAT’S NEW

Stories From Southwest Minnesota

The pool is full of people on a summer day, with a yellow slide in the foreground.

Summer pool pass scholarship helps kids beat the heat

Nothing compares to a day at the pool during southwest Minnesota’s hot summer months. The Pipestone Area Community Foundation helped more kids get in the water last summer with a grant supporting a unique program: The City of Pipestone Ewert Recreation Department provides assistances for qualifying families to purchase swimming lessons and aquatic passes for their children.

Keep Reading Summer pool pass scholarship helps kids beat the heat

Join us for a Summer Social!

You’re invited! Our Summer Socials are free, open-house style, and include snacks and refreshments. Come to mingle with old and new friends, and to learn updates about our work and local partnerships.

Keep Reading Join us for a Summer Social!

Lori stands inside her boutique, The Gift II, in Canby.

The Gift II

Lori Varcoe has opened The Gift II in Canby with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program. A longtime employee of the original boutique, The Gift, Varcoe purchased the business and updated its name. The Gift II offers clothing, décor, gifts, permanent jewelry and furniture. Varcoe also provides consignment opportunities for local artists and fellow small business owners.

Keep Reading The Gift II

VALUES

Guided by Our Values

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.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR VALUES

Help build a region where all people can thrive.

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15 3rd Avenue NW | Hutchinson, MN 55350 | (320) 587-4848| Email Us

Southwest Initiative Foundation is located on the original and contemporary homelands of the Dakota people in Minnesota.

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