Southeast Partnership now accepting proposals for community-led sustainability projects

Southeast Minnesota residents with an idea to strengthen sustainability in their community can now apply for partnership support from the University of Minnesota Extension Southeast Regional Sustainable Development Partnership (Southeast RSDP).

Southeast RSDP supports local innovation by connecting community ideas to University of Minnesota resources. Community members work on diverse project teams that research, design and plan local sustainability projects with University students, faculty and staff.

Southeast RSDP seeks ideas from diverse populations and those who have not previously partnered with the University. In 2025, priorities identified by the Southeast RSDP board and work groups include fostering a resilient food system, addressing climate change and other ecological impacts, increasing opportunities around energy efficiency and renewable energy and encouraging local community action that welcomes all residents and celebrates the region’s rich cultural traditions, natural assets and vibrant local economies.

“We are seeking ideas and expertise from Southeast Minnesota residents that help shape resilient communities where all people have the opportunity to thrive,” said Southeast RSDP Executive Director Andi Sutton. “I encourage people to get in touch with me to talk about their ideas for making our communities more sustainable places.”

Applications for all funds are being accepted through February 14. Visit the link z.umn.edu/RSDPIdeaBrief  to read more about the programs and download application forms. Community members are encouraged to contact Sutton at sutto364@umn.edu or 857-928-4196 or Danielle Piraino at pirai006@umn.edu or 630-797- 8862 to discuss their ideas and ask questions. Successful projects are selected by the Southeast RSDP community-University governing board through a competitive process.

Examples of projects recently supported by the Southeast RSDP include working with local entrepreneurs in St. Peter, advancing clean energy solutions for affordable housing and researching the economic impact of farmers markets.  For more examples of projects supported by the Southeast RSDP, visit z.umn.edu/RSDPProjectExamples.

The Southeast RSDP serves Blue Earth, Faribault, Dodge, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, LeSueur, Mower, Nicollet, Olmsted, Fillmore, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca and Winona counties and the sovereign Native Nation of Prairie Island Indian Community.

Southeast RSDP is one of five regions of the University of Minnesota Extension Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP). For more information on RSDP, visit RSDP.umn.edu.

For more news from U of M Extension, visit www.extension.umn.edu/news or contact Extension Communications at extdigest@umn.edu. University of Minnesota Extension is an equal opportunity educator and employer.