Community Revitalization
We all want our towns to be a place where others want be. A community that is welcoming to visitors and thriving for those who live, work, raise families, and retire in the area.
Community revitalization is an effort to make sure our region can address the challenges of rural communities, connect to needed resources, and build upon the strengths and natural assets rich within each unique area.

Community revitalization is good for us all
When rural communities achieve their full potential, life gets better for existing residents and for new residents. That’s why NMF is working with community partners and leaders to help make each community’s vision a reality.
NMF is lifting up communities and building a stronger future together
NMF believes that rural main streets and downtowns cannot achieve revitalization without closing social divides. That’s why we’re working to nurture an economic ecosystem that is regionally connected, innovative, and rooted in the assets of its local residents and businesses. We support a built environment that is accessible, flexible, and advances community health and resiliency. We encourage civic structures that are locally organized, inclusive, and support network building. We hope to foster a vibrant, cohesive social environment that is reflective of community history and identity.
Resources for revitalization
- University of Minnesota extension
- Small Business Administration
- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
- Headwaters Regional Development Commission
- Northwest Regional Development Commission
- Discovery & Development Hub – Warroad
- Launchpad Bemidji
- Advance Thief River
- White Earth Investment Initiative
- 4 Directions Development (Red Lake)

Learn about the business support and loans we provide

See how we support communities with grants

Help us revitalize communities
News & Ideas
See how our programs and partnerships are revitalizing communities in our region.
Northwest Minnesota Foundation Pushes more than $780,000 into the Region in First Quarter of FY24
More than $780,000 was loaned or granted out into the region from July through September through the Northwest Minnesota Foundation.
Northwest Minnesota Foundation Honors Six Awardees who are championing community
At its annual recognition event, the Northwest Minnesota Foundation celebrated six awardees from throughout the region whose work and energies are leading and supporting community in meaningful ways.
$1.1M in grants awarded to Northwest Minnesota Businesses to support revitalization
Twenty-one businesses in Mahnomen, Waubun, Richwood, East Grand Forks, and Bemidji have received a combined $1.1 million in funding to support economic revitalization in their communities.


