Minneapolis boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering a wealth of resources to support small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs. Whether you’re in the planning stages or looking to expand your existing business, several organizations provide essential services to help you succeed.
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
NEON has been dedicated to building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs since 2006. They offer free technical support, including business development, training workshops, and access to commercial kitchen spaces for food-related businesses. In 2025 alone, NEON disbursed $2.8 million in loans to small businesses and provided over 6,000 hours of technical assistance. Learn more about NEON’s services.
NextStage
NextStage provides customized support for entrepreneurs at every stage of business development. Their services include assistance with business planning, entity selection, licensing, compliance, and access to financing for start-up costs and working capital. These services are available at no cost to residents and businesses in Scott, Carver, and Hennepin counties, as well as the City of Minneapolis. Explore NextStage’s offerings.
Impact Hub Minneapolis-Saint Paul
Impact Hub MSP is part of a global network focused on building entrepreneurial communities for social impact. They connect entrepreneurs and innovators to resources, knowledge, and community through shared workspace, training opportunities, one-on-one coaching, and curated events. Their programs include free business coaching, communities of practice, and social startup accelerators. Discover Impact Hub MSP.
Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA)
MEDA offers integrated services in business consulting, access to capital, and connections to help entrepreneurs succeed. Their programs, such as Ascend Twin Cities, provide access to capital, market opportunities, and business education to underserved entrepreneurs. Since its founding in 1971, MEDA has served thousands of entrepreneurs, focusing on creating economic equity through successful entrepreneurship. Find out more about MEDA.
City of Minneapolis Small Business Resiliency Fund
In response to challenges faced by small businesses, the City of Minneapolis established a $7 million Small Business Resiliency Fund. This initiative provides license fee relief, support for events and activations in commercial areas, cultural market grants, and more, aiming to help businesses recover and thrive. Read about the Small Business Resiliency Fund.
These organizations and initiatives exemplify Minneapolis’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for small businesses and entrepreneurs. By leveraging these resources, local business owners can navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and contribute to the city’s dynamic economy.