Minneapolis boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering a wealth of resources to support small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re launching a new venture or seeking to expand an existing business, the city provides numerous programs and organizations dedicated to fostering growth and success.
City of Minneapolis Business Assistance
The City of Minneapolis offers comprehensive support through its Business Assistance programs. Entrepreneurs can access step-by-step guidance on starting, maintaining, or expanding a business. Services include business planning, licensing assistance, and connections to financing options. The Small Business Team is available to provide personalized support to navigate the various stages of business development. Learn more
Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP)
To further support small businesses, the city partners with local non-profit organizations through the Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP). This initiative offers free consulting services, including business plan development, financial management, marketing strategies, and assistance with licensing and compliance. B-TAP focuses on aiding businesses owned by minorities, women, and low-income individuals, ensuring equitable access to essential resources. Discover B-TAP
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
NEON is dedicated to building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis. Since 2006, NEON has provided free technical support, business development services, and access to capital. Their programs include training workshops, business incubators, and commercial kitchen spaces for food entrepreneurs. In 2025 alone, NEON disbursed $2.8 million in loans and assisted over 2,000 entrepreneurs. Explore NEON’s services
NextStage
NextStage offers customized support to entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Their services encompass business planning, entity selection, licensing assistance, and access to financing for start-up costs and working capital. In partnership with the City of Minneapolis, NextStage provides free, individualized consulting to help businesses plan, start, and thrive. Find out more about NextStage
Impact Hub Minneapolis-Saint Paul
For entrepreneurs focused on social impact, Impact Hub MSP offers a collaborative community and resources to drive positive change. Members gain access to shared workspaces, training opportunities, one-on-one coaching, and curated events. Impact Hub connects innovators to a global network, fostering collaboration and growth for mission-driven businesses. Join Impact Hub MSP
Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA)
MEDA provides integrated services to help BIPOC entrepreneurs succeed, including business consulting, access to capital, and connections to market opportunities. Their programs, such as Ascend Twin Cities, offer tailored support to scale businesses and enhance supplier diversity. Since its founding in 1971, MEDA has served thousands of entrepreneurs, contributing to economic equity and wealth creation. Learn about MEDA’s programs
By leveraging these resources, Minneapolis entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance necessary to navigate the challenges of business ownership and contribute to the city’s dynamic economic landscape.