Bank Midwest – Community Fund (Annual / Capital Projects)
Capital Grants Supporting Community Betterment Across MN, IA, and SD
The Bank Midwest Community Fund supports larger, community-based capital projects that address local needs and deliver long-term community benefit. The program is designed for nonprofit initiatives that strengthen arts, environment, recreation, youth, and broader community betterment within Bank Midwest’s market areas.
Organization
Bank Midwest
Support Type
Charitable grants (capital campaign support)
Funding Amount
- Minimum grant: $5,000
- Award amounts are evaluated case by case
Geographic Focus
Eligible projects must benefit communities within Bank Midwest’s service areas:
- Minnesota: Fairmont, Jackson, Sherburn, Windom, Westbrook, New Ulm
- Iowa: Armstrong, Okoboji, Spirit Lake, Wall Lake
- South Dakota: Sioux Falls
About the Funder
Bank Midwest emphasizes the “community” in community banking. Through the Community Fund, the Bank partners with local nonprofits to help communities reach their full potential—responding to both times of opportunity and times of need with strategic, place-based investments.
What This Program Supports
Primary Focus Areas
- Arts
- Environment
- Recreation
- Youth
- Community Betterment projects with broad, long-term impact
Funding Intent
- Support is intended for capital campaigns and projects that provide broad-based, lasting community benefit
- Funds are not intended for operating support or endowments
Eligibility & Restrictions
Eligible Applicants
- Local, community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
- Projects that address unique community issues within the Bank Midwest market area
Ineligible Requests
- Individuals
- Government agencies
- Political or religious organizations
- Campaigns, candidates, or lobbying activities
- Operating or endowment funds
Review Criteria
Applications are competitive and evaluated on:
- Connection to Bank Midwest customers, employees, communities, and shareholders
- Number of people reached (directly or indirectly)
- Geographic reach within the market area
- Potential for employee involvement
- Clarity and strength of the project case (marketing materials encouraged)
Application Timeline & Review
- Review Cycle: Annual
- 📅 Review Timing: Applications reviewed annually in late May
Application / Request Process
Applicants must complete the Community Fund application and may include:
- One additional 8.5” x 11” page of supporting information
- Optional marketing materials developed to illustrate the project
Submit completed applications to:
Amy Radcliffe
1102 Sanborn Ave
P.O. Box 979
Okoboji, IA 51355
📠 Fax: 712-332-7049
Questions & Contact
✉️ communitygiving@bankmidwest.com
(Or contact any Bank Midwest representative)
Apply / Learn More
➡️ https://www.bankmidwest.com/community-giving/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This fund is a strong fit for organizations that:
- Are planning capital projects with long-term community benefit
- Serve Bank Midwest communities in MN, IA, or SD
- Can demonstrate broad reach, partnerships, and community buy-in
- Are seeking $5,000+ for visible, place-based improvements
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
- Review Type: Annual (late May)
- Minimum Grant: $5,000
- Funding Use: Capital campaigns only
- Best Suited For: Community facilities, recreation assets, environmental projects, arts spaces, and youth-serving infrastructure in Bank Midwest markets
