Today’s approach to career and technical education in southwest Minnesota is an evolving network of partners all leaning in to strengthen students’ ties to the region and open their eyes to the possibilities around them. Southwest Initiative Foundation and all its funds have invested more than $1 million in career pathways work since 2017, from sponsoring major career expos drawing hundreds of students to the purchase of welding safety equipment and funding hands-on FFA experiences.
Economic Development
Celebrating 10 Business Reinvention cohorts
We recently wrapped up the 10th Business Reinvention cohort with our partners redstar marketing un/academy! This program has been a game-changer for dozens of Southwest Initiative Foundation loan clients. Business Reinvention brings together up to eight businesses for a unique, collaborative workshop experience. The team at redstar marketing un/academy guides passionate entrepreneurs through a hands-on process to assess the current business landscape and craft a fresh vision for the future.
Briana Mumme
Briana Mumme has joined Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) staff as economic development manager. In this role, Mumme will help craft and implement innovative programs spanning business finance, entrepreneurship, workforce initiatives and regional economic development. Prior to joining SWIF, she served as the economic development coordinator for Redwood County.
Concrete Joe Construction
Joe DeVlaeminck is building his own business on the foundation of the former Tom Bofferding Construction company, which he purchased last year. Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program helped DeVlaeminck complete the purchase and launch Concrete Joe Construction, specializing in residential concrete work, from putting up foundation walls to flat work such as driveways, sidewalks and stamped slabs.
Functional Nutrition
Tyler DeCesare opened Functional Nutrition in December with help from Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program. The new small business on Luverne’s Main Street is a one-stop shop for vitamins, supplements, sports nutrition, protein shakes, ready-to-eat fit meals and smoothie bowls.
Pink Apron Bakery
MacKenzie Dohmann opened the doors to Pink Apron Bakery in November, just in time for the sweet season of holiday treats. Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Microenterprise Loan Program provided working capital for the startup, which specializes in breads, bagels and unique cookies and confections.