News Releases
Please click on the news release link below you would like to view, or scroll further down the page to view the entire news release. By clicking on the date link you will be brought to the point in the page where that news release appears.
- March 14, 2008
“Great Boards for Nonprofit Organizations” Seminar Offered by Southwest Initiative Foundation and Bremer Bank
- March 4, 2008
"Tacos Lupe" in Worthington Receives Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
- February 29, 2008
Advisory Board of Lismore Area Community Foundation Seated on Wednesday
- February 19, 2008
Southwest Initiative Foundation Offers Free Seminar for Business Owners
- February 19, 2008
Certificate in Volunteer Leadership Offered through New Training Series
"Beans Plus, Inc." Expands in Hutchinson with Loan Assistance from SWIF
- January 25, 2008
Southwest Initiative Foundation Offers Free Seminar for Business Owners
- January 18, 2008
"Simply Style" Opens in Hutchinson with Loan Assistance from SWIF
- January 8, 2008
New London Selected to Participate in SWIF’s Connected Communities Partnership
Applications Available for Valspar’s Minnesota Beautiful Program
“Famous Davis” Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
- January 2, 2007
“Weddings by Jeni” Opens with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
- December 21, 2007
“Tracy Computer and Office Supply” Receives Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
“Windom Bakery” Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
“Mr. B. Chocolatier” Moves and Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
Southwest Initiative Foundation Mini-Documentary "Just Imagine" Available for Viewing
- December 3, 2007
Southwest Initiative Foundation Names New Senior Program Officer for Economic Advancement
“Todd’s Appliance Service” Opens in Redwood Falls with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
March 14, 2008
“Great Boards for Nonprofit Organizations” Seminar Offered by Southwest Initiative Foundation and Bremer Bank
WILLMAR, Minn. -The Southwest Initiative Foundation and Bremer Bank are offering a board development seminar, “Great Boards for Nonprofit Organizations,” for leaders of nonprofit organizations. This seminar will be held April 29, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bremer Bank, located at 500 Willmar Ave. SE.
Two-person leadership teams from emerging and early growth nonprofit organizations in the 18-county area of southwest Minnesota are encouraged to attend this seminar. Typical teams will consist of one staff and one board member, or two board members for volunteer-lead organizations.
Anne Howden, President of Anne Howden Consulting, will lead the seminar. Howden provides consulting and training to nonprofits and foundations throughout the country, and she was the lead trainer for the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Nonprofit Institutes.
Session participants will learn nonprofit governance roles and responsibilities, Dr. Susan Kenny Stevens’ award-winning Nonprofit Lifecycles model, how an effective board works differently at each stage of an organization’s life, and concrete strategies to help boards improve their results. In addition, each participating organization will receive one copy of the book Nonprofit Lifecycles and one hour of follow-up consulting from Anne Howden, focused on board development issues within the participating organization.
Cost of this seminar is $150 per organization, which includes a two-person team. A limited number of partial scholarships are available for organizations that need assistance.
For more information about the seminar and scholarship opportunities, call or e-mail Lois Schmidt, Bremer Nonprofit Resource Specialist, at 507-537-0273 or LCSchmidt@bremer.com. Registration deadline is April 22.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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March 4, 2008
"Tacos Lupe" in Worthington Receives Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
WORTHINGTON, Minn. – Francisco Resendiz
recently received loan assistance from  the
Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF)
Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for his Mexican taco restaurant, “Tacos Lupe.” The restaurant specializes in tacos and other traditional Mexican dishes. The business is located at 415 9th Street.
Resendiz has over 18 years of restaurant experience, most of which included managing Mexican restaurants. He previously worked
with his brothers who ran a very successful
tacowagon, selling at various events in the area. Tacos Lupe’s location has a large floor area and several pool tables, with plenty of space for large gatherings. Resendiz can be reached at (507) 343-9086.
SWIF funding will be used to provide working capital. “Francisco’s knowledge and experience are important to this new business’s success,” said Berny Berger, SWIF Micro-Enterprise program officer. “Tacos Lupe is providing a great food option to both the Latino and Anglo population in Worthington, and the Foundation is pleased to assist Francisco in this business venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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February 29, 2008
Advisory Board of Lismore Area Community Foundation Seated on Wednesday
LISMORE, Minn. – The Lismore Area Community
Foundation (LACF) has been  organizing through
a steering committee process, with leadership
from the Southwest Initiative Foundation, for the
past ten months. On Wednesday evening, the LACF seated its permanent advisory board.
Advisory board members include: Cliff Altman,
Jared Hinsch, Jim Weidert, Joyce Erdman, Roxanne Kemper, Troy Loosbrock, and Troy Veld. Altman, Weidert, Erdman, Loosbrock, and Veld all previously served as steering committee members, while
Hinsch and Kemper are brand new to LACF.
The new, permanent advisory board’s role is to provide leadership and uphold the vision of LACF, whose mission is to “act as a catalyst to facilitate charitable giving and to reinvest in opportunities that improve the quality of life and economy for the people of the Lismore area.” In addition, board members will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Foundation, work to identify projects for immediate funding and fundraising, and continue building the visibility of LACF.
Earlier this year, the Lismore Cooperative Telephone Company (LCTC) initiated the creation of a community foundation, through the Southwest Initiative Foundation, for the Lismore area as a way to capture local charitable resources and enhance the vitality of the community and area. To jumpstart the fundraising and impact of the Lismore Area Community Foundation, the telephone company recently made a $50,000 gift to the Community Foundation’s endowment fund. The gift represented a portion of the company’s earnings from a local investment, and LCTC has continued to pledge a portion of those earnings annually to the community foundation.
With $25,000 in matching funds from the Southwest Initiative Foundation, the Lismore Area Community Foundation endowment fund has quickly grown to over $75,000 in just six months, and grant distributions from those earnings will be made to the Lismore area in the fall of 2008 to help meet community needs.
For more information about the Lismore Area Community Foundation and to share your ideas with the new advisory board, please contact Liz Maiers, SWIF development officer, at 1-800-594-9480 or lizm@swifoundation.org.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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February 19, 2008
Southwest Initiative Foundation Offers Free Seminar for Business Owners
REDWOOD FALLS, Minn. – Business owners often report juggling everything to make ends meet, working long hours and not getting anywhere, wearing every hat in their business, feeling tied to their business and wanting more family and free time. A free seminar offered by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF), “Why small businesses fail and what business owners can do about it,” will help business owners find ways to address these concerns and move their business to the next level.
The seminar will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 26, at the Redwood Area Community Center located at 901 Cook Street. Duane Hoversten, business instructor, consultant and business owner, will lead the seminar. Hoversten will share the secrets he has learned from 15 years of teaching and consulting and 25 years of experience in his own business ventures.
The seminar is being offered by “Step Up Your Business,” a business development class sponsored by SWIF, partnering with Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Ridgewater College, Small Business Development Center, Minnesota Workforce Center Redwood Area Development Corporation, Redwood Area Chamber and Tourism, Renville County HRA/EDA and Olivia Chamber of Commerce.
For more information or to register for the seminar, contact Jackie Turner-Lovsness, SWIF program specialist, at (800) 594-9480 or by e-mail at jackiet@swifoundation.org.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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February 19, 2008
Certificate in Volunteer Leadership Offered through New Training Series
MARSHALL, Minn. - People who work with volunteers as part of their business, nonprofit, community, school or faith group can gain new skills and a Certificate in Volunteer Leadership through a training series developed by the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA).
The training involves two full-day sessions Feb. 29 and March 28 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Bremer Bank, located at 208 E College Drive. The new training series is designed to help volunteer leaders enhance their ability to recruit, manage, support and evaluate volunteer resources, and to maximize and demonstrate the impact of volunteers on their organization. In addition, participants who complete the training series earn a Certificate in Volunteer Leadership.
“Our nation increasingly depends on volunteers to address community needs – from disaster relief, mentoring programs, outreach to seniors, cleaning up parks and rivers, and countless other initiatives impacting communities large and small,” said Carol Thompson, who heads the association’s Volunteer Resources Leadership (VRL) initiative. “Because of this, recruiting, training, leading and maintaining volunteer programs has taken on increased significance across the country. MAVA has received national and local grants to develop and provide this training. Our goal is to make the training as affordable and accessible as possible to those who lead volunteers across the state.”
The two-session series will offer practical insights, with strategies and tips for working with volunteers. Topics covered in the series include: Capturing Volunteer Motivation, Conducting Effective Interviews, Planning for Retention, Recruiting Volunteers, Supervising Volunteers, Recognizing Volunteers, Managing Risk, Positioning Your Volunteer Program for Success and Evaluation.
The training is being co-hosted by Bremer Bank, N.A., Willmar-Marshall-Redwood Falls; Southwest Initiative Foundation and the Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA). Cost for both sessions is $110 for MAVA members and $170 for Non-MAVA Members. Pricing for attending just one session is also available.
The training sessions may also be taken through online Web seminars, starting March 6. For more information, and to register visit www.mavanetwork.org and click on VOLUNTEER IMPACT, or call (651) 255-0469.
The Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration
The Minnesota Association for Volunteer Administration (MAVA) has more than 400 members across the state of Minnesota. Founded as a 501(c)3 in 2001, it is an alliance of individuals and networks dedicated to providing support and resources to those who lead volunteers. MAVA (www.mavanetwork.org) unites administrators of structured volunteer programs and informal volunteer initiatives, as well as those who have an interest in promoting volunteerism across the state. MAVA members represent all sectors of society including faith communities, health care, social service, education, government, grassroots organizations and more.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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February 2, 2008
"Beans Plus, Inc." Expands in Hutchinson with Loan Assistance from SWIF
HUTCHINSON, Minn. – Bernadette Wilson
recently received loan assistance from the
Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the expansion of “Beans Plus, Inc.” Beans Plus provides quality childcare services to Hutchinson, North Mankato and their surrounding areas. In Hutchinson, the company’s current childcare, before and after school programs and summer care are located
at Ridgewater College and Park Elementary School.
The business’s expansion includes opening a third childcare facility at 267 4th Avenue NW,
adjacent to west Highway 7. This new facility will provide care for eight infants, 14 toddlers, 14 transitioning toddlers and 27 preschoolers. According to Sara Carlson, SWIF program officer for the Early Childhood Initiative, “There is still a great need for additional quality childcare programs in the Hutchinson area, and Beans Plus has a very good reputation.” Beans Plus can be reached at
(320) 234-0348.
SWIF funding will be used to purchase equipment for the new childcare facility in Hutchinson. “Beans Plus is a well-run operation, and their leadership team possesses the knowledge and technical skills to make the business succeed,” said Berny Berger, SWIF Micro-Enterprise program officer. “The Foundation is very pleased to be part of this venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Otto Bremer Foundation.
Photo (left to right): Tami Powell, teacher; Bernadette Wilson, president; and Kris Otte, director.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 25, 2008
Southwest Initiative Foundation Offers Free Seminar for Business Owners
MARSHALL, Minn. – Business owners often report juggling everything to make ends meet, working long hours and not getting anywhere, wearing every hat in their business, feeling tied to their business and wanting more family and free time. A free seminar offered by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF), “Why small businesses fail and what business owners can do about it,” will help business owners find ways to address these concerns and move their business to the next level.
The seminar will be held at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 31, at the Marshall YMCA. Duane Hoversten, business instructor, consultant and business owner, will lead the seminar. Hoversten will share the secrets he has learned from 15 years of teaching and consulting and 25 years of experience in his own business ventures.
The seminar is being offered by “Step Up Your Business,” a business development class sponsored by SWIF, partnering with Minnesota West Community and Technical College, Small Business Development Center, Minnesota Workforce Center and Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce.
For more information or to register for the seminar, contact Jackie Turner-Lovsness, SWIF program specialist, at (800) 594-9480 or by e-mail at jackiet@swifoundation.org.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 18, 2008
"Simply Style" Opens in Hutchinson with Loan Assistance from SWIF
HUTCHINSON, Minn. – Maureen Style 
recently received loan assistance from the
Southwest Initiative Foundation’s (SWIF) Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the start-up of “Simply Style,” a fashion consulting and personal shopping service. Style’s business will offer a small direct sales outlet with a consulting office at 25 2nd Ave. SE, Suite 3,
in downtown Hutchinson. This location will offer inventory, accessories, clothing and material samples for selection.
Individual appointments, group gatherings and home shows will be the main marketing tool of the business. Simply Style will have a grand opening on Friday, February 1st, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with free door prizes and hors d’oeuvres. In the future, there will be regular special showing events.
Simply Style “trunk shows” will feature special lines of clothing displayed four times each year from The Carlisle Collection. Style will also sell the Weekender clothing line, as well as belts and handbags, and an accessory line from Tay n Kenz jewelry. Tay n Kenz is a fun, functional art jewelry for the inquisitive shopper. Style will provide one-on-one service to her clients, building relationships based on service, quality and flexibility for the customer’s schedule and home delivery for product orders. Style can be reached at (320) 587-3554 or (320) 282-4569 (cell), to make an appointment for a time that is convenient for you.
SWIF funding will be used to purchase equipment and inventory, and provide working capital. “Maureen has a very good knowledge of the clothing industry,” said Berny Berger, SWIF Micro-Enterprise program officer. “Simply Style has great potential to grow as it provides a unique shopping experience for women in Hutchinson and surrounding communities.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 8, 2008
New London Selected to Participate in SWIF’s Connected Communities Partnership
The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) has selected New London to be the second pilot community for its brand new Connected Communities Partnership (CCP) program. CCP is a community development and leadership program designed to bring leaders and citizens together to identify and prioritize community opportunities based on existing assets that will result in future growth and improvement.
CCP communities, including New London, begin their work with SWIF by recruiting community members to serve as advisors, leaders, and participants. A small advisor team will be formed to serve as a resource and connector to SWIF, the community and the core leadership team. Through an open application process, citizens may apply for a volunteer leadership position on the 20-member core leadership team. Members of the core team must be fully committed to the work of the program which includes four work sessions and community organizing activities within a six to nine month time frame. An action team will be formed later to implement projects identified in the action plan.
“We are pleased to launch the pilot in New London,” said Judy Larson, program director at the Foundation, “and we are eager to work alongside of New London’s talented leaders and citizens. We will guide and coach the community along but the real work and commitment belongs with the community.” CCP aims to achieve high-impact outcomes and change at individual, team and community levels, with an emphasis on community change. High-impact change has a substantial effect on the quality of life offered by the community and is easily recognized by both existing residents and potential newcomers.
SWIF launched its first CCP pilot in Montevideo in the fall of 2007, and its second pilot in New London in early 2008. A new community will be selected to be the third CCP community in the fall of 2008. For more information, contact Judy Larson, SWIF program director, at judyl@swifoundation.org or (800) 594-9480.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 8, 2008
Applications Available for Valspar’s Minnesota Beautiful Program
Click here to download a PDF version of the application package.
Applications are now being accepted for consideration in the Minnesota Beautiful program, a program that provides paint and coatings to complete various restoration projects in Minnesota communities. The program is administered by the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) in partnership with the Minneapolis-based Valspar Corporation. This is the eleventh year the organizations have partnered to provide community restoration and beautification opportunities in southwest Minnesota.
Selected projects must meet criteria including visual impact of the project, public benefit to the community, volunteer participation and support, current and/or intended use of the structure and benefit to the needy. Qualifying projects may include, but are not limited to, historic buildings, structures or landmarks, facilities for senior or disabled citizens, community centers or other public buildings and murals or other visual impact projects. Some projects not within the scope of this program include denominational churches, city maintenance or privately-owned facilities that do not meet any of the above criteria.
Completed application packages for the Minnesota Beautiful program must be received by March 1, 2008. For more information, or to obtain an application, visit www.swifoundation.org, or contact Janet Menton, SWIF administrative program pecialist by e-mail at janetm@swifoundation.org or by phone at 1-800-594-9480.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 2, 2007
“Famous Davis” Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
WILLMAR, Minn. - Chris Davis received loan
assistance from the Southwest  Initiative
Foundation’s (SWIF) Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the expansion of his business, “Famous Davis.” The business specializes
in Web design, software development, video production and graphic design, and was recently moved to the MinnWest Technology Campus at 1700 Technology Drive, Suite
109, in Willmar. Davis can be reached by phone at (320) 222-3098. Visit their Web
site, www.famousdavispro.com, for more information about their services.
Davis has a strong background in software design and development, serving business needs for specialty software including data acquisition like GPS and electronic sales, as well as robotic control. Davis’s son, Chris, and daughter-in-law, Jacqueline, have joined the business full-time. Chris is also an expert Web designer, and Jacqueline brings valuable experience and a degree in graphic arts design to the business. Together, they are able to offer their clients cutting-edge and visually appealing Web sites, and a variety of video production services for anything from business marketing and/or training tools to personal events like weddings.
SWIF loan proceeds will be used for the purchase of additional equipment and software, as well as working capital. “Famous Davis is a rapidly-growing business,” said Berny Berger, SWIF Micro-Enterprise program officer. “Their move to the MinnWest Technology Campus will allow them to conveniently serve other businesses in the campus community and beyond. The Foundation is pleased to be a part of this exciting venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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January 2, 2007
“Weddings by Jeni” Opens with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
HUTCHINSON, Minn. – Jeni Hemingson recently
received a loan from the  Southwest Initiative
Foundation’s (SWIF) Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the start-up of her wedding consultation business, “Weddings by Jeni.” The business offers a full list of services including etiquette guidance, budget
planning, vendor recommendations, contract
review, on-site facilitation and more.
Weddings by Jeni provides three different program options ranging from full-service planning to wedding day-only assistance. These programs are tailored to the individual couples Hemingson works with, ensuring her clients receive the services they need to make the months, days and hours prior to their weddings run smoothly.
Hemingson can be reached by phone at (320) 234-3416. Weddings by Jeni will also be represented at the Hutchinson Bridal Show, taking place at the Hutchinson Event Center on Jan. 27, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
SWIF loan proceeds will be used for working capital. “Jeni has the knowledge, experience and organizational skills to make her business successful,” said Berny Berger, SWIF Micro-Enterprise program officer. “Weddings by Jeni will provide a desired service to our region. The Foundation is very pleased to be part of this business venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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December 21, 2007
“Tracy Computer and Office Supply” Receives Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
Tracy, Minn. – Josh Schmidt and Caleb Schmidt
recently received loan assistance  from the Southwest
Initiative Foundation’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the purchase and expansion of “Tracy Computer and Office Supply.” The business is serving a niche market as a Dell Solution Provider in southern Minnesota, but also carries and services other well-known brands of computer systems, such as HP. Tracy Computer and Office Supply is now expanding into cellular phone services, with the addition of a Unicel sales and service center to their business.
They will be celebrating with an open house January 4 and 5.
Tracy Computer and Office Supply carries a full line of computer products including computers, printers, and software, service parts and basic office supplies like paper and ink cartridges. The brothers also repair and refurbish used computers and printers for resale. The business is located at 198 3rd Street in Tracy, and Josh or Caleb can be reached for services at (507) 212-1025.
Loan funding from SWIF will be used for working capital. “Tracy Computers provides a much-needed service to the Tracy area, and it is a great addition to the community’s vibrant downtown,” said Berny Berger, micro-enterprise program officer. “As Tracy natives, Josh and Caleb have a strong support system for starting their business. The Foundation is very pleased to be able to assist such spirited young entrepreneurs with their business venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business loan programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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December 17, 2007
“Windom Bakery” Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
WINDOM, Minn. – Jean and Ken Fast recently received
a loan from the Southwest  Initiative Foundation’s
Micro-Enterprise Loan Program for the expansion
of their bakery/deli business in Windom. The
Fasts have owned Windom Bakery since March of 2007. Before temporarily closing a few years ago,
the Windom Bakery had been in business for
nearly 60 years.
Windom Bakery makes their products fresh daily
“from scratch,” which sets them apart in a niche market. The bakery has experienced very rapid
growth since re-opening last spring, adding both full-time and part-time employees. Windom Bakery provides baked goods to area Sunshine Markets in Windom and Jackson, and to the Windom school, as well as local customers. The bakery also serves lunches and offers catering and special-order cake decorating. The business is located at 344 10th Street and can be reached by phone at (507) 831-0226.
Loan assistance from SWIF will be used for working capital. “Jean has done an excellent job managing and expanding the Windom Bakery,” said Berny Berger, SWIF micro-enterprise program officer. “Jean’s strong hard-work ethic and concern for providing quality bakery products and good customer service will serve the community well. The Foundation is happy to assist with the expansion of this business.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business loan programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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December 6, 2007
“Mr. B. Chocolatier” Moves and Expands with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
Willmar, MN – Mr. B. Chocolatier, LLC recently
received a loan from the Southwest  Initiative
Foundation’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program to assist in moving the production facility for the “Mr. B. Chocolatier” business to a new, larger location on Highway 12 West. The business is co-owned by David and Patricia George and Ian and Danielle George and makes fine, hand-made, European style chocolates. The business has a new retail store in Willmar, located at 2211 South First Street, and numerous other business outlets throughout Minnesota. Mr. B. Chocolatier can be reached by phone at (320) 235-1313 or at their website, www.mrbchocolate.com
The business was purchased by the co-owners from Dwight Barnes, the original Mr. B., in June. Before opening Mr. B’s, Barnes spent two years in Belgium as an apprentice to Mr. Hans Burie, one of the most renowned chocolatiers in Europe. Following his extensive training, Barnes started his chocolate business in Willmar using the European methods of making chocolate products and imported special ingredients. Until his recent retirement, Barnes attended continuing education with Callebaut, one of the world’s top producers of raw chocolate and one of the most renowned chocolatier schools in the world.
Barnes has trained Ian George, husband of his granddaughter, Danielle, as an artisan Chocolatier. Ian is trained as a professional chef and he and Danielle will carry on the traditions of this family business.
Loan assistance from SWIF will be used for additional fixtures needed at the new location, as well as working capital for moving costs. “Mr. B. Chocolatier is an established, successful business,” said Berny Berger, SWIF micro-enterprise program officer. “The business is well-known throughout the state and has a national reputation for excellence. It is great for the business to be transitioned on in the family, and the Foundation is excited to assist them in this business venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business loan programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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December 5, 2007
Southwest Initiative Foundation Mini-Documentary "Just Imagine" Available for Viewing
The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) has produced a mini-documentary, “Just Imagine,” about the opportunities southwest Minnesota has to prepare for a bright and prosperous future. The video explores five areas that will be critical to the region's future growth including the changing face of rural, protecting and capitalizing on our resources and assets, educating future leaders, emerging technologies, and visionary leadership and planning.
The people, communities, businesses and organizations included in the video show examples of progress and innovation in the region today. “It is our hope that this video will spark dialogue and brainstorming about how we can help southwest Minnesota adapt and thrive in a changing world,” said Sarah Libbon, SWIF senior communications officer. “We hope this video engages, educates and inspires audiences across the region and beyond.”
“Just Imagine” may be viewed on SWIF’s Web site at http://www.swifoundation.org/newsevents.html, or on YouTube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0sjil3w-ic. It is divided into five chapters for easier Web viewing, so be sure to upload all chapters and watch them in order. Copies of the DVD are also available for $4.50 each. To request a DVD, or to provide feedback about the mini-documentary, contact Sarah Libbon by phone at 800-594-9480, or by e-mail at sarahl@swifoundation.org.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business finance programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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December 3, 2007
Southwest Initiative Foundation Names New Senior Program Officer for Economic Advancement
The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) has
named Scott Marquardt of  Montevideo, Minn., as its
new senior program officer for economic advancement. Marquardt will lead SWIF’s economic advancement activities and programs, securing financial resources and working with partners to advance regional economic development
opportunities for southwest Minnesota.
Before coming to SWIF, Marquardt was the economic development director in Montevideo, Minn., where he provided economic development services to the Montevideo Economic Development Authority, City of Montevideo, Montevideo Community Development Corporation, Montevideo Industrial Development Corporation, and the Montevideo Housing Commission. Marquardt holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and political science, and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of South Dakota, Vermillion, SD.
“We’re so pleased to have Scott join the Southwest Initiative Foundation staff,” said SWIF president/CEO Sherry Ristau. “He brings a wealth of economic and community development experience. He achieved many positive outcomes for the community of Montevideo in his past position, and now we’re looking forward to putting his skills and knowledge to work for the economic benefit of the entire region.”
Marquardt is a board member for the Economic Development Association of Minnesota and the Southwest Minnesota Small Business Development Center Advisory Board. He also serves on the Education Committee for the Economic Development Association of Minnesota and the Outreach Advisory Committee for the Southwest Minnesota Housing Partnership.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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November 14, 2007
“Todd’s Appliance Service” Opens in Redwood Falls with Loan Assistance from Southwest Initiative Foundation
Redwood Falls, Minn. – Todd Neegaard recently
received a loan from the  Southwest Initiative
Foundation's (SWIF)Micro-Enterprise Loan
Program to assist with the start up of his appliance repair service business in Redwood Falls.
Neegaard is a lifelong resident of Redwood Falls,
where he and his wife, Jenny, live with their two
children. He has a degree in appliance repair and
was previously employed at Ace Hardware in
Redwood Falls for 13 years.
Neegaard has his Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) certification for refrigeration and can fix any type of household appliance including washers, dryers, ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, window air conditioners and dehumidifiers. He will also do warranty service for Maytag and Whirlpool brand appliances. Neegaard can be reached for service at (507) 430-5242.
Loan funds from the Southwest Initiative Foundation will be used for equipment, inventory, fixtures, and working capital. “The Foundation is very pleased to be able to assist Todd with the opening of his appliance repair service, which will provide a service that is much needed in the Redwood Falls area,” said Berny Berger, micro-enterprise program officer. “Todd’s many years of experience, as well as his knowledge of the community, will serve him well in this new business venture.”
SWIF’s Micro-Enterprise Loan Program offers loans of up to $35,000 for starting or expanding for-profit small businesses located within the 18 counties of southwest Minnesota that have a need for additional sources of funds. In addition, technical assistance is available from SWIF as needed for the length of the loan. The program receives funding assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration, as well as from the Otto Bremer Foundation.
The Southwest Initiative Foundation is a regional community foundation dedicated to advancing southwest Minnesota through leadership, relationship-building, program development and philanthropy. The Foundation has contributed over $43 million to date through its grant and loan programs in southwest Minnesota. It has also helped over 400 businesses start or expand through its business loan programs, which has created or retained over 6,800 jobs. To learn more about the Foundation, visit www.swifoundation.org on the World Wide Web.
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News and Events
Learn about the many ways the Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is helping to make southwest Minnesota and even greater place to call home!
Click here to read SWIF newsletter articles.
Click here to read SWIF news releases.
Click here to view the calendar of upcoming events.
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