Meet Briana
Southwest Minnesota Community Capital Director
The foundation’s unwavering belief in the future where all people thrive inspires Briana. Our values, like inclusion, integrity, and collaboration, deeply align with her own, making the work feel not just meaningful, but personally authentic. We don’t just offer resources; we build relationships and possibilities.
Briana’s love and passion for rural southwest Minnesota runs deep, even though she grew up in a large suburban community. She draws inspiration from the incredible people in our region whose dedication, resilience and hard work fuel the growth and vitality of the region.
Briana’s journey into economic development began in 2017, driven by her commitment to community service. The field offers a meaningful path to connect with diverse people, build lasting relationships, and contribute to initiatives that strengthen communities.
In her role, Briana is leading the certification, launch and implementation of SWIF’s subsidiary, Southwest Minnesota Community Capital (SMCC), an emerging Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). In alignment with SWIF’s mission-driven small business lending practices, SMCC will provide affordable lending, financial services and development support to underserved communities across the region that lack access to traditional banking. This work is a natural extension of Briana’s experience in economic development and her passion for supporting entrepreneurs and community growth. While certification is still in progress, she is energized by the opportunity to help deliver financial tools and opportunities where they are needed most.
Briana currently serves on several state and regional boards focused on economic and community development, including the Governor’s Task Force on Broadband, the Minnesota Agriculture and Economic Development Board, the Center for Rural Policy and Development Board, and the Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership Board. She is a past president of the Minnesota Association of Professional County Economic Developers and currently serves as vice president of LINC Redwood County, a local nonprofit leadership program.
Briana makes her home in Franklin, where she and her husband are raising their two children. In her free time, she enjoys staying active attending bungee fitness classes, exploring new places and spending time with her family and friends.
