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.
Apply: Enterprise Academy
The next cohorts of the Initiative Foundation’s Enterprise Academy will be held this fall in Long Prairie, Mille Lacs and St. Cloud. Enterprise Academy is the single-largest early-stage entrepreneur training program in Central Minnesota. At the heart of the program is a 12-week business course that provides training and individualized advising to help underserved entrepreneurs start and grow small businesses.
Subscribe to IQ Magazine
In the fall 2024 edition of IQ Magazine, we’ll feature profiles of six emerging entrepreneurs, examine the implications of generational wealth transfer, and learn about local nonprofits getting a boost through Otto Bremer Trust funding administered by the Initiative Foundation.
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
Initiative Foundation Special Grant Round Awards $750,000
The Initiative Foundation is pleased to announce the award of 19 grants totaling $750,000 to Central Minnesota nonprofits. These grants are being awarded through a… Read More
Twenty-one Graduate From St. Cloud Enterprise Academy Class
Entrepreneurs’ business-building ambitions include a media company, auto body business and athletics academy The Initiative Foundation is celebrating the graduation of 21 new entrepreneurs who… Read More
2024 Emerging Entrepreneur Showcase & Awards
The Initiative Foundation invites the public to the 2024 Emerging Entrepreneur Showcase & Awards from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, at The… Read More