There are several new programs available for entrepreneurs in Minnesota, Ramsey County and Saint Paul. Don’t miss out on the chance to advance your business without breaking the bank.
Access financial and technical support from the City of Saint Paul
The City of Saint Paul offers a variety of financial and technical assistance resources to support small businesses. If you would like business resource support from our team, the first step is to submit an Intake Form. Get connected today to learn more about what programs can help you reach your business goals!
Sign up for the SBA T.H.R.I.V.E. 2025 Program waitlist
The T.H.R.I.V.E. program from the Small Business Administration (SBA) provides free entrepreneurship education and training for executives of small, poised-for-growth companies. Participants will acquire MBA-equivalent knowledge, amplify leadership skills, and build relationships with a community of business peers, advisors, and experts. The next cohort starts in June. Join the waitlist to be notified when the application portal opens.
Funding available from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is still accepting applications for the Small Business Environmental Improvement Loan. These zero-interest loans assist small businesses to improve business practices to meet or exceed environmental regulations. Also, if your business has a refrigeration unit, you may be eligible for a next generation refrigeration grant.— apply by Monday, February 24.
Learn about BizRecycling grants
BizRecycling provides grants to businesses, apartment buildings, schools, food shelves, and farmer’s markets to reduce waste and improve recycling. Five different grants are available to help your business reduce, reuse, and recycle better. For example, Saint Paul nonprofit Face to Face used a BizRecycling grant to secure bins, labels, signage, and switch to compostable to-go containers. Learn more and apply for a grant.
Apply for CEO NOW cohort by February 18
Are you a small business owner with revenues between $250,000 and $2 million ready to take your business to the next level? CEO Now is a no-cost, seven-month program designed to help you grow your business with expert training, peer support, and practical tools. Learn how to balance finances, build a profitable sales process, and find key personnel to grow your team. Applications are open until Tuesday, February 18.
New resource: Free cybersecurity consultations from Metro State
Cybersecurity threats are real, and small businesses are often the most vulnerable. That’s why two strong Saint Paul institutions have partnered to provide FREE cybersecurity consultations for small businesses in our community.
Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) has launched a new initiative in partnership with Metro State University, focused on bolstering the cybersecurity practices of small businesses across Minnesota, with a strong focus on businesses on Saint Paul’s East Side.
Through this collaboration, students in Metro State’s cybersecurity program provide free consultations to assess and enhance the cybersecurity status of small businesses. This vital effort equips local entrepreneurs with the tools to safeguard their operations, while also providing real-world experience for students.
To sign up for your free consultation, submit the client intake form. Read this Star Tribune article or email CyberClinic@metrostate.edu for more information.
