Applications Open June 1 for 2026 Grants

First International Bank & Trust (FIBT) is proud to announce the launch of its 12th Annual Live First Community Giving Campaign, a signature community investment initiative that will award a total of $75,000 to nonprofit organizations and community projects across all FIBT markets.

Since launching in 2014, Live First Community Giving has become one of FIBT’s most visible and impactful ways to support local causes. This year’s $75,000 total represents an increased commitment to communities across FIBT’s footprint, designed to expand participation, storytelling, and community impact.

"We see every day how organizations in Sioux Falls step up to strengthen our community, and this campaign helps amplify that impact," said Jason Appel, Market President.

In 2025, the Sioux Falls community benefitted from a gift to Health Connect of South Dakota of $2,000 and highlighted the meaningful impact of local support across the Sioux Falls community. “We’re so grateful for organizations like this that make a real difference,” continues Appel. “At FIBT, we invest in our communities because we believe strong communities are built by people doing meaningful work every day.”

Who Can Apply?

Organizations that benefit communities served by First International Bank & Trust are encouraged to apply. This includes nonprofits, community groups, and project-based initiatives demonstrating local impact.

Many Chances for Organizations to Win!

The 2026 campaign will award $75,000 across multiple categories, offering nonprofits several opportunities to earn funding and recognition:

• Camp Champion Award (Grand Prize): $25,000
• Trailblazer Awards: Two grants of $10,000 each
• Community Builder Awards: Five grants of $5,000 each
• Campfire Choice Award (Public Vote): $5,000

How does voting work?

The Live First Community Giving campaign is designed to bring communities together to support the causes they care about most! Through a two-stage voting process, organizations have multiple opportunities to engage their supporters and build momentum.

During Tier One voting (July 6–12), all eligible applicants will appear on a centralized online ballot, giving communities the opportunity to rally behind their favorite organizations. The top 10 vote-getters will advance to the next stage.

In Tier Two voting (July 13–17), finalists will take the spotlight, competing for community support through a dedicated social media campaign where engagement helps determine the winner of the Campfire Choice Award.

Organizations can apply online from June 1 through June 26, 2026, right here: FIBT.com/LiveFirst/Insights/Live-First-Community-Giving-2026.

First International Bank & Trust is owned by Watford City Bancshares, Inc., which is owned by the Stenehjem family. First International Bank & Trust is a full service, independent community bank, a member of FDIC and an equal housing lender. First International Bank & Trust has been in business since 1910 and today operates branch locations in North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Arizona. More information about the company can be found at FIBT.com.

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