Neighbors helping neighbors
We know Northwest Minnesota offers boundless opportunities. That’s why we measure our impact by the results we create for the people, businesses, and communities we serve.
Featured achievements
Leadership training for 4,000 youth and adults
More than $62.5 million in grants
4,168 jobs created or retained
Serving the needs in 45 communities
Accomplishments
In addition to the important work we continue to pursue, we have achieved the following:
- Made 927 loans for a total of $33.7 million,
- Created or retained more than 4,168 jobs in our region
- Leveraged more than $140 million in additional lending
- Made over 11,800 grants totaling more than $62.5 million
- Our leadership programs have trained almost 4,000 youth and adults
- Our nonprofit management and diversity training programs have addressed the needs of 358 organizations and 45 communities
- We have more than $97 million in total assets and 440 funds in our family of funds
Impact Report
Click HERE to read our most recent Impact Report.
Financials: Form 990
Click HERE to read our most recent IRS Form 990.
News & Ideas
See how our initiatives, partnerships, and collaborations are making an impact.
Bemidji 31 Education Foundation Fund meets fundraising goal for Bemidji High School Manufacturing Modernization Project
George W. Neilson Foundation investment and local fundraising support pave the way for new manufacturing equipment, with broader expansion plans already underway. July 28, 2026 (BEMIDJI, MN) – A partnership among local philanthropy, community donors, and regional businesses has successfully secured funding to modernize Bemidji High School’s Machine Tool Classroom, ensuring students have access to …
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 …
Everett Wilimek Endowment for Orchestral String Studies Seeks Grant Applicants
The Everett Wilimek Endowment for Orchestral String Studies is pleased to announce that applications for its 2026 grant cycle will be accepted from July 1-31. The Everett Wilimek Endowment is in the family of funds at Northwest Minnesota Foundation. Individuals within a 30-mile radius of Bemidji may apply for funding of up to $1,500. The grants …
