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.
entrepreneur
Downtown New London welcomes flyleaf book shop
NEW LONDON, Minn. — Heather King is making space for books and community at her new flyleaf book shop in downtown New London. Loan assistance from the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s
KCEO to Host Fundraiser
Last fall we told you about Creating Entrepreneurial Opportunities and the program in Kandiyohi County schools. Students of the Kandiyohi CEO (KCEO) program are working on their business plans as they tour
Talking Smart: Interviews with SWIF Loan Clients
Our entrepreneurship/microloan team never slows down, which is good news for our SWIF loan clients. When I stop to think about the number of people we’ve helped start, expand or
There’s Something Special About Southwest Minnesota Entrepreneurs
SWIF has always been committed to supporting entrepreneurs and economic development. We know that the health of our entire region relies on a strong economic base. And, we always hear
An Expanding Dairy Industry in Southwest Minnesota
So, where do you think the cheese on a McDonald’s cheeseburger comes from? Would you guess southwest Minnesota? If yes, you’re right! A successful company in Litchfield (a community in