Twenty-five small businesses have been awarded Promise Act Grants

Photo by Tom Hintgen
Promise Act Grants have been awarded to 25 small business across the region. The grants, which were announced by representatives from West Central Initiative, total $485,000.

By Tom Hintgen

Otter Tail County Correspondent

West Central Initiative (WCI) representatives told county commissioners on July 22 that 25 small business grants totaling $485,000 have been awarded to applicants throughout Otter Tail County. This represents the first of two grant rounds of the Promise Act Grant.

WCI administers the program for the nine-county region in partnership with the State of Minnesota. The Promise Grant Program was approved by the state legislature in 2023.

WCI, since 1986, has adhered to its focus of driving economic growth and community development throughout its nine-county region. Through grants, loans, community funds, and more, WCI strives to empower local organizations, businesses, and communities to reach their full potential.

County board members were told by WCI representatives Greg Wagner and Rick Schara that its organization is dedicated to building a thriving, inclusive and resilient future for this area of west central Minnesota.

The Minnesota Promise Program provides grants ranging from $10,000 to $50,000. Small businesses apply for grants through partner organizations such as West Central Initiative, based in Fergus Falls. Loans are also available. 

“We harness local resources and collaborate with partners to create a more thriving, inclusive and sustainable future for everyone who calls this area home,” Wagner says. Adds Schara, “We believe in the power of collaboration and generosity, working closely with public, private and nonprofit sectors to tackle regional challenges and create lasting positive change.” 

WCI, with sustainable development goals as its guide, runs a variety of programs aimed at addressing key areas such as economic development, rural democracy and environmental sustainability.

In recent years, economic development has shifted focus in west central Minnesota. WCI says that while attracting businesses and creating jobs remains important, the priority is now on five key areas: infrastructure, housing, child care, workforce attraction and community amenities.

The official administrator of the Promise Program is the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). Programs coordinated by DEED promote business recruitment, expansion, retention, workforce development and community development.