Advancing opportunity and economic mobility with Southwest Initiative Foundation

Southwest Initiative Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation creating a region where all people thrive. Since 1986, the organization has partnered with communities across southwest Minnesota to connect people, invest in ideas and build communities.

Headquartered in Hutchinson, Minnesota, its work spans 18 counties and two Native Nations. The foundation serves communities that range from fewer than 50 residents to larger regional hubs.

SWIF focuses on boosting economic mobility, building resilient communities and retaining wealth. Through these efforts, the foundation supports access to quality, affordable child care; provides loans and technical assistance to help local businesses succeed; builds local capacity through donor partnerships and leadership development; and collaborates with schools and employers to create opportunities for students to explore careers and develop future-ready skills.

Under the leadership of President Scott Marquardt, SWIF is taking bold steps to deepen its impact. In 2024, the organization launched Southwest Minnesota Community Capital, a new subsidiary working toward certification as a Community Development Financial Institution. This milestone will expand access to affordable financing for small businesses and entrepreneurs in underserved communities, advancing economic mobility across the region.

SWIF was recently awarded a CoBank Rural Prosperity Grant, providing $250,000 in flexible funding to strengthen rural development. These resources will help expand and sustain child care programs, support high school career exploration initiatives, and build staff capacity to accelerate CDFI certification and mission-driven lending.

Together with its partners, donors and communities, Southwest Initiative Foundation is creating a future where southwest Minnesota’s people and places can prosper.