Inspire waves of positive change that can last for generations.
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Our Work Impacts
Many Facets of a Community
When we educate, we give people and organizations the tools they need to serve the region. When we activate, we encourage them to embrace their potential and maximize their impact. When we celebrate, we foster a sense of joyful community in which successes are lauded and honored. These three ideas work together to help our communities thrive.
Global · Regional · Local
Our strategic plan has many moving parts. Each part helps us move toward one destination: a thriving, inclusive, and prosperous region.
Global Sustainable Development Goals
Regional Community and Economic Development Cornerstones
Our Strategic Priorities
Our Impact
$78M
in grants
$59M
in loans
9,000
jobs created or retained
$299M
loan dollars leveraged
🚨Grant opportunity alert! 🚨 We’re thrilled to announce that Otto Bremer Trust has chosen us as a philanthropic intermediary partner to manage and distribute funds through its new Community Responsive Fund. In this exciting new partnership, we’ll work closely with Otto Bremer Trust to administer $350,000 in funds for grants up to $75,000 to support local organizations that directly respond to immediate challenges and opportunities within our community. Local nonprofits, organizations, and groups may apply for funding from the Otto Bremer Trust’s Community Responsive Fund. Qualified applicants focus on community asset building, supporting basic needs, health and well-being, restorative and emergency services, and/or providing stability to individuals and families facing disruptive forces in life. Applications are due April 18. Visit wcif.org/otto-bremer-trust-community-responsive-fund/ to learn more and apply. … See MoreSee Less
Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund – wcif.org
wcif.org
West Central Initiative will award $350,000 in grants to west central Minnesota organizations from the Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund. Applications open March 18, 2024.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚨 Stay tuned for more information about our April MasterMind with Cedar Walters! … See MoreSee Less
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🗓️Community Conversations: Toward a Positive Rural Vision with Ben Winchester is a week away! Attendees can expect an engaging discussion about the increased need for leadership in rural Minnesota and the pivotal role of informed and empowered leadership in shaping our community’s future. This thought-provoking conversation will be hosted and moderated by former Minnesota State Senator Dan Skogen and a panel of local elected leaders at West Central Research & Outreach Center in Morris. There are only a few spots left! Visit our website to register for this free event today! … See MoreSee Less
Learn More
Community Conversations: Toward a Positive Rural Vision – wcif.org
wcif.org
The series is comprised community conversations that tackle themes essential for our region —democracy, leadership, and climate action.0 CommentsComment on Facebook