Asset Building Grants

Asset Building Grants Investing in community initiatives that make our region a better place to live and work What is a thriving community? Is it a place that is rich in culture and has good paying jobs that attract motivated, bright people? Is it a place where there s a sense of belonging among all members of the community? Northwest Minnesota Foundation works to support this vision of a thriving community. The Asset Building Grants program helps nonprofits and public agencies grow and adapt to the changing environment in which they operate. Among the many possibilities, our grants could help develop a new program to serve at-risk youth, support planning activities to address changing community needs, or demonstrate viable alternative energy projects in our region. Northwest Minnesota Foundation awards grants only to organizations located and/or conducting activities in our 12-county service area (i.e. Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau, Red Lake Reservation and White Earth Reservation). Applicants must be public agencies, local government units, or private nonprofits with a 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Asset Building Grants Community Connections Program Community Connections Program grants help organizations develop new networks, build coalitions, and promote collaborations between human service providers, other organizations, and/or public agencies. NMF will consider projects that address one or more of the following: Joint ventures leading to increased effectiveness and efficiency among organizations and/or public agencies Cooperative planning and implementation, including shared resources, staffing, programs, or possible mergers between organizations and/or public agencies Innovative school-community partnerships to improve high school graduation rates, increase college participation, and/or foster career exploration Community Planning Program Community Planning Program grants help support the design and implementation of plans that address one or more of the following priorities: Comprehensive community development planning, including plans for recreational parks and trails, housing, transportation, and other community issues Economic development planning and initiatives Research and demonstration projects that promote sustainable development strategies, new processing methods to further value-added agriculture, energy conservation, renewable fuels, and/or alternative energy technologies Caring Communities Program Caring Communities Program grants are used for new, innovative efforts that address the needs of children, families, and the elderly. Grants must serve one or more of the following priorities: Reducing the incidence of physical and emotional violence among children Improving nonprofit, faith-based, and public services to families in poverty Alleviating childhood dysfunction in the areas of learning, social development, and health Enabling the elderly to remain healthy, integrated community members Natural Resources Program Natural Resources Program grants help support preservation and promotion of the region s natural resource base, as well as value-added agriculture efforts. They must promote the sustainable use and preservation of the region s natural resource base. Invest in Your Community s Future Contact the Northwest Minnesota Foundation to learn more about making donations or to include Asset Building Grants in your will.

Northwest Minnesota Foundation: Creating Quality of Place Structural Assets Natural Assets Social Assets Economic Assets Schools Clean air and water Peace and quiet Job availability Housing Recreation opportunities Effective leadership Job quality Streets and roads Wildlife observation Diverse population Wage levels Water and sewer Hunting Unhurried pace Access to capital Hospitals and clinics Trail systems Public safety Business training Shopping districts Dining establishments Government offices Telecommunications Entertainment venues Sports facilities Open spaces Forests Lakes Public lands Dark skies Social and community networks Effective organizations Lack of congestion Strong family relationships Places of worship Technical support Entrepreneurial opportunities Child care Work skills training The Northwest Minnesota Foundation serves 12 counties: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Creating Quality of Place Our Mission The Northwest Minnesota Foundation invests resources, facilitates collaboration, and promotes philanthropy to make the region a better place to live and work. Our Vision Northwest Minnesota will be a place where communities and people work together to foster opportunity, promote philanthropy, and enrich the lives of all residents. Quality of Place We have adopted a concept called Quality of Place, which we use to focus our resources on meeting the needs of our rural region. Quality of Place is something all communities will need to be successful in the future. It is found in the four areas highlighted in this brochure: structural, natural, social, and economic assets. Invest in Your Community s Future Contact the Northwest Minnesota Foundation to learn how you can donate or include NMF in your will. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only Structural Assets Grants For community development plans To preserve core business Philanthropic Services Endowment and project funds for education and scholarships Health care funds Natural Assets Grants For promotion and preservation of natural resources Philanthropic Services Environmental and recreation endowment and project funds Social Assets Grants For new ventures that address the needs of children, families, and the elderly For joint ventures between organizations and/or communities Philanthropic Services Community funds Public services funds Cultural funds Specialized training and technical assistance for component fund advisory committees Economic Assets Grants For economic development planning and initiatives Loans To create quality jobs, provide access to new markets, and promote entrepreneurship To foster new and existing knowledge clusters within groups of high-skill industries To support new ventures that develop, produce, or distribute renewable fuels Philanthropic Services Endowment and project funds for economic development Community loan funds Loans To maintain essential community services To preserve or rehabilitate buildings of architectural significance Training Training and technical assistance to support nonprofit organizations and individuals working in associated fields Training Training and technical assistance to support nonprofit organizations and individuals working in associated fields Training & Facilitation Facilitation of grassroots coalitions to improve the lives of young children Training and technical assistance to support nonprofit organizations and individuals STAR Youth Leadership for elementary and middle school students Nonprofit Excellence Program Training Training to support businesses and entrepreneurs Specialized workshops Technical assistance Special Initiatives To enhance the competitive advantage of the region To identify and promote promising ideas in the manufacturing sector To foster a collective vision for the region s economy

