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From Arriving to Thriving

At the International Institute of Minnesota, we help immigrants and refugees make Minnesota their home.

 

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It’s more important than ever to stay informed with trustworthy information. Be the first to learn about Institute resources and how to help. Sign up now for our monthly newsletter.

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Did You Know?

Our clients, students and staff come from all over the world, contributing to Minnesota’s culture, labor market and economy.

  • 100,000 +

    Hours

    of English instruction provided last year.

  • 110

    Countries

    Last year, we worked with 5,709 clients from all over the world.

  • 28

    Languages

    We’re proud to have a diverse staff that supports our clients.

  • 100 +

    Years

    years serving New Americans since our founding in 1919.

Four women of different ethnicities wear bright colors and smile.

Welcome to the International Institute of Minnesota

We empower New Americans as they begin new lives and achieve their full potential. Our comprehensive services range from refugee resettlement and citizenship and immigration support to English education, college preparation, and workforce and leadership development. Since our founding in 1919, the Institute has been a pillar of support for New Americans as they journey to safety, stability and success.

  • Compassion

    We lead with compassion, listen with patience, and respond with sensitivity and discretion to every unique situation, individual and family we meet.

  • Connection

    We serve as a bridge between families, individuals and the greater Minnesota community as well as donors, policymakers and volunteers alike.

  • Respect

    We believe in fostering the potential of every New American to learn, grow, thrive and enrich our Minnesota community.

What Our Clients Are Saying

What’s New?

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  • Media Coverage

    Sahan Journal: Immigrants’ pathway to citizenship under Trump is slower, more costly and frustrating

    Sahan Journal | The number of Minnesotans becoming U.S. citizens has slowed to a trickle due to several Trump administration policies, including a pause on naturalization interviews and oath ceremonies.

    Learn More
  • Stories

    Entrepreneurship Student Businesses

    Since the launch of the Institute’s Entrepreneurship Training nearly three years ago, our innovative graduates have used what they learned in the class to start businesses of their own. Browse our students’ businesses and find out how to support them!

    Learn More
  • Newsletter

    March 2026

    In this month’s newsletter, you’ll learn about:

    • 2025 Annual Report
    • Thank you to small businesses and organizations
    • Fight ignorance, not immigrants lawn signs
    • 3rd annual New Americans New Beginnings fundraising event
    • January and February graduates
    • Volunteer attorneys needed 
    • Volunteer spotlight
    Read Now
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Make an Impact

With your support, we can provide New Americans with a strong start to a new life. Whether it’s the gift of financial support, your time or resources, we are most grateful for your generosity; it is essential to the success of our community.

A man writing in class looks up and smiles at the camera.