Our Work

We implement in-community projects to improve environmental, economic, and public health outcomes.

Adult and juvenile common loons on a lake at sunset.

Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund Coalition

Environmental Initiative is working alongside BIPOC environmental justice leaders and mainstream environmental groups to build a more equitable and accessible pool of funding for communities to build capacity and address environmental challenges.

Environmental Initiative Awards

The Environmental Initiative Awards is our annual recognition program that celebrates people and projects working in partnership at the nexus of a healthy environment, a prosperous economy, and an equitable society.

Environmental Justice Coordinating Council

The Environmental Justice Coordinating Council (EJCC) is a black and brown leadership base of environmental and social justice change-agents working cooperatively to understand and address environmental justice overburden in their communities.

White female farmer wearing a plaid shirt and hat standing in front of a red tractor next to a farm field.

Reach Farmers Faster

Environmental Initiative and Trust in Food partnered to engage farmers in Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska to understand what encourages their interest in conservation agriculture. A new online tool includes insights from our campaign and a step-by-step approach to guide future outreach efforts. Workshops and future research are being planned.

young man measuring a piece of wood for a canoe frame

Safety NET Twin Cities

Environmental Initiative coordinates an environmental workforce development program for a cohort of Twin Cities youth in partnership with public, private, and nonprofit partners.

pair of hands holding healthy soil. Farm field is visible in the background.

Soil Health Farm Tour

A self-guided tour highlights farmers in southeast Minnesota who are pursuing conservation practices on their operations. The goal is to showcase the benefits of these practices and encourage other farmers to seek out more information.

Sustainable Growth Coalition

Nearly 20 businesses and organizations are harnessing their expertise and building the vision and action steps required to achieve a fully realized circular economy.