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 success.
City of Minneapolis Business Assistance
The City of Minneapolis offers comprehensive support through its Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP). This initiative connects entrepreneurs with local non-profit organizations that provide free consulting services, including business plan development, financial projections, licensing guidance, and marketing strategies. B-TAP particularly focuses on assisting businesses owned by minorities, women, and low-income individuals. More information is available on the city’s official website. ([minneapolismn.gov](https://www.minneapolismn.gov/business-services/business-assistance/?utm_source=openai))
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
NEON has been instrumental in building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs since 2006. The organization offers free technical support, business development services, and access to capital. In 2025 alone, NEON disbursed $2.8 million in loans to small businesses and provided over 6,000 hours of technical assistance. Their programs include training workshops, business incubators, and commercial kitchen rentals for food entrepreneurs. ([neon-mn.org](https://www.neon-mn.org/?utm_source=openai))
NextStage
NextStage provides customized support to entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Their services range from helping new entrepreneurs write business plans and test concept feasibility to assisting established businesses with growth strategies and securing capital. NextStage’s nonprofit services are available free of charge to residents and businesses in Minneapolis and surrounding counties. ([nextstagemn.org](https://www.nextstagemn.org/?utm_source=openai))
Impact Hub Minneapolis-Saint Paul
Impact Hub MSP is part of a global network focused on building entrepreneurial communities for social impact. They offer shared workspace, training opportunities, one-on-one coaching, and curated events. Members can access programs like free business coaching, social startup accelerators, and communities of practice, all designed to support entrepreneurs in creating positive change. ([minneapolis.impacthub.net](https://minneapolis.impacthub.net/?utm_source=openai))
Small Business Resiliency Fund
In response to challenges faced by local businesses, the City of Minneapolis established the $7 million Small Business Resiliency Fund. This fund provides license fee relief, support for events in commercial areas, and cultural market grants, aiming to help businesses recover and thrive. ([minneapolismn.gov](https://www.minneapolismn.gov/news/2026/march/sbrf/?utm_source=openai))
By leveraging these resources, Minneapolis entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance necessary to navigate the complexities of starting and growing a business, contributing to the city’s dynamic and diverse economic landscape.