After completing the grant-funded Age Friendly Communities program, Winsted launched the “Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL)” exercise program two and a half years ago, starting with one class on Mondays and Fridays. Within 5 months it was so popular, they needed to start a second class. This September, they launched a third.
News
SMCC loan supports Hutchinson dancer, entrepreneur
Tatyana Wittman has been dancing since she was 2. She turned her lifelong passion into a business this year, opening Synergy Dance Project in the Hutchinson Mall. This Gen Z founder has always been inspired by the idea of synergy, how people work better together. A loan from Southwest Minnesota Community Capital helped pave the way. This emerging Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) is a subsidiary of Southwest Initiative Foundation.
Celebrating Kids Rock! Child Care Center
On May 28, a red ribbon snapped in half between giant scissors as a large group of supporters cheered in Luverne. Kids Rock! Child Care Center was ready to welcome kids and families with quality, affordable child care, truly something to celebrate. In fiscal year 2025, SWIF invested more than half a million in southwest Minnesota’s child care providers and businesses, supporting start-up expenses, technical assistance, professional development and other critical operational needs.
Loan Client Mocha Motion in Hutchinson
Mocha Motion is a mobile coffee trailer fueled by passion, community, and a deep love for coffee. Founder Heather Finnell, based in Hutchinson, is new to entrepreneurship and received funding and support from our Microenterprise Loan Program to launch her business.
Grant for lifesaving training in Clara City
Our partner the Clara City Area Community Foundation made a grant to the local ambulance service for developing a CPR class guide and toolkit to expand community training efforts. In 2025, instructor Ben Schoep led his first class in Clara City—recertifying a local daycare provider. That training means faster, more confident responses to emergencies involving the youngest community members.
Loan Client Holly’s Aesthetics and Spa in Montevideo
After two years of dedication, hard work, and planning, Holly Schwendemann has opened the doors to Holly’s Aesthetics and Spa in her hometown. Born from a lifelong passion for skincare and self-care, this new space is more than just a business; it’s the culmination of a dream built with love, persistence, and a whole lot of paint.
