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.
Why Bringing Early Childhood Professionals Together Matters More Than Ever
After a pause during the pandemic, more than 500 early childhood professionals gathered once again for the Communities Collaborative Brain Development Conference in Mahnomen. With support from the Northwest Minnesota Foundation – a three-year $60,000 investment in partnership with the White Earth Tribal Nation through DEED Special Appropriation funding – this work continues to grow …
Finding a place on the ice in Warroad
In Warroad, hockey is more than a sport. It’s part of how people grow up. It’s part of how the community connects. And for many kids, it’s where they find a sense of belonging. But not every child arrives with skates on their feet. For families new to the community, or those who didn’t grow …
A Place to Plant Roots: How an Affordable Home Empowered a Community Leader
Jennifer Compeau never expected homeownership to feel possible. Like many people across northwest Minnesota, she was working hard to create stability for her family. She was participating in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program through Northwest Minnesota HRA and the Family Assets for Independence Minnesota (FAME) program while living in Section 8 housing. She dreamed of owning …