The City Supports Entrepreneurs and Start-Ups
Small businesses are a big deal. They drive our economic growth. Minneapolis-Saint Paul has the fourth highest concentration of small businesses in the nation. Why do business in Minneapolis?
Start Up Tools
Site Selection
Financing Programs
Business Partners
Success Stories
The metro has many up-and-coming companies on the Russell 2000 Index –
more small business per capita than just about any other city.
Start Up Tools
- Technical Assistance is available to Minneapolis businesses and entrepreneurs through the Small Business Technical Assistance Program.
- Several organizations have business start up tools available to help you succeed, including SCORE, St. Thomas University, MCCD, MNTAP and University of Minnesota Northside Partnership.
- The City of Minneapolis Practical Guide to Starting a Business is helpful for those interested in starting a business in Minneapolis.
- The City's coordinated development review will help you successfully navigate the regulatory process which includes Planning/Zoning, Building Plan Review, Permitting and Licensing, and other regulatory review agencies.
Site Selection
- Search for available land, commercial or industrial properties in the metro via an online tool from the Minnesota Commercial Association of Real Estate or call Miles Mercer at (612) 673-5043.
Financing Programs
- The City offers a wide array of financing programs for Minneapolis businesses, ranging from $1,000 to $10 million, as well as staff assistance in selecting the appropriate program.
- Besides City support, other loans and grants for businesses may be available.
Business Partners
- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development provides useful tips on starting a business in Minnesota.
- Several regional Chambers of Commerce have programs and a diverse member network to help your business succeed.
- Connect with neighborhood business associations (pdf) and other business owners to stay informed.
- The Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers is an association of community development organizations committed to expanding the wealth and resources of neighborhoods through housing and economic development initiatives.
Success Stories
- Good things are happening in Minneapolis every day! Read about what other businesses are doing to succeed in the City.
City Staff Can Help!
The City’s Department of Community Planning & Economic Development has a variety of resources to help your business succeed. Call us for information on:
- Business Licensing: Call (612) 673-3000.
- General Business Questions and Site Selection: Miles Mercer at (612) 673-5043.
- Business Financing: Call (612) 673-5072.
- Employment and Training Assistance: Mark Brinda at (612) 673-6231.
We look forward to working with you!
Online information from the City of Minneapolis at MinneapolisMN.gov
Last updated Jan. 22, 2013