Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, in partnership with 14 local Ace Hardware stores, will accept applications for free paint and coating products for community mural, community welcome sign or historic structure projects through its Paint the Town grant program.

The grant opportunity is available to communities with a population under 10,000 throughout SMIF’s 20-county region. A goal of the program is to encourage local volunteer involvement in the painting process. A total of up to 10 projects will be awarded paint products based on visual impact, public benefit, volunteer participation and community support.

“Investing in the arts in our smaller communities is an important component of economic development for our region,” said Tim Penny, SMIF president and CEO. “We are proud to support these projects alongside Ace Hardware.”

Applications are due to SMIF by May 15. For more information or to apply, visit www.smifoundation.org or contact Jennifer Heien at 507-214-7040 or jenniferh@smifoundation.org.