OWATONNA — The Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) is accepting applications for its Small Town Grants Program.

Towns with populations of 5,000 or less in SMIF’s 20-county region are eligible to apply. Requests of up to $10,000 will be considered.

The program seeks to build sustainable and vibrant communities by engaging community members, enhancing existing leadership and creating opportunities for new leadership to emerge. Rather than funding one-time projects, the program seeks to build collaborative efforts and partnerships that will foster collaboration for future work. Nonprofit organizations and units or agencies of local, state, and federal government are encouraged to apply.

Examples of previously-awarded projects include the development of community gardens, a trail system, a town brand identity, marketing approaches to attract new residents, a Makerspace program, and a multi-cultural festival.

Applications are due to SMIF by 4 p.m. on Aug. 30, 2019. Awardees will be notified by Oct. 7. For the application and guidelines, visit www.smifoundation.org or contact Jennifer Heien, Grants Coordinator, at 507-214-7040 or jenniferh@smifoundation.org.