Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, in partnership with Valspar Corp., will accept applications for free paint and coating products for community restoration or beautification projects through the Picture-It-Painted grant program. This grant opportunity is available to communities and nonprofit organizations throughout SMIF’s 20-county area. A goal of this program is to encourage local volunteer involvement in the painting process. Applications are due to SMIF by March 3. Awardees will be notified at the end of March.

An estimated eight to 10 projects will be awarded paint products this year, with project priority based on visual impact, public benefit, volunteer participation and support, intended use, and benefit to those in need. Projects that may qualify for a grant include historic buildings, senior citizen centers, community centers, public buildings and parks, murals, or other visual impact projects. Projects that do not qualify include churches, city maintenance, privately owned facilities or schools (with the exception of mural projects). 

Since 1998, SMIF and Valspar have awarded over 4,500 gallons of paint to more than 185 projects in southern Minnesota. Last year’s recipients included beautification projects in Albert Lea, Eyota, Fairmont, Lake City, Lanesboro, Mabel, Mankato, Owatonna, Red Wing, Rochester and Saint Peter.

“As always we look forward to supporting Picture-It-Painted projects as they represent an opportunity for community collaboration and reward creativity,” said Tim Penny, Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation president.  

For more information or to apply visit www.smifoundation.org and click on “Applications” or contact Jennifer Heien at (507) 455-3215; jenniferh@smifoundation.org.