We recently wrapped up our Small Business Lending Forums—three events focused on supporting small business growth in southwest Minnesota. The forums took place in Worthington, Hutchinson and Appleton, highlighting information and education about non-traditional lending and technical assistance for entrepreneurs and small businesses owners.
Archives for April 2024
Kids First Conference champions child care providers
Life for working families wouldn’t be the same without our amazing child care providers in southwest Minnesota. They take such good care of our kids. But the job can feel lonely sometimes, and it can be hard to find training or connect with other providers. That’s where the Kids First Conference comes in. The Kids First Conference is designed to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication of our child care professionals, expressing our sincere appreciation for the care they consistently offer to children and families. This yearly event also provides required training hours for providers.
Five ways to appreciate child care providers
Want to know how important child care providers are in southwest Minnesota? Ask a working family or a local employer, and they’ll tell you early childhood professionals are key in keeping life running smoothly during working hours. We asked providers in our region what meaningful things people can do to show their appreciation. Based on what they shared, here are five ways to show your appreciation for local child care providers.
Olivia Floral, Gift and Garden Center set to grow
Nicole Johnson is expanding her business, Olivia Floral, Gift and Garden Center, with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program. Olivia Floral is a full-service floral and gift shop that creates custom flower, gift and garden arrangements and offers quality products for special occasions, seasonal projects and everyday events. Nikki’s parents and grandfather have been business owners in the town for more than 50 years, so entrepreneurship runs in the family.
Balaton Area Community Foundation grants pass $200,000 mark
The Balaton Area Community Foundation (BACF) made its first grant in 2010 for playground equipment at Legion Lion Park. Recent grants include upgrades to the park at the lake, the fire department and ambulance and a major renovation at the community center, featuring new flooring, new interior paint and new tables. With all those projects and many more, BACF has granted a total of $200,120.
Responding to the closure of our local newspapers
A strong local press is foundational to a healthy democracy. Local newspapers provide vital information about our community, holding institutions accountable and fostering civic engagement. They also tell the stories about our neighbors that help us all build a shared sense of belonging. Their absence creates an information gap that can leave residents feeling disconnected and uninformed.
