SMIFoundation

To achieve an entrepreneurial culture, we need the assets and involvement of every person in our 20-county region. To open new channels, improve quality of life and achieve parity of opportunity for minority populations, we support minority-owned businesses with specialized assistance and some priority funding.

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation business services are available to all qualified applicants. They include start-up business consulting, growth management, financing, and community partnerships that strengthen minority-owned businesses. These programs are described in detail in the Entrepreneurs section of this website.

Regarding business development and minority success, we stand on this vision:

• Employers will create work places where all workers can function safely, effectively, and efficiently. As a result, they will meet competitive challenges.


• All workers will have a fair opportunity to fulfill career goals and grow wealth. They will become self-sufficient.


• All community members will know that opportunities and services are equal.

In the area of business development, we all succeed when:

• Southern Minnesota’s many resources are used to commercialize bioscience applications


• Entrepreneurs have the resources they need to grow and contribute


• A greater number of innovative, profitable businesses are active in our region


• We achieve sustainable economic growth

The Foundation strives for these results.