First Quarter Impact Report
Minnesota's Small Business Support Network (SBSN) is 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 (SBAP) grant program, 21 organizations received 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.
During the first quarter of 2026, the SBSN assisted 3,214 clients and helped Minnesota small businesses access more than $29 million in funding. The SBSN also launched 170 new businesses while creating over 400 new full-time positions and retaining more than 6,700 positions
Find a SBSN provider in your area
SBDC Success Story: Lake Emily Resort
For Zack and Rachael Bialka, purchasing Lake Emily Resort was exciting, but it also came with major financial and operational challenges. Buying an existing business, especially one with cabins, campground operations and seasonal tourism demands requires far more than simply signing paperwork. So they turned to the North Central Small Business Development Center for assistance.
SBDC consultant Julie Anderholm helped the Bialkas navigate the complex SBA financing process through the Midwest Business Finance Corporation. As their business continued to grow, North Central SBDC connected Zack and Rachael to additional consultants for assistance with bookkeeping, marketing and more.
Today, Lake Emily Resort is a full-service destination that reflects the Bialka’s vision and deep commitment to hospitality.
Connect with your local SBDC
Greenbush Child Care Expands with DEED Grant
Lil Chompers is expanding in Greenbush thanks to grant funding from DEED’s Office of Child Care. The center received $240,000 for the construction of a new facility, which will increase the availability of child care in rural Rice County.
Lil Chompers is named after the school district’s alligator mascot. Center leaders plan to connect children with their community through a range of learning opportunities.
“We are taking an intergenerational approach,” said Lil Chompers President Karen Dvergsten. “The facility is being built adjacent to LifeCare Medical Center’s assisted living and nursing home to allow for intergenerational learning.”
DEED knows that accessible quality child care is critical for not only strong child development, but also the economic stability of families and communities.
Learn more about DEED’s Office of Child Care
July Small Business Call: How to Sell Online
Join our Small Business Call to learn how the Workforce Strategy Consultant Team helps Minnesota employers navigate today’s workforce challenges and build strategies for long-term success. This webinar will highlight how our team partners with businesses to support recruitment and retention, connect employers to workforce and training resources, provide labor market insights, and develop customized talent solutions aligned with industry needs.
Discover how collaboration with workforce, education, and community partners can help your business strengthen its workforce pipeline, access new opportunities, and stay competitive in a changing economy.
Register for July
Minnesota Angel Investor Network
The new Minnesota Angel Investor Network is a collaborative group of angel investors from Minnesota dedicated to providing outstanding financial returns to its accredited angel investors, educating future investors, and directly assisting early-stage companies while providing them with a source of funding.
Learn more, join as an investor, or apply to pitch
Hatch Bloomington Accepting Applications
Hatch Bloomington is a business grant competition that supports local entrepreneurs interested in retail enterprises in Bloomington.
For its first two years, Hatch supported businesses just getting started in the city. The 2026 program has been redesigned to support local businesses facing challenges or seeking to grow in the community.
Instead of awarding $100,000 in financial assistance to one entrepreneur, Hatch will now offer multiple existing Bloomington businesses a portion of the same award. Applications opened on June 10 and will close on July 6.
Learn more
SBA COVID Recovery Loan Notifications
Still getting letters or calls about your COVID Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)? Not sure what’s legit, what you owe, or what your options are? If you’re having trouble making payments, received a notice from the U.S. Treasury, or just have questions about your COVID EIDL, contact the Minnesota SBA directly to review your situation and discuss next steps. 612-370-2324 or minnesota@sba.gov.
July 1: BETA Showcase
July 8: Twin Cities B2B Marketing Breakfast
July 8: Fueling Small Business Growth with the SBA
July 15: Get Started with Elevate Hennepin
Startup and Small Business Calendar
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