Minneapolis – (Oct. 6, 2006) – During 2006, Marquette Financial Companies (MFC) will increase its local grantmaking. To increase business leader and employee involvement in grant decisions, a total of $450,000 in funds will be distributed with the help of regional giving committees. Committees have been established in the Midwest (Minneapolis, St. Paul, Chicago), Southwest (Phoenix, Los Angeles), and South Central (Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston).

“Creating Regional Committees extends the reach of Marquette’s giving program and reflect growing business in other markets.” said Bert Colianni, Executive Vice President. “While MFC’s tradition of supporting Twin Cities’ organizations grows, we’re proud to share our grantmaking tradition and profits in other regions.”

New guidelines for MFC regional grantmaking were recently approved. Priorities for regional giving are: Affordable Housing, Community Economic Development, Financial Literacy and Human Services.

Eligible nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply for general operating and program support by the October 31, 2006 deadline. Guidelines and an application form are available at www.pohladfamilygiving.org or by contacting Rose Peterson, Program Manager, at rpeterson@pohladfamilygiving.org or 612-661.3903.