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2019 Bush Prize for Community Innovation Winners

November 12, 2019

The Bush Foundation is proud to introduce the 2019 Bush Prize for Community Innovation winners: five organizations with a track record of successful problem solving in their communities.

The Bush Prize celebrates organizations that are extraordinary not only in what they do but in how they do it. This year's winners demonstrate a pattern of working inclusively, in partnership with others, to make the region better for all.

The Bush Prize, now in its seventh year, is awarded annually in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and the 23 Native nations that share the same geography.

"The 2019 Bush Prize winners exhibit remarkable creativity and tenacity in addressing issues that are most important to their communities," said Bush Foundation President Jennifer Ford Reedy. "Their problem solving builds strength not only in their local community but also in the entire region."

Bush Prize winners receive a package that includes promotional support and materials, and an unrestricted grant equal to 25 percent of the organization's prior fiscal year budget, up to $500,000. The Foundation received 81 applications for the 2019 Bush Prize. Three panels of community members chose the winners from their respective states. Learn more about the selection process.

"This year's winners are defined by their courage," said Mandy Ellerton, Community Innovation Director. "They shake loose solutions to seemingly intractable problems by opening themselves up to surprising partnerships, sharing ownership and bringing together people who don't always agree. This method of working takes guts, and our region is better because of their courage."