Nonprofit Excellence Program Healthy nonprofits lead to healthier communities. Strengthening leadership at all levels is an important factor for a strong nonprofit community. Through training, assessment, and collaboration, nonprofits can achieve powerful results and can better serve their constituents. We believe that building the capacity of nonprofits leads to long-term growth and sustainability, which is why we provide several development programs. The Northwest Minnesota Foundation serves 12 counties: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Nonprofit Excellence Program The Northwest Minnesota Foundation s Nonprofit Excellence Program strengthens the capabilities and capacity of the region s nonprofits so they can achieve their missions more efficiently. Nonprofit Organizational Excellence NMF is offering three steps in the Nonprofit Organizational Excellence Program. An organization may request one step or all three. For more information about any of the three steps or for scheduling, please contact Dawn Ganje. 1. Let NMF Be Your GPS: Learn the Pathway to a More Efficient Organization This workshop for executive directors and governing boards provides an opportunity for discovery and growth. This seminar will unite board members with various levels of experience to function as a unit and use their collective knowledge for the benefit of an organization. The workshop will help executive directors and governing boards understand the basic responsibilities of a nonprofit, the role of the board, board functions, and how to use resources offered by NMF. 2. Introduction of Capacity Development and Organizational Excellence Assessment During this meeting with an organization s governing board, the concepts of capacity development and organizational assessment will be presented and discussed. As organizations grow, age, and provide programs and services that are critical to the health and welfare of their community, revisiting their basic operations will help them pinpoint their current status and identify opportunities for increased efficiency and continued growth. 3. Organizational Excellence Assessment This two-day on-site assessment provides decision makers with important information about key functions of their nonprofit organization. This process is designed to disseminate information in a quick, dashboard manner so that it s easy to see an organization s starting point and identify the best way to accomplish their goals. Professional Excellence Program The Professional Excellence Program is for upper- and mid-level managers in the nonprofit sector. It includes training which is delivered in half-day or one-day workshops offered in locations around the 12-county region. Class sizes are limited. We share the nation s latest theories and best practices of effective organizations. Workshops include topics such as: Grant Writing Visioning and Strategic Planning Interpersonal Communication Fund Development Time Management Promotion and Media Relations Board and Governance Leadership Budgeting and Accounting Meeting Management and Facilitation Program Evaluation Conflict Management Skills Managing for Organizational Change Nonprofit Leader Transition Technical Assistance Nonprofit organizations and public agencies may request technical assistance when an executive director or agency director leaves the organization. The technical assistance will be in the form of a mentor or coach for the new director. Visit to see upcoming workshops or contact Northwest Minnesota Foundation at (218) 759-2057 to learn more about Nonprofit Excellence Programs available in your community.

