To reduce paper and expedite the application process, please submit your letter via e-mail to [email protected].  If you do not have access to e-mail, send your letter to Southwest Initiative Foundation, PO Box 428, Hutchinson, MN  55350.

Letters received by the first of the month will be reviewed that month.  If your project fits the Foundation's priority areas and meets our guidelines, you may be invited to submit a final application.  An invitation to submit a final application does not guarantee a grant award.  If we cannot fund your project, we may be able to suggest other potential sources of funding.

Grant Guidelines

All proposals must demonstrate a benefit within the following 18 counties in southwest Minnesota:  Big Stone, Chippewa, Cottonwood, Jackson, Kandiyohi, Lac qui Parle, Lincoln, Lyon, McLeod, Meeker, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Redwood, Renville, Rock, Swift, and Yellow Medicine.  The Foundation prefers projects that begin with a local vision to best meet local needs and that the applicant is located within the southwest Minnesota area.

• Targeted and diverse populations are involved early in the development of the proposed project and throughout the implementation (i.e. youth, older adults, and various interest groups).

• Proposals incorporate an innovative approach and avoid duplication of efforts.

• Proposals have clearly-stated goals and measurable outcomes.

• Proposals must exhibit evidence of appropriate partnerships.  Final applications need to include letters of support from involved agencies, organizations, and individuals that clearly outline their support and contributions to the project.  

• Grants generally range from $1,000 to $20,000.  The Foundation will consider funding up to 50 percent of a project.  The remaining 50 percent must be provided through other sources, including in-kind and cash contributions.

• Grant requests are considered for up to one year of funding.  Additional project funding may be considered annually and at a declining funding level for up to three years.

• Proposals must be submitted by a 501(c)(3) organization, a unit of government, or by a public agency.  Organizations that are not tax exempt must apply through a suitable fiscal agent willing to accept responsibility for the project.

• Churches and religious organizations may apply for support for activities that benefit the larger community, but not for activities that have a sectarian religious purpose.

• Proposals must show evidence of one or more ways to continue the project beyond SWIF funding.

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