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Celebrate Saint Paul Businesses Making a Difference

The Saint Paul Business Awards celebrate local businesses that go above and beyond to make a difference in our communities. From community involvement and innovation to exceptional service and investment, these businesses help make Saint Paul a great place to live, work, and grow.

Decade of Impact

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Saint Paul Business Awards. For a decade, the program has recognized businesses for the many ways they contribute to our neighborhoods and strengthen our community. This milestone is an opportunity to celebrate the businesses, entrepreneurs, and community members who have helped make the program part of Saint Paul’s business community.

Introducing the Small but Mighty Award

To mark this milestone, the Business Awards are also introducing a new Small but Mighty Award. This category recognizes the impact that small businesses can make in their communities, celebrating businesses that may be small in size but make a meaningful difference through their work, service, and community connections.

Know a business that deserves recognition? Nominate them for a Saint Paul Business Award!

City News and Updates

Interested in learning More About Downtown Plans?

Join City of Saint Paul staff and Gehl Studio, Inc. at an upcoming engagement event to learn more about the Downtown 2050 Plan! There are several opportunities to attend workshops to learn more and provide feedback on the draft plan and related policies. Visit the Downtown 2050 Plan webpage to track plan progress, learn more about the plan and related policies, and to sign up for upcoming Community Workshops.

Spotlight on the White Bear Avenue Commercial Corridor

This month we are happy to feature the White Bear Avenue Commercial Corridor. The Greater East Side Community Council manages the White Bear Avenue commercial corridor and is using the second round of funding for beautification, and events, and marketing. A major outcome of the 2025 funding is the new Bear Larp District | Gateway to the Greater East Side website. The website introduces the Bear + Larp District, “a new identity for the historic White Bear Avenue corridor, a place where Saint Paul’s Greater East Side roots meet its next era of growth.” The website features events, resources, development and leasing materials, and more. Corridor efforts have also included creating a mascot and holding numerous events. Learn more about the Bear Larp district in this MPR interview.

Have you opened a new business or know of a new business in Saint Paul?

Please let us know by emailing BusinessResources@ci.stpaul.mn.us.

Access Financial and Technical Support from the City of Saint Paul

The City of Saint Paul partners with business support organizations and groups throughout the Twin Cities. If you would like direct business support from our team, the first step is to submit an intake form. Get connected today to learn more about what programs and resources can help you reach your business goals!

DSI Call Center

From garbage to graffiti, The City of Saint Paul call center is here to help get code violations taken care of. Real, knowledgeable people are available on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to answer questions, log complaints, and get your problem one step closer to being solved. Give us a call at 651-266-8989.

Aldi Opens in Downtown St. Paul (Pioneer Press | September)

Lake Monster Brewing closes. Barrel Theory Beer Company to take its place. (Pioneer Press | September) 

Five months in, Aubergine is showing flashes of something extraordinary (Star Tribune | October)  

Resources for Businesses

PROMISE Act Funding Still Available for Small Businesses

The Minnesota PROMISE Act Grant helps eligible small businesses and nonprofits in Minneapolis and Saint Paul grow, recover, and build long-term stability through grant funding.

To date, more than 1,000 businesses have received support through the program, including more than 370 businesses and nonprofits in Saint Paul, representing over $6.2 million in grant funding.

Round 2 funding remains available, with approximately $60 million still open for eligible applicants.

Free application support is available through information sessions, one-on-one assistance, and technical assistance resources. We encourage eligible business owners to apply and take advantage of the support available throughout the process.

👉 Apply Now 
👉 View Info Sessions 
👉 Schedule 1:1 Virtual Support 
👉 Schedule 1:1 In-Person Support 
📞 Call: 651-379-8102 

October is Manufacturing Month

October is Manufacturing Month, a time to recognize the important contributions of local manufacturers and highlight opportunities to strengthen the sector’s workforce. Ramsey County is home to more than 650 manufacturing businesses employing more than 29,000 people, with average annual manufacturing wages of approximately $95,000. For small and growing manufacturers, Manufacturing Month provides an opportunity to showcase their businesses, introduce potential employees to careers in the industry, and help build a stronger pipeline of local talent.

Throughout October, Ramsey County is connecting businesses, workers and community members through manufacturing-focused activities and facility tours. These events provide an opportunity for prospective workers and students to learn more about local manufacturing careers while giving businesses a chance to raise awareness of their industry and the skills they need. Saint Paul businesses interested in workforce development, talent recruitment or connecting with local business resources can learn more through Ramsey County’s Workforce and Business Development programs.

Need Help Preparing for Minnesota Paid Leave?

