ST. PAUL, MN (NewsDakota.com) – The Bush Foundation awarded the 2019 Bush Prize for Community Innovation to five organizations with a track record of successful problem solving in their communities.
The Bush Prize celebrates organizations that are extraordinary not only in what they do but in how they do it. This year’s winners demonstrate a pattern of working inclusively, in partnership with others, to make the region better for all.
The Bush Prize, now in its seventh year, is awarded annually in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 Native nations that share the same geography.
The 2019 Bush Prize winners are:
Minnesota
Hmong American Partnership, Saint Paul ($500,000)
Minnesota Indian Women’s Resource Center, Minneapolis ($500,000)
Rural Renewable Energy Alliance, Backus ($408,000)
North Dakota
Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation, Valley City ($358,000)
South Dakota
Wokini Initiative of South Dakota State University, Brookings ($500,000)
About the Bush Foundation
The Bush Foundation invests in great ideas and the people who power them in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 Native nations that share the same geography. Established in 1953 by 3M Executive Archibald Bush and his wife Edyth, the Foundation supports organizations and people to think bigger and think differently about what is possible in their communities. The Foundation works to inspire and support creative problem solving – within and across sectors – to make the region better for everyone.
Valley City Barnes County Director of Economic Development Jennifer Feist talked about the Bush Prize honor with reporter Steve Urness.
Valley City-Barnes County Development Corporation tirelessly pursues a higher quality of life for its community, located 50 minutes west of Fargo. The organization employs a successful, non-traditional style of community-led economic development to address such issues as affordable housing, childcare, and development of a skilled workforce to serve growing businesses in the area.
The Corporation combines grassroots dedication, technical expertise and financial resources to catalyze economic opportunities and development. When faced with workforce shortages, it invested in education partnerships to provide a steady supply of skilled workers who can fuel long-term growth for area businesses. The Corporation also created space for technology companies and entrepreneurs.
The Corporation often makes bold moves when the well-being of its community is at stake. To attract an established manufacturer, it spearheaded vital infrastructure development along a major transportation corridor. To help businesses access capital for renovations and expansions, it took a leadership role with the Bank of North Dakota to establish a statewide financial assistance program to buy down interest rates.
The Corporation analyzes opportunities through a “people first” lens, making decisions based upon the needs of its residents and potential impact on local businesses. This approach results in consecutive economic wins that increase the health and prosperity of residents.
