Building on the insights gathered during our initial child care listening sessions, Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) hosted a second round of conversations this year focused on the updated draft of Minnesota’s child care licensing standards.
Stories
Southwest Initiative Foundation receives CoBank Rural Prosperity Grant
Southwest Initiative Foundation is one of eight national recipients of CoBank’s new Rural Prosperity Grant Program. The program is designed to foster sustainable rural development and enhance regional collaboration by providing grant funding to designated rural development hubs. In its inaugural year, CoBank has awarded $1.5 million in total unrestricted grants to organizations selected to serve as catalysts for positive change within their regions.
Introducing Southwest Minnesota Community Capital
Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) has formed a new subsidiary called Southwest Minnesota Community Capital with the goal of achieving certification as a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI). Pursuing CDFI certification marks a bold step forward in realizing our vision of a southwest Minnesota where all people thrive. This transformational initiative will deepen our impact and strengthen our role in advancing economic mobility for our region.
Loan client Town N’ Country Appliance, Inc.
Brent and Megan Bramstedts’ first loan with Southwest Initiative Foundation was 15 years ago when they needed help paying off debt. They said the loan was a “lifesaver” for their business. Since then, they have paid off that loan and taken out two additional loans. The most recent loan helped them purchase a new service truck, since servicing appliances makes up a large portion of their business.
Local grant supports Morton 4th of July
Southwest Minnesota’s summer festival season is in full swing. Many town celebrations in our region receive support from local community foundation grants. Last year, the Morton Area Community Foundation granted $1,800 to the City of Morton to help with the annual volleyball tournament at the 4th of July Celebration, paying for new nets and volleyballs.
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.
