PRESS RELEASE
Southwest Initiative Foundation partners with Propel Nonprofits to build capacity for southwest Minnesota nonprofit organizations
HUTCHINSON, Minn – Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is 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.
Propel Nonprofits is a Minnesota-based certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) that provides capacity-building services and access to capital to support nonprofits in achieving their missions, including the ability to link strategy, governance, and finance.
With this exciting new partnership, nonprofit organizations are eligible for tuition assistance to attend Propel’s training offerings. To be eligible, the nonprofit must be headquartered in the 18 counties of SWIF’s service area, including Caŋṡayapi Oyate (Lower Sioux Indian Community) and Peżihutazizi Oyate (Upper Sioux Community). Staff, board members, and committee volunteers are eligible attendees. Organizations that are in the formation process of becoming a nonprofit are encouraged to apply.
Strong nonprofits are essential to a thriving region where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. That’s why SWIF supports the growth and success of nonprofits with resources for training, leadership development and funding.
“Propel Nonprofits is a tremendous resource for nonprofit organizations in Minnesota, at all stages of an organization’s lifecycle. Propel staff bring excellence, subject matter expertise, passion, and a servant heart to all interactions with their clients. I am grateful for Propel’s investments of financial capital and expertise into the sector,” said SWIF President Scott Marquardt.
Interested organizations should first visit Propel’s training website and Propel’s Leaders Circle website at to learn more about the opportunities.
Applications must be approved by SWIF staff prior to registration in order to receive tuition assistance.
Tuition assistance may cover up to 100 percent of the cost to attend, with a maximum of $500 per application. Priority will be given to opportunities that begin by June 30, 2025. We encourage nonprofit organizations led by or who serve veterans, persons with disabilities, women, indigenous people, and persons of color to apply, in addition to nonprofit child care organizations.
If you have questions, please contact Amy Brustuen at [email protected] or (320) 552-2331.
About Southwest Initiative Foundation
Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is a nonprofit community foundation connecting people, investing in ideas and building communities to create a southwest Minnesota where all people thrive. Since its founding in 1986, SWIF has distributed more than $120 million through its grantmaking and business finance programs.
