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
🥐 A taste of Paris is coming to downtown Fergus Falls!After years of experience in the food industry and training in pastry arts, Emily McCune is opening Coquette Pâtisserie—a farm-to-table bakery focused on handcrafted French pastries, local ingredients, and a welcoming community space.“This is the Parisian energy I want,” said Emily. “A place where people can come in, sit down, have a coffee and pastry, and just be part of something.”With support from our lending program, Emily was able to turn her vision into reality and bring something new to the region.Visit wcif.org/blog/economy/coquette-patisserie/ to learn more about Coquette Pâtisserie and how our lending program supports entrepreneurs across our region. … See MoreSee Less
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Coquette Pâtisserie Brings French-Inspired Baking to Downtown Fergus Falls – West Central Initiative
wcif.org
Coquette Patisserie is designed around the idea of creating a welcoming, community-centered pastry and coffee experience.3 CommentsComment on Facebook
☀️ You’re invited to learn how solar can work for you!Join us for a Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 on May 12 from 7–8 p.m. at the Moorhead Public Library to learn how solar could work for your home or small business.You’ll hear from experts at Solar United Neighbors about how solar systems work, what financing options look like, and what to consider before making the switch. We’ll also share how the Lakes and Prairies Solar Co-op helps make the process simpler and more affordable.Co-op members also receive a free site evaluation to see if solar is a good fit!Visit wcif.org/event/lakes-and-prairies-solar-101-moorhead-2-2/ to RSVP today! … See MoreSee Less
Lakes and Prairies Solar 101 – Moorhead – West Central Initiative
wcif.org
Learn about solar energy and its benefits for your home, or small business.2 CommentsComment on Facebook
☀️ Thank you to everyone who joined us last week for our Solar Celebration! Your curiosity, conversations, and willingness to learn made it a meaningful evening as our community came together to celebrate the growth of solar across the region.A special thank you to our partners Solar United Neighbors, the Morris Model, and Clean Energy Resource Teams for helping make the event possible.Take a look at a few highlights from the event!Photo credits: Marie Schwirian Photography … See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook