While SMIF’s programming has changed over the years, the Foundation has been doing work in the areas of Community Vitality, Early Childhood and Economic Development since its inception. The earliest investments made in these areas include the following:
- First Community Vitality investment to George Marti Memorial Performing Arts Center to develop a museum on the Schell’s Brewery Grounds in New Ulm. Today, SMIF invests $1.4 million or more annually in Community Vitality.
- First Early Childhood investment to Childcare Resource and Referral in Rochester. Today, SMIF invests $1.8 million or more annually in Early Childhood.
- First Economic Development investments to: South Eastern Minnesota Development Corp. (currently called CEDA) in Rushford, Economic Partners for Southeastern MN in Rochester, Small Business Development Center. Today, SMIF invests $2.1 million or more annually in Economic Development.
