A mini-documentary titled “Just Imagine” produced by the Southwest Initiative Foundation received the Marketing Award during the June 16 summer conference of the Economic Development Association of Minnesota at Ruttger’s Bay Lake Lodge in Deerwood, Minn.

According to SWIF President Sherry Ristau, “The mini-documentary ‘Just Imagine’ is intended to spark dialogue and brainstorming about how southwest Minnesota can adapt and thrive in a changing world. It focuses on the people, communities, businesses and organizations that are the best examples of progress and innovation in the region.”

More than 50 individuals representing more than a dozen communities and 30 businesses or institutions were interviewed, resulting in a 20-minute mini-documentary that offers a glimpse of what southwest Minnesota has to offer.

“Just Imagine” explores five areas critical to the region’s growth, including The Changing Face of Rural, Protecting and Capitalizing on Our Resources and Assets, Educating Future Leaders, Emerging Technologies, and Visionary Leadership and Planning.

“Just Imagine” is available for viewing on the Southwest Initiative Foundation’s Web site at www.swifoundation.org or on YouTube at www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0sjil3w-ic. Contact SWIF at (320) 587-4848 or (800) 594-9480 to request a DVD or VHS copy.

Headquartered in St. Paul, EDAM serves more than 500 economic development professionals throughout Minnesota. Award nominations are submitted each spring and winners are selected by an awards committee comprised of EDAM members. The awards are given annually to individuals or organizations that deserve recognition for outstanding economic development achievement.