 We are eager to show off the new and improved Elevate Hennepin website. The new site is live and offers an improved experience based on your feedback.
Over the past two years, we've been listening closely to our community of business owners, advisors, and our partners across Hennepin County. Thank you for those insights—they were critical to ensure the new site is engaging, easy to navigate, and packed with the resources business owners and entrepreneurs need to power their businesses. Many thanks to you for being part of the Elevate Hennepin journey.
What's new?
- Clear and simple navigation: We've streamlined the layout and menus, making it easier than ever to find what we offer and how to access advising, training, and events.
- Accessibility for all: The site is designed to be inclusive, regardless of technical skills or business background.
- Engaging design: We've incorporated vibrant visuals and a modernized approach to browsing resources.
Explore the new website today to get going or keep going with Elevate Hennepin.
 The first class of CEO Now with Hennepin County Commissioner Debbie Goettel.
Applications close for the next CEO Now group, apply by end of day April 25 for this growth-oriented training opportunity.
Participants in CEO Now will join a group of peer founders and CEOs to learn how to think about their business systematically via the nationally recognized StreetWise ‘MBA’ from Interise, local advisors, and peer business owners. Owners will learn and discuss everything from strategy, finances and cashflow to building a profitable sales process and finding key personnel. They will leave the program with an expanded network, a three-year strategic road map, and the confidence to take their next steps forward.
Read how two CEO Now graduates reinvigorated their businesses:
Eligible businesses can join this cohort at no cost, thanks to ongoing investments in the business community from Hennepin and Ramsey Counties.
Learn more, see eligibility guidelines and apply today at CEO Now.
 Don’t miss the next Tech Essentials workshop series from Elevate Hennepin advisor Asian Media Access (AMA). Tune in for essential knowledge about doing digital business today and insight into implementing new technologies in your business.
Each Wednesday evening for the next seven weeks, business technology experts will walk entrepreneurs though key topics from digital strategy to AI and digital advertising processes that work today.
Topics for each of the upcoming workshops include:
- April 24 – Website design and development with WordPress
- May 1 – Search engine optimization (SEO) for Google and Bing
- May 8 – Social media marketing and management
- May 15 – Online advertising and pay per click (PPC) on Google
- May 22 – Email marketing essentials
- May 29 – Leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools
- June 5 – Website traffic analytics, measuring success
Hennepin County business owners can also qualify for technology reimbursements and no-cost WordPress development support.
Sign up today and stay tuned for further events around branding and technology from Neighborhood Development Committee (NDC) starting in May.
 The basics of contracts
In this presentation from Elevate Hennepin educational partner SCORE, business attorney Kimberly Hanlon will cover the most important things you need to know about contracts in plain-English.
Online event, April 30, 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Register today
Work of art: Funding
Learn how to think creatively about diversifying your funding streams by exploring different models for generating value, resources, and revenue. This workshop is a part of the 12-part Work of Art: Business Skills for Artists from Elevate Hennepin advisor Springboard for the Arts.
Online event, April 30, 6 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Register today
City of Minneapolis small business support
Meet with a representative from City of Minneapolis Small Business Team to learn about their resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs. No appointment necessary.
In-person event, May 2 and May 16, 10:30 a.m. 12:30 p.m.
East Lake Library
Learn more
MN Promise act: Virtual information session
The state funded PROMISE Act program is focused on distributing $72 million in grants and $22 million in loans to support the growth and repositioning of small Minnesota businesses located in specific neighborhoods and corridors in North Minneapolis, South Minneapolis, and Saint Paul. Join Elevate Hennepin advisor Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) to learn how to tap into PROMISE Act funding.
Online event, May 9, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Register today
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