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
$93M
in grants
$62M
in loans
9,230
jobs created or retained
$303M
loan dollars leveraged

You’re invited to a conversation about generosity that lasts for generations!Join us and Lakes Country Service Cooperative for The Full Circle of Philanthropy: From First Gift to Lasting Legacy on April 7 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Lakes Country Service Cooperative in Fergus Falls. This interactive session will explore legacy giving, relationship-based fundraising, and practical ways nonprofits can build lasting donor relationships.This workshop will include real-world tools, conversation practice, and strategies you can start using right away. If you’re a board member, nonprofit leader, development staff, or a volunteer who wants to strengthen their fundraising and create lasting community impact, this event is for you!Lunch is included. Visit lcsc.regfox.com/the-full-circle-of-philanthropy-from-first-gift-to-lasting-legacy to register today! … See MoreSee Less
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The Full Circle of Philanthropy: From First Gift to Lasting Legacy
lcsc.regfox.com
Get tickets online for The Full Circle of Philanthropy: From First Gift to Lasting Legacy here.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Generosity is Brad and Nancy Straw’s way of life. Nancy served on our lending team and later as West Central Initiative President for 15 years, helping shape the region’s economic development efforts. Today, she and her husband Brad continue that legacy of generosity through a Donor Advised Fund—reinvesting in the communities that shaped their lives.“We’re grateful that we’re in a position to give back. Having a Donor Advised Fund makes gifting to causes we care about quite easy,” said Nancy. From early childhood to sustainability and civic leadership, the Straws believe in strengthening west central Minnesota for generations to come.Visit wcif.org/blog/generosity/brad-and-nancy-straw/ to read their story and learn how you can leave a lasting legacy with West Central Initiative. … See MoreSee Less
Brad and Nancy Straw’s Lifetime of Generosity – wcif.org
wcif.org
Brad and Nancy Straw are champions of the region. Their generosity started at early ages and continues today through their Donor Advised Fund.3 CommentsComment on Facebook
🚀 Rocket Ball is bringing fun to families across the region!John McDonough turned a simple game idea into Rocket Ball—a high-energy tabletop game that feels like air hockey meets pinball. From hosting tournaments at Buffalo Wild Wings to showcasing at Gen Con, the excitement has been building fast.“It’s like being able to put an air hockey table right on your kitchen table and just start playing—but it’s even more fun,” said John.Rocket Ball is now assembling games in Barnesville with support from our lending team. John is ramping up production and ready for a big debut at the Fargodome Home & Garden Show, February 27 through March 1.Visit wcif.org/blog/economy/rocket-ball/ to read how local invention, small-town support, and the right financing can bring big ideas to life. … See MoreSee Less
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wcif.org
wcif.org
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