Bremer Bank now offers money transfer services
In response to the growing needs of clients, Bremer Banks in Willmar and Marshall are now offering global money transfer services through Western Union. The new service offering will be available to both Bremer Bank account holders and walk-in consumers alike.
Energy Smart receives three-year funding from Xcel Energy
Energy Smart, a one-year-old program helping Minnesota businesses take advantage of rebates and other financial incentives for becoming more energy efficient, is receiving additional funding from Xcel Energy to continue its work for another three years.
The funding plan was recently approved by the Minnesota Office of Energy Security and took effect Jan. 1.
Energy Smart, run through the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce's Waste Wise program, started as a pilot in 2008. Its first year was funded by four investor-owned utilities, including Xcel Energy.
Continued funding by Xcel Energy will allow Energy Smart to assist a greater number of businesses that need help navigating the web of energy-efficiency incentives, such as rebates, low-interest loans and grants, available to them. Energy Smart provides its assistance to Minnesota businesses at no charge, regardless of energy utility.
Energy Smart also recently launched a blog with energy-efficiency tips, resources, and news and information on financing opportunities for businesses. Read the blog at www.mnenergysmart.com/blog or check out Energy Smart on Twitter at www.twitter.com/mnenergysmart
For further information about the program, businesses may contact Jill Curran, Energy Smart program manager, at 651-292-4653 or jcurran@mnchamber.com.
Ameriprise Financial awards $10,000 grant to Private Industry Council
Ameriprise Financial recently awarded a $10,000 grant to the Southwest Minnesota Private Industry Council to support the Marshall Financial Empowerment Collaborative. The grant will fund the organization's interactive Web tools project which will offer online tools to help individuals and families manager their finances.