Minneapolis boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, supported by a range of resources designed to help small businesses thrive. From city initiatives to community organizations, these programs provide essential assistance to local entrepreneurs.
City-Sponsored Support Programs
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 initiative offers:
- License fee relief for food and beverage establishments.
- Free event permits to encourage community gatherings.
- Consulting services for business planning and recovery.
- Marketing support to boost visibility and foot traffic.
- Grants for cultural mall operators to maintain vibrant commercial spaces.
These measures aim to stabilize businesses, alleviate financial strain, and revitalize commercial areas.
Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP)
BTAP connects small businesses with free consulting services, assisting with:
- Developing business, financial, and marketing plans.
- Navigating licensing requirements.
- Preparing legal documents.
- Managing daily operations.
By partnering with over 20 diverse providers, BTAP ensures tailored support for entrepreneurs at various stages of their business journey.
Community Organizations Making an Impact
Northside Economic Opportunity Network (NEON)
Since 2006, NEON has been dedicated to building wealth for low-to-moderate income entrepreneurs in North Minneapolis. Their services include:
- Free technical support and business development assistance.
- Training workshops to enhance entrepreneurial knowledge.
- Access to coworking spaces and commercial kitchen rentals.
- Business incubator programs offering comprehensive support.
In 2025, NEON’s impact was significant, with $2.8 million in loans disbursed, over 6,000 hours of technical assistance provided, and 137 new businesses launched.
Chameleon Shops Initiative
The Chameleon Shops program fosters an inclusive downtown by supporting BIPOC and women-owned businesses. It offers:
- Networking and training opportunities.
- Pop-up events to showcase products and services.
- An intensive 8-week cohort program to refine business plans and prepare for brick-and-mortar operations.
This initiative has successfully connected local entrepreneurs with retail spaces in downtown Minneapolis, contributing to a more diverse and vibrant commercial landscape.
Success Stories: Local Entrepreneurs Thriving
Lovely’s Sewing & Arts Collective
Keiona Cook realized her dream by opening Lovely’s Sewing & Arts Collective in the IDS Center. Her business offers sewing socials, corporate team-building events, and youth camps, adding a unique creative space to the downtown area.
Still Grind Coffee
Gerry Exom launched Still Grind Coffee in the LaSalle Plaza complex, bringing a locally owned coffee shop to the skyway system. His venture has seen rapid growth, reflecting the community’s support for independent retailers.
These stories exemplify the resilience and innovation of Minneapolis’s small business community, demonstrating how available resources and community support can lead to entrepreneurial success.