 As we reflect on this past year, we are filled with gratitude for the entrepreneurs who inspire us with their resilience, creativity, and determination. Hennepin County is proud to offer Elevate Hennepin to the innovators and builders who make our economy so vibrant.
"I cannot say enough about Elevate Hennepin," said Commissioner Angela Conley. "I can't wait to see how many residents we serve next year."
Entrepreneurs from across the Hennepin County economy worked with Elevate Hennepin advisors, facilitators, and staff this year. Here's what a few said:
“It’s been a very, very valuable resource. One of the modules was all about pivoting… don’t be afraid to totally change it and pivot into something new.” - Abby Allen, founder of Gluestick, discussing how CEO Start continues to be a resource
"I feel like really having the support for us in that second phase of business is powerful. It feels like there are just as many unknowns. And all the stakes are higher.” - Anne Andrus, founder of Honey & Rye, discussing the value of HR Next
"I appreciate it so much. If I had to do this on my own, I can’t imagine how much money I would have had to spend with all these advisors." - Dr. Farhiyo Abdulle, co-founder of Rayaf Health, on working with several different advisors to launch her business
“It was kind of like re-learning alphabets from A to Z. I knew all the 26 letters, but everything was scrambled… CEO Now provided more clarity.” - Rajesh Selvaraj, cofounder of Pizza Karma, reflecting on lessons from CEO Now
As we step into the new year, we are excited to continue building opportunities for growth through Elevate Hennepin.
We’re excited to bring people together across our cohorts, CEO Start, CEO Now, CEO Next, HR Next, and Certified Access. These programs provide structured learning, peer support, and expert guidance to help you scale your vision. CEO Start Bootcamp and Get Started offer the same high-quality education in a format built for busy idea-stage and startup companies.
Elevate Hennepin advisors are just as eager to offer custom guidance to tackle challenges or embrace opportunities in your business starting in January.
And no matter what your business needs, Elevate Hennepin Business Navigators are ready to help you clarify your path and connect with the right resources.
Happy Holidays and we’ll see you in the New Year!
 Minnesota’s new Paid Leave program begins January 1, 2026. Employers across Hennepin County must prepare now by setting up accounts, notifying employees, and updating company processes.
Most businesses in Hennepin County must file an annual renewal with the Minnesota Secretary of State by December 31 to stay active. The process is simple, no cost for most entities, and can be completed online with 10 quick steps.
Thank you for being a part of Elevate Hennepin. We are always evolving our services, resources, and outreach to best serve the Hennepin County business community.
You can help us shape our newsletter in 2026 by taking our quick reader survey. It’s just five questions and will help us continue meeting your needs!
Be a voice for your business community! Hennepin County is looking for business owners to help propose, develop, and study innovative programs to provide employment opportunities for unemployed people by serving on the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Board. Apply by December 31!
 Elevate Hennepin is on the road with Thriving Thursdays. Join us on Thursday, December 18, in Dayton for our monthly pop-up series designed to bring expert business support directly into communities across Hennepin County.
Whether you're launching a new venture or growing an existing business, Thriving Thursdays offer a chance to connect face-to-face with professional consultants, Business Navigators, and city economic development staff all at no cost.
This month, meet with business strategy advisor Sigma Consulting, and legal advisor LegalCorps, as well as Elevate Hennepin Business Navigators who can help you find the right resource for you and your business. No-cost, RSVPs encouraged, walk-ins welcome.
Dayton Thriving Thursday
In-person event, December 18, 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Dayton City Hall
12260 South Diamond Lake Road, Dayton, Minnesota 55327
Strategies and tips for finding a retail space for your business
Choosing the right retail space is crucial for any business owner. Whether you are opening your first store or expanding, knowing how to find the right space for your retail business can set you on the path to success. Join Elevate Hennepin education partner SCORE to develop a plan and a budget.
Online event, December 19, 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Register today
Employment tax seminar
Attend this seminar to learn about your employment tax requirements with real world situations. Join the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance Program, Minnesota Department of Revenue, Minnesota Workers’ Compensation Insurers Association for this free seminar in Minnetonka.
In-person event, January 9, 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Ridgedale Library, 12601 Ridgedale Drive Minnetonka, Minnesota, 55305
Register today
Get Started with Elevate Hennepin
Join Get Started from Elevate Hennepin to record your business idea in the Business Model Canvas. This no-cost, 90-minute virtual interactive session is designed for anyone with a business idea looking for a jumpstart.
Online event, January 21, 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Register today
2026 WE Disrupt Conference
The WE* (Women Entrepreneurs) Disrupt Conference is an annual event focused on supporting Minnesota’s emerging entrepreneurs. Join for a day of insightful panel discussions, interactive workshops, and invaluable connections.
In-person event, February 4, 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
McNamara Alumni Center, 200 Southeast Oak Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55455
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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