Early Childhood Initiative Investing in our children our future Investing in early childhood care and learning pays big dividends for communities and businesses. Scientific research confirms that children s earliest experiences dramatically affect their ability to succeed. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Working to build nurturing communities that help children thrive Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative Promoting high-quality early care and education for children from birth to age five Scientific research confirms that children s earliest experiences dramatically affect their ability to succeed. Unfortunately, every year about half of Minnesota s children enter kindergarten not fully prepared to succeed, according to recent studies by the Minnesota Department of Education. Supporting our children s development pays real dividends. Economists Art Rolnick and Rob Grunewald published a study showing every dollar spent on quality early childhood programs saves $7 in negative outcomes, including school failure, juvenile delinquency, special education, out of home placements, teen pregnancy, and welfare dependency. If you d like to donate to your local coalition, please contact NMF or visit our website to learn more. Our goal is to assist the early childhood coalitions in engaging their broader community in addressing needs in quality early care and education. Early Childhood Coalitions are located in: Park Rapids Bemidji Area Warroad Lake of the Woods Bagley Naytahwaush Thief River Falls Fertile-Beltrami Crookston Clearbrook/Gonvick Marshall County Norman County East Every $1 spent on quality early childhood programs saves $7 in negative outcomes... Did you know 90% of human brain development occurs between birth and age five? Children who participate in high-quality early education develop better language skills, score higher in school-readiness tests, and have better social skills and fewer behavioral problems once they enter school. Contact Northwest Minnesota Foundation at (218) 759-2057 to learn how you can become involved or donate to the Early Childhood Initiative. Minnesota Thrive Initiative Strengthening early childhood mental health services for young children and families The goals of the Northwest Minnesota Foundation and the Minnesota Thrive Initiative are to raise awareness of children s mental health needs between the ages of birth and five, determine existing services and gaps, and develop a network of services for families and young children to support healthy social and emotional development.

Business Development Programs Creating Good Jobs and Diversifying Economic Opportunities The Northwest Minnesota Foundation s Business Development programs create jobs and business opportunities leading to longterm community impact and diversification of the economy. Programs include Business Financing and Entrepreneur Development. The Northwest Minnesota Foundation serves 12 counties: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Business Development Programs Business Financing Program Business Loans This is a gap lending program that requires primary lending from a bank. Loans of up to $150,000 are available for start-ups and up to $300,000 is available for expansions. While frequently below market, the interest rates are based on the merit of the project. Collateral and personal guarantees are required. Product Development Loans Loans are available to develop new products with an emphasis on new technologies. Funds may be used for working capital, inventory, equipment, land, and buildings. Ineligible activities include general retail businesses and conventional agricultural production. Eligible Activities and Use of Funds Value-added manufacturing and processing Technologically innovative industries Tourism and information industries Goods and services that enhance Quality of Place Agri-processing, marketing, and specialty crops production General Policies Funding gaps must exist. Financing for 50% of the project from private sources is required, along with a minimum down payment of 10%. Jobs must be created or retained with acceptable wage levels. Minority applicants are encouraged to apply. Please visit nwmf.org to learn how to apply. Entrepreneur Development Program NMF staff provides technical assistance and financing to individuals who want to start a business or expand an existing business. Technical Assistance Technical assistance is provided in combination with financing before, during, and after financing is secured. This assistance can include: pre-loan counseling, marketing and management assessment, financial planning, and business plan preparation. After financing is made, technical assistance continues with bookkeeping and accounting assistance, marketing strategy, and management and operations strategy. Specialized needs can also be met through other consultants and specialized training programs. Loan Eligibility and Terms Retail, service, manufacturing, and other business types are generally eligible. Loan funds can be used for equipment, inventory, and working capital. Real estate, building purchase, or construction are not eligible. Loan terms can be up to six years. The interest rate is fixed for the term and frequently below market. All loans must have collateral and are typically subordinate to a lead bank (if involved). The maximum loan amount is $35,000. NMF is an Equal Opportunity Provider. Funding partners include the McKnight Foundation, The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, U.S. Small Business Administration, USDA Rural Development, and other funders.

