Initiative Foundation

Big News: The Initiative Foundation’s nonprofit capacity-building grants are open through April 1! Nonprofits with budgets of $1 million or less can apply for grants to strengthen their organization. We support nonprofits that boost local economies, build a strong workforce and add vibrancy to the region. Think your nonprofit is a fit? Apply now: https://lnkd.in/gB8EBSHy Returning applicants: We have a new portal! Learn more here: https://lnkd.in/gBgauWvT Pictured: Jerry Sparby of the Yes Network. The St. Cloud nonprofit received an Initiative Foundation planning grant.

Initiative Foundation staff recently showed off their chili-making chops. (And soup, too.) After some serious taste-testing, Deb Kurowski took the win and the custom-made chili-bowl trophy with her white chicken chili. But, honestly, we all won by enjoying the variety of chilis, soups and wonderful sides. It was such a hit that we’re already stirring up plans for next year’s cook-off!

A special thanks to our $5,000 Community Builders Circle members. Your generous support ensures that the Initiative Foundation can continue to provide lending services to grow and diversify the regional economy. Northern Hollow Winery in Foley partnered on an Initiative Foundation loan to break ground on a 10,000-square-foot production facility and event center. Pictured: Initiative Foundation lending team members with winery owners Deanna and Jim Truehart. Thanks to Schlagel Manufacturing Inc., CentraCare, Stearns Electric Association, and U.S. Bank! To learn how you can become a Community Builders Circle member, visit https://lnkd.in/gibnee2j

An alumna of the 2022-2023 Initiators Fellowship, Kris Shelsad used her time in the program to launch the Madison Art and Innovation Center—a space for all people in her hometown of Madison, Minn. Watch the video to learn more: vimeo.com/873510469 "I think the biggest resource is the connections you make," Kris said. "That's not something that ends when the Fellowship ends, and for that I'm very, very grateful." The application for the 2026-2027 Initiators Fellowship cohort opens on May 1. Learn more and share this opportunity with social entrepreneurs in your network: https://lnkd.in/gMJcAzWc. Northwest Minnesota Foundation, Southwest Initiative Foundation, West Central Initiative

Everyone seems to know Don Hickman, outgoing Initiative Foundation vice president for community and workforce development. For 25 years, Don has been a community and workforce champion, earning a well-deserved reputation across Central Minnesota —and beyond—as a bridge-builder and problem-solver. His impact on the region is undeniable. In the spring edition of IQ Magazine, read about Don's legacy and the passing of the torch to Amy Trombley, new vice president for community. Hickman will continue in a part-time community development program officer role with the Foundation. Subscribe to IQ Magazine: https://lnkd.in/g883Gpuf

Paws and Claws Rescue & Resort, an animal shelter and boarding facility in Hackensack, has been bringing joy to local nursing homes and assisted living facilities by introducing pets to residents. It’s a perfect combination—the animals are waiting to be adopted and the residents relish the attention. This project was funded by the Initiative Foundation’s 2024 grant round to alleviate loneliness and social isolation. Subscribe to IQ Magazine to read about more of the grants: https://lnkd.in/g883Gpuf The next edition drops in mid April!

We’re sending a big thank-you today to our $5,000 Community Builders Circle members! Your donations ensure that the Initiative Foundation can partner with state and federal funders to send dollars to downtowns and local businesses across Central Minnesota. Long Prairie's Long Drive-In Theater received funding through the Initiative Foundation-administered Minnesota Main Street Economic Revitalization program to make customer-friendly improvements and updates. Thanks to Anderson Brothers Construction Company of Brainerd, LLC, Bremer Bank, Compeer Financial and Falcon National Bank! To learn how you can become a Community Builders Circle member, visit https://lnkd.in/gibnee2j

Attention nonprofit and local government staff: The Initiative Foundation and Sourcewell are bringing back the Performance Excellence Network for a Continuous Improvement cohort starting in March. Join other Central Minnesota nonprofits and local units of government for this hands-on learning opportunity. Transform your organization and create lasting impact! Ready to start your journey toward continuous improvement? Learn more and apply today: https://lnkd.in/gw2EfE-j The first of five sessions begins March 27! Read stories of continuous improvement success in the fall 2024 edition of IQ Magazine: https://lnkd.in/gb7NhRUY

Support Wadena residents: The Initiative Foundation has partnered with community leaders to establish the Wadena Fire Recovery Fund following a 12-unit apartment fire on Sunday, Feb. 16, that left one man dead and displaced nearly a dozen other people. Give today to help individuals and the community recover from this devastating loss: https://lnkd.in/g3nSw8p2 “Right now, we’ve got folks who are displaced,” said Nate Loer, pastor at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Wadena. “A very rapid evacuation was needed. In terms of material possessions, they’ve lost everything.” Learn more: https://lnkd.in/guyaVT57 Photo courtesty of Wadena Chamber of Commerce. Wadena Pioneer Journal; WADENA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE