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.
Initiators Fellowship Application Open
The Initiators Fellowship is a bold strategy that gives next-generation leaders the tools and resources to accelerate their entrepreneurial and leadership skills. Check out this two-year program to build your business and leadership capacity for the greater good of Greater Minnesota. Applications close at noon on June 16—help spread the word by sharing this opportunity with a social entrepreneur you know!
Learn More: Special Grant Rounds
The Foundation has two special grant rounds open now: Energy Efficiency & Community Resiliency and Joy & Connection grants. The grants are open to local units of government (municipality, county, township, Tribal government, etc.), school districts and nonprofit organization with 501(c)(3) status. See if your organization might qualify.
New Community Portal
The Initiative Foundation has transitioned its technology platform for grant-seekers and Partner Fund advisors. Visit our Community Portal landing page for video tutorials on navigating this space as we work together to empower people throughout Central Minnesota to build a thriving economy, vibrant communities and a lasting culture of generosity.
2025 Engagement Tour
Join us in July in Long Prairie. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, community volunteer, nonprofit staff or early childhood professional, this is your chance to network and explore valuable resources. Invite your friends and coworkers to be part of the conversation—we’d love to see you there!
2025 Emerging Entrepreneur Showcase & Awards
The Initiative Foundation is pleased to invite you to the 2025 Emerging Entrepreneur Showcase & Awards from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24, at The Clearing in Sauk Rapids. This event will celebrate early-stage entrepreneurs who have launched or grown businesses with support from Initiative Foundation programming and partners and free food vendor samples and a marketplace with products and services available for purchase.
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
Apply Now: Fellowship for Social Entrepreneurs
Current and aspiring business owners who are working to create positive community change and who reside in and serve the 53 counties and six Native… Read More
Long Prairie Enterprise Academy Class Graduates 10
The Initiative Foundation is celebrating the graduation of 10 entrepreneurs who are dedicated to building their homegrown business ideas in the Long Prairie area. These… Read More
$500,000 Gift Lifts Cambridge Family Shelter Project
Cambridge, Minn.—A $500,000 gift from the Memorial Hospital Foundation is propelling New Pathways, Inc., closer to breaking ground on a permanent family shelter in Cambridge. Read More