Minnesota Initiative Foundations

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The Minnesota Initiative Foundations have been the solution for economic and community development in Greater Minnesota for over 40 years.

Amid the farm crisis of the 1980s, the Minnesota Initiative Foundations were created to meet a moment. Today, they stand as a powerful model for rural philanthropy, economic development, and locally led solutions.

The six regional foundations work to strengthen the communities and economies of Greater Minnesota. Established by the McKnight Foundation in 1986, each foundation is independent and serves its geographic region by delivering grants, business financing, regional programs, belonging work and donor services. The foundations also are regular collaborators on statewide initiatives.

Learn more about each of the Minnesota Initiative Foundations at GreaterMinnesota.net.

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40 Years of Impact

The Minnesota Initiative Foundations are nationally recognized as unique resources to the people, businesses and communities of rural Minnesota.

$404.5MGrants empowering Minnesota communities

$345.2MLocal business investments

$806.4MLeveraged for Greater Minnesota

News & Ideas

Stories Celebrating 40 Years of Investing in Local Communities