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The Richfield Business Bulletin

February 2026--Special Issue

We know that this has been a challenging time for the Richfield business community and want to let you know about some current and upcoming resources that may help provide support. 

Applications Now Open

Small businesses in Minnesota that have recently experienced operational disruptions may now apply for financial support through the Economic Response Fund.

The Minneapolis Foundation has launched the Economic Response Fund to provide short-term stabilization grants to help businesses address urgent needs caused by reduced revenue, workforce disruptions, temporary closures, or safety and security concerns. 

Grants will help small businesses cover essential expenses such as payroll, rent, inventory, and operational costs to manage through these challenging times. 

Eligible businesses may receive grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000. Funding will support businesses in the Twin Cities and statewide, with an emphasis on communities experiencing the most significant disruptions.  

Businesses with up to 40 employees may apply. Funding is available for businesses that are currently operating as well as those that are temporarily or permanently closed.

Seeded by contributions from Minnesota companies and individuals, the Economic Response Fund will distribute $4 million in the coming weeks. Funding decisions will be made by seven nonprofit organizations with deep experience providing small business support.

Grants will be made on a rolling basis until all available funds are distributed.

Applications are being accepted online through the Minneapolis Foundation's website. 

Future Grants for Businesses--Coming Soon

Funds for restaurants 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. In the meantime, click the button below to learn more on how to donate or apply.

Small business funds The Mainstreet Alliance is launching the Open for Tomorrow Small Business Fund to provide support to protect workers, preserve jobs, and sustain essential neighborhood services. Phase 1 (February 2026): Grassroots fundraising. Phase 2 (March 2026): Applications open and submissions reviewed on a rolling basis with priority given to worker and community impact. Phase 3 (March 2026): Disbursement of stabilization funds to support job retention, worker continuity, and essential neighborhood services.

Please watch your inbox for future Business Bulletin newsletters--we will let you know once these programs begin accepting applications.

Share how your business been impacted by immigration enforcement actions

The Lake Street Council, a nonprofit organization, has launched a metro-wide independent survey to gather data, perspectives, and stories to help stakeholders understand these impacts and advocate for solutions.  If you are a business owner or nonprofit leader, please fill out this short survey to share how federal actions have impacted your finances and operations since the beginning of December 2025. No personal information is required. The information you share will help us understand the needs of the business community and evaluate appropriate resources.

If your business has sustained financial losses, these steps may be valuable

• Document the financial impacts. For example, keep track of: 
• Days your businesses was closed, or had reduced hours.
• Sales records, with comparisons to prior years as possible.
• Inventory losses, e.g. perishables.
• Call your insurance company to check your coverage for business interruption. Not all policies will include business interruption coverage, and policies vary for eligible situations.  
• Contact the Minnesota Department of Commerce if you have questions about your policy. You can email them or call 651-539-1600.  
• Reach out to your lenders, suppliers, and, if you rent your space, the property owner for your location. You may be able to negotiate temporary changes to your terms of payment.  
• If you expect to be late sending sales taxes, reach out to the Department of Revenue. While taxes themselves cannot be waived, you may be able to adjust your filing schedule or request a late fee abatement. 

The City of Richfield has compiled information to help you understand your rights and responsibilities and find resources for legal issues, housing, food, health care, and more.

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