Home - Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation

SMIF's staff takes stewardship seriously. We are committed to managing resources and programs that have meaningful and lasting results.

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation provides grants to support economic growth, entrepreneurship, early childhood development, and community vitality in southeastern Minnesota.

SMIF’s Paint the Town Grant Program is designed to engage volunteers and build collaborative efforts that beautify communities with a population under 10,000. The grant is administered by SMIF in partnership with Arrow Hardware & Paint (store locations: Northfield, Owatonna,

The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation works to ensure prosperity in southern Minnesota through partnerships and community initiatives.

Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is pleased to accept applications for the 2023 Prosperity Initiative Cohort. Now entering its 7 th year, over 100 individuals have participated in the program from southern Minnesota.

For Grantseekers: We offer funding in a variety of program areas, each with its own application procedures and guidelines.

Careers at SMIF: Thank you for your interest in a career here! Our team works with partners to ensure that southern Minnesota is prosperous.

SMIF’s Paint the Town Grant Program is designed to build community collaboration with a unique and hands-on approach.

The PROMISE Act is funded by one-time allocation from the State of Minnesota Legislature in partnership with the MN DEED.