 Happy National Small Business Week! As we celebrate our local businesses all across Hennepin County, we’re seeing the fruits of the ongoing partnership between local government and the business community.
This work has been essential long before Elevate Hennepin launched, and continues to evolve.
Read why Hennepin County sees this partnership as an essential bridge between local government and business.
 The fall session of CEO Next is coming up fast. Eligible business owners and leaders should apply today!
CEO Next provides practical tools and techniques for CEOs and is designed specifically for growing regional second-stage businesses.
The eight-month program offers three lines of service:
- CEO round table sessions: Monthly half-day facilitated discussions to ignite peer discussion and mutual support
- CEO Speaker forum: Monthly speakers presenting topical information to help CEOs grow and expand
- System for Integrated Growth: 30 hours of intensive, advanced research to expand growth and opportunity for each participating CEO
 Don't miss the ongoing 2025 U.S. Small Business Association's National Small Business Week.
Highlights include the National Small Business Person of the year, a two-day summit where small business owners can learn, connect, and explore business support resources.
Take advantage of learning opportunities and explore SBA resources all this week.
An Elevate Hennepin advisee said working with Kathy Hanson at Backpocket Strategy helped her successfully sign a new contract and increase revenue.
 Connect with Backpocket Strategy or any one of our business strategy consultants today in the Elevate Hennepin resource directory!
In today’s competitive business landscape, it’s not just about what you offer—it’s about how you position yourself and communicate your value with confidence.
This dynamic class from Elevate Hennepin cohort partner Certified Access will equip business owners with the tools to develop a powerful capability statement that opens doors and makes decision-makers take notice—both in person and virtually.
Online event, May 29, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
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Demystifying the FAR in federal contracting
If you’re embarking on the federal contracting journey, you’ll need to understand the requirements of the FAR (Federal Acquisition Regulation). Join this session to learn about Fixed-Price Contracts, Cost Principles, Provisions and Contract Clauses to help you successfully navigate this landscape.
Online event, May 13, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. Register today
When growing from start-up to 20+ employees
You’ve done all the work to get your business up and running, and you are starting to see the momentum build. How do you know when it’s time to expand?
Online event, May 13, 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. Register today
DEED monthly small business call
The Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) Office of Small Business & Innovation is offering a monthly meeting for small business owners. The meeting is an opportunity for small business owners to have a conversation with business experts and their peers.
Online event, May 13, 2 p.m. - 3 p.m. Register today
Fundamentals of federal contracting
Learn the steps needed to begin your journey into federal contracting. Experts will explore appropriate registrations, the government contracting marketplace, finding opportunities, competition thresholds and how they are affected by certifications, as well as applicable rules and regulations.
Online event, May 20, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. Register today
By investing in business owners, Hennepin County is building a foundation to create a more inclusive and thriving economy that strengthens communities.
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