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The Richfield Business Bulletin
December 2025
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It's hard to believe, but the end of 2025 is fast approaching. This issue focuses on information and resources to help you leap into 2026.
Are you ready for Minnesota Paid Leave?
Minnesota Paid Leave launches Jan. 1, 2026. Workers will be able to apply through the state to take 12 weeks of paid leave to deal with medical conditions, bond with a new baby, or take care of a loved one.
If you are an employer and haven’t already done so, take time now to set up your required accounts and confirm internal processes for leave requests and payroll planning.
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$20,000 Grants Now Available Through Amex Shop Small Grants Program
Main Street America and American Express are teaming up to help small businesses grow, innovate, and support their local communities.
Now through Friday, January 16, 2026, eligible small business owners across the U.S. can apply for $20,000 grants through the newly launched Amex Shop Small Grants Program.
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Elevate Hennepin small business loan funds available
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As part of the Elevate Hennepin small business capital strategy, financing opportunities are available for small businesses. Hennepin County has committed $1.1 million to create more equitable access to capital for small businesses through the Elevate Hennepin Small Business Loans program. The financing opportunity is available through a nonprofit community-based lender, NextStage.
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Make learning part of your New Year's resolutions
Here are some options to get you started:
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How small businesses can build visibility & trust online
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Social media is one of the most powerful ways small businesses can increase visibility, build trust, and connect with the people they serve — but getting started (or staying consistent) can feel overwhelming. |
If you’ve ever wondered which platforms to focus on, what to post, or how to make social media feel manageable instead of stressful, this workshop is for you.
January 14, 2026
12 pm
Virtual workshop presented by SCORE
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Get Started with Elevate Hennepin
This 90-minute no-cost, virtual workshop is designed for anyone looking to jumpstart their idea for a business.
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January 21, 2026
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
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Online Course: Simple Steps for Starting Your Business
If you're thinking about starting a business, this online course will help you reach a “go or no-go” decision for your start-up. You'll test and validate your business idea and collect the information you need to determine if your concept will be profitable.
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This course is composed of five micro-learning modules that take roughly 15 minutes to complete. Each module contains exercises and activities you can do offline to complete your learning.
Presented by SCORE.
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 Ramp closures:
-The ramp from Portland Avenue to westbound 494 is closed through Spring 2026.
-The ramp from westbound 494 to 12th Ave and the ramp from Nicollet Ave to eastbound 494 are permanently closed.
Coming in 2026:
-The Nicollet Ave and 12th Ave bridges over 494 are scheduled to be replaced.
-The following ramps will close permanently:
- Eastbound I-494 to Nicollet Ave
- Westbound I-494 to/from Nicollet Ave
- 12th Ave to eastbound I-494
I-494 construction is a Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) project. Construction activities and the schedule are subject to change, so the best way to stay in the loop is to refer to the MnDOT project page and sign up for project email updates.
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 As the year comes to a close, we want to extend our sincere thanks to the local businesses that make Richfield such a great place to live, work, and shop. Your dedication and hard work strengthen our community every day.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season and we look forward to working with you in 2026!
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For more information
Contact Jan Youngquist, Richfield's Economic Development Manager if you have questions or want more information.
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