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Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is currently accepting applications for its Small Town Grant program. Towns, or Native nations, with populations of 10,000 or less in SMIF’s 20-county region are eligible. Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public institutions and units or agencies of local, state, federal and tribal government are encouraged to apply. Requests of up to $10,000 for eligible projects will be considered.

The Small Town Grant program seeks to invest in collaborative initiatives which improve the way a community works together, solves challenges, creates a welcoming community and sense of belonging for all. SMIF seeks proposals which focus on collaboration throughout the project and will impact the culture, education, economy and/or social aspects of the community. Proposals to launch new projects or expand existing initiatives will be considered.

Since 2017, SMIF has awarded 114 Small Town Grants, impacting more than 150,000 residents in the smallest communities of southern Minnesota. Examples of past grant projects include: the establishment of a new organization to unite various cultures in town, a new event to draw tourism and create a welcoming atmosphere, strategic planning for city growth, marketing videos to retain and attract residents, community-wide branding initiatives, a welcome basket program for new residents, translation services for non-English speaking residents and more.

The Small Town Grant program is supported, in part, by a generous donation in memory of Paul O. Johnson, who wanted southern Minnesota’s smallest communities to thrive. Johnson’s legacy is being continued by his family, Amy De Jong, Paula Rehder and Scott Johnson.

“These funds have been an incredible way to jumpstart collaborative projects that help create welcoming communities,” said Tim Penny, president and CEO of SMIF. “Once again, we are grateful to Paul Johnson’s family for their generous support.”

Applications are due to SMIF by Aug. 26. Awardees will be notified by Oct. 15. For the application and guidelines, visit www.smifoundation.org/smalltowngrant. For questions, contact Sarah Scheffert, community vitality specialist, at 507-214-7015 or sarahs@smifoundation.org.