Launching MN's Small Business Support Network
We’re excited to announce the launch of Minnesota’s Small Business Support Network (SBSN), a statewide initiative designed to strengthen and streamline support for small businesses and entrepreneurs across every region of the state.
Through the Small Business Assistance Partnership grant program, 21 organizations have been awarded a total of $5.1 million to partner with DEED in delivering high-quality guidance and resources to Minnesota’s small business community.
These SBSN partners provide no‑cost business development services, including education, technical assistance, subject‑matter expertise, and connections to local, regional, and statewide resources. Together, they form a powerful network dedicated to helping entrepreneurs start, grow, and scale their businesses.
Find an SBSN provider in your area
A Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota
DEED’s Small Business Assistance Office has published the 44th edition of its comprehensive Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota. The guide contains a concise summary of major issues, questions and concerns that are most commonly raised by those contemplating a new business. Learn more
Do you have questions or need support? Reach out to our Small Business Assistance team:
Phone: 651‑556‑8425 or toll‑free at 800‑310‑8323
Email: smallbusiness@state.mn.us
 April Small Business Call: Taxpayer Rights Advocate Office
Chris Henjum from the Minnesota Department of Revenue will share resources from the Taxpayer Rights Advocate Office (TRA). The Advocate Office is an independent office within the Department of Revenue and may be able to help those who have exhausted all other administrative remedies.
Sign up for reminders and access the call
Navigating Now: Ask-the-Expert Business Assistance Event
The Better Business Bureau, in partnership with DEED and other organizations, is hosting an event offering one-on-one sessions with business experts who can help with critical issues including law, finance, accounting and human resources. The event is Monday, April 13 in St. Paul.
Learn more
Apply for MN Cup
MN Cup, the largest statewide startup competition in the nation, is accepting applications through April 3. The competition is free and open to every entrepreneur in Minnesota. DEED hosted an info session with MN Cup Director Kailin Oliver last month – check it out!
Learn more
Walleye Tank Accepting Applications
Walleye Tank is seeking life science entrepreneurs for its spring competition. Walleye Tank offers founders the opportunity to pitch their innovative companies to a panel of experts for the opportunity to secure visibility and funding. The next event is May 4 at the Walker Art Center. Applications are open until April 4.
Learn more or apply for the competition
DEED Grant Recipient Featured on Shark Tank
REMplenish, a Minnesota company offering a water bottle that could prevent snoring, was featured on a recent episode of Shark Tank.
REMplenish received $72,494 in Innovation Grant funds for its myofunctional therapy water bottle. The bottle’s special nozzle turns the everyday act of drinking water into an exercise that strengthens the tongue, mouth and throat, which builds the foundation for easier breathing, deeper sleep and more energy.
Watch the episode here
 Revamping Red Wing's Main Street Through DEED Grant
In downtown Red Wing, a three-story building is being transformed into new housing and retail space thanks to DEED's Main Street Economic Revitalization program. Red Wing Downtown Main Street received $750,000 to support strategic redevelopment in its historic corridor, and the impact is already visible.
One of Red Wing's standout projects is Eagle House. Upon completion, the historic renovated building will include retail space and 12 new apartment units. Spaces like this are vital in a community where apartment vacancy rates are less than 1%.
More projects are on the way, including an indoor playground and cafe designed to serve families and children with special needs. DEED is proud to support projects like Eagle House and build vibrant downtowns for Minnesota.
Upcoming Events
March 31: BETA State of the State
April 2: Discover EO Minnesota: Is EO Right for You?
April 7: Minnesota Paid Leave Workshop for Employers
April 29: LevelUP! With AI
Startup and Small Business Calendar
Resources for Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses
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