What We Do

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF), a donor-supported foundation, invests for economic growth in south central and southeastern Minnesota, serving a 20-county region which includes 175 communities and one Native nation. SMIF’s key interests include entrepreneurship, early childhood development and community vitality. SMIF invests through grantmaking, lending, trainings and more.

We got our start in the farm crisis of the 1980s to help diversify Greater Minnesota economies and ensure vibrant communities for future generations. 

We invest about $5 million annually and also act as a regional collaborator. SMIF has invested over $186 million in the region since 1986.

See the impact SMIF has had on your community by clicking the button below.

Our Impact
small town grantmaking in minnesota
Lending program for small businesses minority business owners Minnesota
Free books distributed to young children in southern Minnesota through grantmaking
Lending to small business CannonBelles Cheese in Cannon Falls Minnesota
AmeriCorps service working with kids Minnesota
Free books distributed to young children in southern Minnesota through grantmaking
Sprout event in Winona
Sprout event in Dundas
Grant funding for early care and education in Minnesota