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.
Join Our Team!
Could this be you? The Initiative Foundation is now searching for its next vice president for community. We’re partnering with executive search firm Ballinger | Leafblad and encourage you to explore this opportunity today. Enjoy an excellent compensation and benefits package as you help to fulfill our team-based mission to build a thriving economy, vibrant communities, and a lasting culture of generosity for all who call Central Minnesota home.
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
Foundations Award More Than $21,000 in Rural Poverty Grants
The Central Minnesota Community Foundation and the Initiative Foundation are awarding $21,600 to five area organizations, through their jointly held Rural Poverty Grant Round. The… Read More
Foundation Welcomes Gray in Community Philanthropy Role
The Initiative Foundation is pleased to announce that Amy Gray has joined the team as community philanthropy manager. Gray has an extensive background in nonprofit… Read More
Foundation Awards Nearly $1.9 Million During Second Quarter
The Initiative Foundation and its hosted Partner Funds delivered 164 grants during the second quarter of 2024 totaling $1.87 million. Supported by the PROMISE Act… Read More