The Initiators Fellowship is recruiting for its 2026-2027 cohort. The two-year program provides a suite of supports for emerging entrepreneurs in Greater Minnesota whose business idea includes a socially beneficial outcome. The Initiators Fellowship application is open May 1 to June 16 at fellows.greaterminnesota.net.
News Releases
TJ Petals & More
Trenna Jeppesen has opened TJ Petals & More with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program. Trenna purchased the real estate and business assets of Olivia Floral and Garden from owner Nicole Johnson. The store began in 1954 as Olivia Floral and has been a staple in the community ever since.
Tuition assistance available for trainings offered through Propel Nonprofits
We are partnering with Propel Nonprofits to provide opportunities for training and professional development for staff, board members, and committee volunteers engaged with nonprofit organizations located in southwest Minnesota.
Woodgrain Custom Builds
Kevin Veldhuisen is reimagining his small business with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Microenterprise Loan Program. Veldhuisen opened Woodgrain Custom Builds (originally named The Creation Workshop) in 2015. His woodworking career started even earlier in 2007 when he bought his first miter saw and started building simple furnishings for his wife, Anne, and their family.
Claire Meyers joins staff
Claire Meyers of Sleepy Eye has joined Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) staff as Entrepreneurship Program Manager. In this role, Meyers will lead entrepreneurship, business education and technical assistance programs and initiatives for the nonprofit community foundation.
El Chilero Auto Repair
Entrepreneur Jose Lopez is expanding his auto repair business with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program and DEED’s Minnesota Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program. El Chilero Auto Repair is located in the heart of Litchfield at 526 North Ramsey Avenue.
