Manufacturing jobs created in Wadena

WADENA - The Initiative Foundation and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development joined three other lenders to complete the financing of Innovative Surfaces, securing the future of 22 manufacturing jobs in Wadena.

In early 2009, Mike Bullinger, owner of Wadena-based Homecrest Outdoor Living, a manufacturer of outdoor patio furniture, saw an opportunity. When he learned that Innovative Surfaces, Homecrest's primary supplier of tabletops, was preparing to close its operations in Phoenix, he set out to purchase the business and move it to Wadena.

The Initiative Foundation and DEED's Minnesota Investment Fund filled the final gaps in a complex financing package that included investments from the Wadena Development Authority, North Central Economic Development Authority, Minnesota Agricultural and Economic Development Board, and Starion Financial of Fargo, N.D.

"Wadena has a talented work force," Bullinger said. "It's exciting when a community and even the region around it come together to bring these jobs to Minnesota."

"This is another project that demonstrates that manufacturing is alive and well in Minnesota," said DEED Commissioner Dan McElroy. "We are always ready to support public-private partnerships that benefit communities, businesses and working families."

This is the second time the Initiative Foundation and others have partnered to secure Wadena jobs. In 2008, Homecrest closed its doors and laid off 140 workers. Shortly after, Bullinger worked with the Initiative Foundation, Wadena Development Authority and Region Five Development Commission to ensure its reopening.

"The foundation's top priorities are to promote local business ownership and secure quality jobs in central Minnesota," said Randy Olson, the Initiative Foundation's vice president for economic opportunity. "We have a long-term commitment to the Wadena community."

Since 1986, the foundation has invested more than $2.8 million in grants and business investments in Wadena County, which have helped to secure 757 quality jobs. Wadena also participated in the foundation's Healthy Communities Partnership, a citizen leadership and planning program that led to several downtown revitalization efforts.

Based in Little Falls and serving central Minnesota's 14 counties, the Initiative Foundation offers business loans, grants to nonprofits and a variety of leadership programs that enable citizens to build stronger communities.