Minneapolis boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering a wealth of resources to support small businesses and startups. Whether you’re in the planning stages or looking to expand, the city provides numerous programs and organizations dedicated to fostering business growth.
City of Minneapolis Initiatives
The City of Minneapolis offers comprehensive assistance through its Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP). This program connects entrepreneurs with free consulting services, covering areas such as business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management. B-TAP particularly focuses on supporting businesses owned by minorities, women, and low-income individuals. More information can be found on the city’s official website.
In response to challenges faced by local businesses, the city established the Small Business Resiliency Fund. This $7 million fund aims to help businesses stabilize and recover, offering license fee relief, free event permits, consulting services, and marketing support. Details about the fund are available here.
Nonprofit Support Organizations
Several nonprofit organizations in Minneapolis are dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs:
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
NEON focuses on building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis. They offer free technical support, business development services, and access to commercial kitchen spaces for food entrepreneurs. Learn more about their programs on their website.
NextStage
NextStage provides customized support for entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Their services include business planning, startup assistance, and growth strategies, all offered at no cost to residents and businesses in Minneapolis. More information is available here.
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 to connect entrepreneurs and innovators. Explore their offerings on their website.
Additional Resources
For those interested in cooperative business models, the city’s Cooperative Technical Assistance Program (C-TAP) provides support for emerging cooperatives, including consulting services and feasibility training. Details can be found here.
Furthermore, the city’s Developers Technical Assistance Program (D-TAP) supports small and emerging real estate developers with classes, workshops, and project advice. More information is available on the city’s website.
By leveraging these resources, Minneapolis entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the city’s dynamic and diverse economic landscape.