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Southwest Initiative Foundation / Building Communities

Building Communities

Building a Region Where Every Neighbor Thrives

Southwest Minnesota’s communities flourish when neighbors feel like valued members of the place they call “home,” can dream big, and accomplish goals for themselves and their families. We strengthen these connections by fostering leadership, supporting local initiatives, and creating spaces where everyone belongs. 

Four adults stand closely together in a warmly lit restaurant, smiling at the camera. All wear name tags and casual clothes. Other people are visible in the background, with hanging lights and wall art decorating the space.

Leadership

The people who live and work in our region are our communities’ greatest assets. Through convenings, training, and programs, we help community members step into leadership roles and adopt a mindset that drives positive change. 

Learn about leadership opportunities

Grants

Grants are at the heart of our role as a community foundation. We support projects and ideas that help build resilient communities. Most grants are made through our designated funds and community foundation partners. We also act as an intermediary partner, attracting resources from outside our region. 

Explore Grant Opportunities

Nonprofit resources 

Nonprofit organizations, big and small, are addressing critical needs in Southwest Minnesota. We offer educational training and resources to strengthen their work. 

Access Nonprofit Training and Resources

Belonging

We believe our communities are strongest when all people can fully participate in our region’s opportunities. We bring people together to engage in community-led belonging initiatives to build and sustain vibrant and welcoming communities. This work includes the Paul and Alma Schwan Aging Trust Fund that supports productive aging in our region. 


For more information

Nancy Fasching, Vice President of Community Impact 
Email Nancy or call (320) 484-9104 

Help build a region where all people can thrive.

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Southwest Initiative Foundation is located on the original and contemporary homelands of the Dakota people in Minnesota.

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