Philanthropic Services Legacy: options aligned with your values The Northwest Minnesota Foundation provides flexible and responsive ways for making a difference through charitable giving. We help donors to create an asset base for their communities, contributing to the care of people and the strength of organizations. The Northwest Minnesota Foundation serves 12 counties: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Philanthropic Services The Northwest Minnesota Foundation helps donors realize significant tax benefits while leveraging charitable contributions for greater gain. We provide ways to make a meaningful and lasting difference for a program, a community, or the region. Community Foundations Community foundations are flexible vehicles for donors varied interests. We listen in order to understand your goals and interests. We inform and educate you about your giving options and funding opportunities. Once your gift is made, we exercise prudent stewardship to ensure that your charitable assets are soundly managed for the benefit of both current and future generations. NMF is a steward through which private assets entrusted to us by generations of donors are wisely invested to meet the challenges of contemporary life. Security Donors can be assured that their gifts will endure to benefit future generations. Professional Management Donors have a variety of deferred giving options and estate planning. Tax Benefits Donors can achieve their philanthropic objectives while providing the benefits of additional income, stewardship, and estate tax and capital gains tax reduction. Gifts to NMF qualify for charitable gift deductions as the law allows. Our Services NMF offers professional fund management for organizational longevity. Strong nonprofits are vital to the health of our communities. Nonprofit endowments work by channeling charitable gifts into a single investment fund that builds over time. A nonprofit organization s endowment will generate earnings that contribute to income annually now and for years to come. We provide the services listed below. Professional Investment Management Gain access to our large investment pool with its high-performing assets and low investment and administrative fees. Relief From Administrative Burdens We handle all accounting, reporting, and legal requirements. Philanthropic Services Support Our staff provides planned giving tools and support including assistance with structuring, accepting and managing complicated gifts. Why Support Northwest Minnesota Foundation? The reasons to support NMF are found within the ways the programs and component funds of the foundation are working to make the region a better place to live and work. The NMF endowment supports all of the grants and business development programs, training, conference center services, operation costs, and staff expertise that provides intensive help to our component funds. Online giving at is fast, easy, and secure.

Youth Leadership: STAR Program Teaching Life Skills to Create Respectful Communities Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect (STAR) is a program funded by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation. It is offered to schools and organizations within the Foundation s 12-county region. Peacemaker Resources conducts the retreats and provides followup consultation to the STAR teams. I learned to stand up for what is right, even if it means standing alone. A 6 th -grade STAR Student The Northwest Minnesota Foundation serves 12 counties: Beltrami, Clearwater, Hubbard, Kittson, Lake of the Woods, Mahnomen, Marshall, Norman, Pennington, Polk, Red Lake, and Roseau. 201 3rd St. NW Bemidji, MN 56601 218.759.2057 Phone 800.659.7859 MN Only

Youth Leadership: STAR Program Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect The Northwest Minnesota Foundation sponsors the STAR Team Program for youth leadership. Students Teaching Attitudes of Respect (STAR) is a program designed to increase students awareness in the areas of community building, media, specific skills needed to deal with conflict, and the utilization of personal power and strengths. The goal is to model and support a positive school culture. We believe that creating respectful communities and homes requires taking the time to learn necessary skills and integrating those skills into daily life. These skills are taught to teams of six students and an advisor from schools or sponsoring organizations in NMF s 12-county service area. How Does the STAR Program Work? Up to six teams attend a fall session and then host an on-site visit by STAR trainers in the winter. The two-day overnight sessions are held at Concordia Language Villages near Bemidji. The program is delivered by trainers from Peacemaker Resources. Assisting the trainers are the Youth Advocates, or YAs, who mentor and teach the 6th- and 7th-grade students as they go through the fall STAR Program training. They model respectful behavior and are present for the teachable moment to facilitate discussions and resolve differences. During the training STAR team members form relationships with students from other schools built on respect principles. Their leadership skills grow as they share lessons on the life skills learned in the trainings. The teams receive ongoing assistance from NMF through the year. Registration opens each year on July 1 for sessions that begin the following fall. Two or more sessions are held each year with six teams accepted for each session. We maintain a ratio of approximately two students per adult to ensure a positive, skill-building retreat. Students who participate in STAR Understand that they can contribute to the creation of a school environment that is safe and conducive to learning. Recognize that they have the power to make a positive difference in the world by teaching others. Gain confidence and leadership skills. Develop the attitude that peace skills are fun and cool. Become a role models for their peers. Get Involved Contact Northwest Minnesota Foundation at (218) 759-2057 to learn how you can become involved or donate to the STAR Program. For information about the STAR Program visit. To learn more about Peacemaker Resources, please visit their website at www.peacemakerresources.org.