Minneapolis offers a wealth of resources designed to support small businesses and entrepreneurs at every stage of development. Whether you’re planning a startup, seeking to expand, or aiming to enhance your business operations, the city provides various programs to assist you.
City of Minneapolis Business Assistance
The City of Minneapolis offers comprehensive support through its Business Assistance programs. These resources guide entrepreneurs from the initial planning stages to launching and growing their businesses. Services include help with business planning, licensing, and access to financing options.
Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP)
BTAP connects small businesses with free training and consulting services. This program offers assistance in developing business, financial, and marketing plans, meeting licensing requirements, and improving day-to-day operations. More information is available on the city’s website.
Small Business Resiliency Fund
To aid in recovery from recent challenges, the city established the Small Business Resiliency Fund. This $7 million fund provides support such as license fee relief for food and beverage businesses, free event permits, consulting services, marketing funding, and grants for cultural mall operators.
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
NEON focuses on building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis. They offer free technical support, training workshops, and coworking spaces to help businesses thrive.
Chameleon Shops Initiative
The Chameleon Shops initiative connects local small businesses, particularly those owned by BIPOC and women entrepreneurs, with retail spaces in downtown Minneapolis. This program fosters an inclusive and vibrant downtown by providing networking, training, and opportunities for pop-ups and events.
NextStage
In partnership with the City of Minneapolis, NextStage offers individual and small group consulting for entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Services include assistance with business planning, entity selection, licensing, compliance, and access to financing for startup costs, inventory, equipment, and working capital.
By leveraging these resources, Minneapolis entrepreneurs can access the support needed to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to a thriving local economy.