Helping Central Minnesota people build and sustain thriving communities
How Can We Help You?
The Initiative Foundation works daily to strengthen the economy and communities of Central Minnesota. Choose an option: Let’s work together to bring greater opportunity and prosperity to all.
Subscribe to IQ Magazine
Subscribe to IQ Magazine now to receive the spring edition. Dropping in April, the spring edition includes an update on the community response in Becker and Sherburne County to Xcel Energy’s 10-year plan to decommission its Sherco coal-fired power plants. The edition explores the reach and impact of a special round of 2024 grants to alleviate loneliness and social isolation and features a profile of Wanetta Thompson, who is building cultural and community bridges through Bear Paws Cultural Art.
Register: Upcoming Trainings
The Initiative Foundation offers trainings for business owners and nonprofit volunteers and staff throughout the year. Business owners can learn about everything from bookkeeping to marketing. Nonprofit board and staff can attend sessions on branding and finances. A slate of new training opportunities has been added for 2025, but continue to check back.
Support for Your Business
Lending programs at the Initiative Foundation go beyond just providing capital. As a certified Community Development Financial Institution, or CDFI, we also provide business support to help borrowers succeed. Support can come in many forms, from business planning and credit counseling to other forms of education.
Lending: A Mission to Serve
By providing access to capital and support to borrowers, CDFIs like the Initiative Foundation help to create opportunities for economic growth and empowerment in disadvantaged areas.
Making a Difference in Central Minnesota—With Your Support
Supported by your generosity, the Initiative Foundation since its founding in 1986 has invested multiple millions into Central Minnesota through grants, loans and programming.
$71 Million
Through 10,675 grants delivered to schools, nonprofits and local units of government
Latest News
Relief Fund Supports Wadena Residents Displaced by Fire
The Initiative Foundation has partnered with community leaders to establish the Wadena Fire Recovery Fund following a 12-unit apartment fire on Sunday night that killed… Read More
Five Join Initiative Foundation Board of Trustees
The Initiative Foundation is pleased to announce that Tracy Bertram, Hara Charlier, Larry Dietz, Hudda Ibrahim, and Justin Jahnz have been appointed to its board… Read More
Trombley Named Vice President for Community
The Initiative Foundation is pleased to announce Amy Trombley as its new vice president for community. Trombley brings a wealth of experience in community development,… Read More