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The Richfield Business Bulletin

February 2026

We know that recent federal immigration actions have created stress and uncertainty for local businesses, employees, and customers in our community. Our city cares about our business community and the people who make it strong.

This newsletter shares resources and information that may be helpful during this time. We encourage everyone to take care of one another, support our local businesses, and stay connected as a community.

Access no cost legal advice and other business support

Elevate Hennepin legal and HR advisors are available to answer questions, assist with compliance, and help business owners plan in the face of uncertainty. Other advisors can provide thought partnership and guidance to manage disruptions, communicate with staff and customers, develop new operational strategies, and continue moving forward.

Emergency relief grants for Latino-owned businesses

The Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC) has created an Emergency Relief Fund grant program to support Latino-owned businesses struggling due to current Federal immigration activity. Currently, the program is focused on businesses on the East Side of Saint Paul. However, other impacted Latino-owned businesses are strongly encouraged to apply, as LEDC is actively working to launch additional statewide grant opportunities. Your application will help them better understand needs across Minnesota.

How You Can Help

February is Shop Local Month

Governor Tim Walz has proclaimed February as Shop Local Month in Minnesota, as part of “Shop Local, Stand Together,” a campaign encouraging Minnesotans to support small, locally owned businesses. 

“The federal presence in Minnesota has hit local businesses where it hurts most,” said Governor Walz. “Minnesotans have a long tradition of supporting one another in peaceful, actionable ways. Choosing to shop local, grab takeout, or visit a neighborhood store is one way we can stand with our neighbors and continue to show the nation what it means to respond with care and decency.”

Host a "Share the Love" drop-off

Richfield businesses are invited to collect shelf-stable food and personal care items at your home or Richfield-based business throughout the month of February! Register to be included on our online ‘Share the Love’ Community Food Drive map.

Donations are distributed to the community through VEAP, located in Bloomington. VEAP provides support through their traditional food pantry and home delivery at this time. 

If you'd like to host a Share the Love drop-off site at your business, call 612-861-9385 or email recreation@richfieldmn.gov.

Support your neighbors

The Emergency Community Support Fund was created by the Richfield Leadership Network in partnership with the Richfield Community Safety Network - a collection of community members with a desire to help meet the needs of those who live, work, learn, play, and worship in Richfield.  The Emergency Community Support Fund is accepting donations to assist with essential household items, utility bills, transportation, rent, and other required services.

Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund  The Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund has been created by a collective of local food advocates and industry professionals to support Minnesota's restaurant community.  The fund is being administered through the Minneapolis Foundation and donations are tax-deductible. Restaurants throughout Minnesota affected by the current situation may apply for a grant to help cover hardships impacting ongoing restaurant operations. Applications will be opening soon.

Share your story

The City is seeking information to better understand how recent Federal immigration enforcement activity may be affecting local businesses. If you would like to share information with us, please contact Jan Youngquist, Richfield's Economic Development Manager, at (612) 861-9771 or jyoungquist@richfieldmn.gov.

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