Economic Advancement

SWIF is working to advance and support southwest Minnesota’s renewable energy to help the region achieve greater economic growth.

The Southwest Initiative Foundation (SWIF) is taking a leadership role to help the southwest Minnesota region advance economically by identifying and supporting several key asset sectors.  Through input from SWIF’s Board of Directors and a group of regional business leaders, SWIF has identified several existing economic assets in the region that we believe hold the most promise for helping the region achieve greater economic growth.

Currently, we are focusing our efforts on supporting the renewable energy asset sector by facilitating greater public awareness and education, providing grant and loan resources, and seizing opportunities to support the growing industry in our region. 

Within the next five years, SWIF will begin work in additional asset sector areas, which may include:  specialty manufacturing, food production, bioscience, and recreation and tourism.  SWIF’s role is that of convener, facilitator, communicator, educator, investor and advocate.  By carrying out this role effectively, SWIF can help accelerate the development of these great regional economic opportunities.

For More Information:				Additional Resources:
	Contact: Cheryl Glaeser Program Specialist (800) 594-9480 cherylg@swifoundation.org				Southwest Minnesota Careers:  Information on Hot Jobs, Education, and Wages http://www.swmncareers.org/       View Additional Resources