Minnesota’s sixth annual Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) Conference was held March 20-21 at the Iron Trail Motors Event Center in Virginia. The gathering brought together nearly 100 business leaders, economic development professionals, decision-makers and community advocates from across the state, many of whom were visiting the Iron Range for the first time. The event focused on strengthening connections and support systems for entrepreneurial success.

The conference was led by the University of Minnesota Extension’s Community Development Department, in collaboration with Minnesota’s Small Business Development Centers, Rethos, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, IgniteMN, the Virginia Economic Development Authority and several other organizations.

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR) Commissioner Ida Rukavina was the keynote speaker. She opened the event by sharing the Range of Possibilities video, setting the stage for discussions on economic resilience in northeastern Minnesota. Drawing on her experience in economic and community development, particularly in rural and mining communities, Rukavina highlighted the region’s strengths and opportunities.

During her address, she shared business and community success stories that reflect the economic potential of the Iron Range. These included Sammy’s Pizza and AMGS in Hibbing, Lamppa Manufacturing in Tower, Heliene in Mountain Iron and L&M Fleet Supply in Grand Rapids. She also discussed the role of trails, outdoor recreation, parks and education in supporting local business growth.

Attendees also participated in breakout sessions at local businesses and institutions, including Northeast Technical Services, Maco Theater, Canelake’s Candies, Frandsen Bank, 5 & Go, Virginia Public Library and Cultures, Humanities and Arts on the Iron Range (CHAIR). These sessions provided direct learning experiences and insight into the community’s entrepreneurial landscape.

The CEC Conference served as a valuable platform for sharing best practices, fostering discussions and building networks to support entrepreneurial growth in Minnesota. Bringing stakeholders together, the Iron Range event further reinforced the region's role in economic development and business innovation.

Aurora residents have the opportunity to make exterior improvements to their homes and properties through a matching grant program offered by the Aurora Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA). Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR) supported the project with a $10,250 Housing grant to the Aurora HRA. Total project investment is estimated at $138,312.

The Neighborhood Revitalization Mini Grant Program was formed three years ago to help improve and upgrade the older housing stock in disrepair and to help maintain existing affordable housing. The Mini Grant Program offers residents financial assistance to make small scale improvements using local contractors. Improvements have included new windows, doors, roofs, siding, painting, paved walkways and other significant and noticeable upgrades.

In 2024, the IRRR grant helped fund the program’s fourth year and expand the program from 10 projects per year to 20. Grants were awarded in amounts up to $1,000, and the grantees ranged in ages from employed individuals to retirees and both single and family homeowners.

Mary Mulari is the Aurora HRA chair. She explained that the improvements have added to property values and improved the overall aesthetics throughout the residential areas. The HRA will offer the program again in 2025.

Email Shawn Herhusky or call him at 218-735-3067 for more information about Housing grants.

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Commissioner Ida Rukavina addressed the Mineland Vision Partnership (MVP) meeting on March 19 in Chisholm. Her presentation focused on the Forest Bio-Economy Trade and Study Mission she attended last summer in Helsinki, Finland. She shared insights on Finland’s forestry industry, bio-based products and advancements in wood construction, including mass timber and cross-laminated timber applications.

Rukavina also discussed key connections made with organizations and firms that could be potential partners for development in Minnesota. By highlighting the region’s natural resources and forestry sector, she emphasized the opportunities available for economic growth in northeastern Minnesota.

According to its website, MVP is a collaborative group of mining, business, government, professional and community interests representing all parts of the Iron Range. MVP invests in our diverse community by developing opportunities for dynamic minescapes, preserving lands to sustain current and future mining and exploring cutting edge reclamation practices that enhances the natural environment of the area.

Learn more about MVP.

Four new pickleball courts were constructed in the Greenwood Township Recreation Area, complementing the existing tennis court, basketball court, horse shoe pits, bocce courts, playground and picnic pavilion. Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation supported the project with a $15,000 Culture & Tourism grant. Total project investment was $126,157.

“The new pickleball courts will enhance the quality of life for area residents and provide an additional amenity for visitors. Pickleball continues to be one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and it is enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities,” said Paul Thompson, Greenwood Community Recreation Board president. “The courts are a great addition to our community, and the project brought us together working towards a common goal.”

Greenwood Township Recreation Area draws residents from the surrounding communities of Cook, Tower, Soudan and other nearby townships, as well as tourists visiting Lake Vermilion.

Email Danae Beaudette or call her at 218-735-3022 for Culture & Tourism grant information.

A new 40-foot timber and steel bridge was constructed on the Yukon Trail, replacing one that was aging and beyond repair. New way-finding and safety signage was refurbished along the trail, and a new sign stake pounder was purchased to make installation easier. Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation (IRRR) supported the project with a $9,500 Regional Trails grant to Voyageur Snowmobile Club.

The Yukon Trail is about 44 miles and part of a larger 400-mile trail system in Lake County. The Yukon directly connects to the Two Harbors Corridor and the North Shore and Tomahawk trails, which lead to Ely.

“IRRR’s financial support for our trail system is crucial for our volunteer organization,” said Gordy Anderson, club administrator. “Our goal was to improve the safety of all riders, so that snowmobiling along the Yukon Trail and surrounding trails is a positive experience for our local residents and those visiting our community.”

Email Danae Beaudette or call her at 218-735-3022 for Regional Trails grant information.