Northwest Area Foundation works to reduce poverty in rural and urban Latino communities in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Idaho, Washington and Oregon. It offers mission-related investments in the form of a venture capital fund and provides capital to grow established businesses in the region that help to support local economies by creating and retaining jobs that pay living wages and benefits. The organization is comprised of more than 40 staff members and directors. Northwest Area Foundation also maintains financial resources and guidance and coaching staff to help communities develop and launch strategic plans to achieve long-term poverty reduction. It also has an online resource that features case studies, ideas, practical strategies and useful tools. The organization is located in St. Paul, Minn.