Ixchel McKinnie just joined Hennepin County as the newest Elevate Hennepin business navigator. She brings a deep business-support background to the role and was previously an advisor with ConnectUp!.
Connecting with her or any of our navigators is the best first stop in Elevate Hennepin. As McKinnie said, she has a 15-minute process to guide business owners to the ideal Elevate resource.
“I start off with a series of questions to find out what they have already foundationally for their business,” said McKinnie. “If they don't have the foundational pieces, mission, vision, and values, then then I'm going to steer them to an advisor who's going to help them think about what their goals are.”
If a business owner has a solid foundation, then it’s a matter of connecting with a specialist advisor. But not just any advisor; McKinnie said it’s essential to build a strong relationship.
“There is a bit of an art to this,” said McKinnie. “I consider work styles and personalities because this is an ongoing relationship that you're establishing and there's a need for a connection and trust.”
Then, as the advising or technical assistance begins, navigators keep tabs on the progress and watch for other ways to go deeper with support with any of the more than 30 Elevate Hennepin advisors.
“Maybe you start with somebody who is going to review your fundamentals, and then you go to an advisor who is going to help you refine your customer profile and then do some financial planning,” said McKinnie. “No matter what we do, it's with that business owner in mind.”
Book a 15-minute consult with Ixchel McKinnie today to get started.
Elevate Talent, a new Elevate Hennepin opportunity, offers customized human resources support for eligible small to mid-size local businesses who are struggling to find and retain workers. Businesses who participate will receive meaningful support, and leave the program with a strategic plan to improve their ability to attract and retain talent.
To be eligible, business owners must:
Be incorporated or operating in Hennepin County
Employ at between 10 and 80 employees
Report more than $1 million in revenue
Have a desire to improve company culture and compensation
Space for this program is limited. Applications will be accepted through October 25. The program will run from December 2023 through November 2024.
Join one of three information sessions to learn more about CEO Start, a cohort opportunity designed to validate business ideas. See if the program is right for your business growth journey. Sessions are available online and in person.
In-person at Bloomington Civic Plaza, November 1, 8 a.m. - 9 a.m. Register today
In-person at Brooklyn Park Library, November 1, 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Register today
Greater Minnesota Government Procurement Fair
Small businesses interested in doing business with government agencies and prime contractors are encouraged to attend this premiere event on selling products and services to the government.
In-person event, October 26,
Elevate Hennepin: Tech solutions for retail success
Build your business technology skills with Elevate Hennepin advisor Ini Augustine, CEO of Technologist Computers. Develop working knowledge of hardware and software tools to push your business forward.
Join one of two online information sessions to learn how entrepreneurs like you can and are using this resource hub for expert business guidance and support, all at no cost.
In this session from Elevate Hennepin educational partner SCORE, learn about credit history, background, and financial data that lenders typically require before extending a loan.
Join one of two virtual information sessions to learn how construction-industry entrepreneurs can get industry-specific, and general business guidance through Elevate Hennepin Construction.