Minnesota’s Paid Leave program brings new requirements for employers, and LegalCORPS is offering free legal assistance to help small businesses understand and prepare for these requirements. Funded by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), LegalCORPS provides free online educational workshops as well as opportunities to meet one-on-one with an attorney for practical guidance on Paid Leave compliance and workplace preparation. To get connected, businesses can complete a general intake form here or contact LegalCORPS attorney Mamoun Alassouli at malassouli@legalcorps.org.

Register for Food. Ag. Ideas 2026

Food. Ag. Ideas (FAI) 2026, powered by Naturally Minnesota, brings together entrepreneurs, food and agriculture businesses, industry leaders, investors and innovators to explore new ideas and opportunities across Minnesota’s food system. Taking place October 26–27, the event features panels, networking, interactive experiences and an optional behind-the-scenes Minnesota State Fair tour. This year’s theme, “The Minnesota Model: Building a Living Economy from the Ground Up,” will explore how Minnesota’s cooperative business traditions, agricultural resources and connected food-system infrastructure can create opportunities for innovation, resilience and business growth. For small businesses in food, agriculture, health and related industries, FAI offers an opportunity to learn from industry leaders, build connections and discover potential partners and new markets.

Small Business Essentials Course at WomenVenture

WomenVenture’s Small Business Essentials program offers entrepreneurs practical training and tools to build stronger, more sustainable businesses. The five-session program, running November 16 to December 14, 2026, covers core topics for small-business owners and provides opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and connect with other entrepreneurs. The program is designed to help business owners strengthen their knowledge and confidence as they launch, manage and grow their businesses.

Funding Available Through BizRecycling Grants

Businesses in Ramsey County may be eligible for grant funding and free technical assistance through BizRecycling, a program of Ramsey/Washington Recycling & Energy. Grants can help cover the cost of recycling and organics collection equipment, waste reduction initiatives, reusable service ware, facility improvements, employee education, and other sustainability projects that reduce waste and improve operations. Funding opportunities range from Bin-Only Grants of up to $2,500 for small businesses to Recycling Grants of up to $10,000 and Waste Reduction & Innovation or Pollution Prevention Grants of up to $50,000 for larger projects. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and businesses receive personalized guidance from a BizRecycling expert throughout the application process.

Ascend Twin Cities Helps Entrepreneurs Scale and Build Supplier Readiness

Ascend Twin Cities is a cohort-based management education program designed to help entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses, prepare for larger contracting opportunities and build relationships with corporate buyers. Delivered by Meda, the Holmes Center for Entrepreneurship at the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management, the program combines in-person management education with workshops on procurement and supplier readiness, networking with fellow entrepreneurs and corporate partners, and pitch coaching to help businesses effectively communicate their capabilities.

The 2027 program will run from January through May, culminating in an Ascend Showcase in June featuring business pitch presentations and one-on-one matchmaking meetings with leading Minnesota corporations. Participating entrepreneurs may also have opportunities to connect with major companies and organizations such as U.S. Bank, Target, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Knutson Construction, Ryan Companies, the University of Minnesota and Best Buy.

Access Federal Tax Incentives for Commercial Solar Projects!

Small businesses interested in reducing energy costs and transitioning to renewable energy can explore solar resources and support from Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light (MNIPL). MNIPL helps businesses navigate solar options, financing and available incentives, including programs designed to make rooftop solar more accessible when upfront costs are a barrier. In the Twin Cities, MNIPL’s Lake Street Solar program offers eligible small businesses and nonprofits the opportunity to install rooftop solar with no upfront cost and receive electricity at a discounted rate compared with standard Xcel Energy rates. Businesses interested in exploring whether solar could be a good fit for their property can learn more via this Solar Info Webinar or by contacting Buff Grace at buff@mnipl.org or 651-323-3167.

Fresh Ideas to Move Your Business Forward

The SCORE Minnesota Client Resource Guide is your all-in-one resource to help you navigate every stage of your small business journey. Designed with entrepreneurs and small business owners in mind, this interactive resource connects you to proven tools, templates, and trusted sources — all in one easy-to-access PDF. The best part is that most resources anyone can use, regardless of location.

Five Tips to Prepare your Commercial HVAC System for Winter from CEE

1. Before it gets too cold, test it out!
2. Make sure your equipment air filters are clean
3. Program your thermostats to setback 5–10 degrees during unoccupied times
4. Check your outside air intake level
5. Consider whether it’s time for an HVAC upgrade

Interested in a free assessment?

CEE’s HVAC experts are here to help Xcel Energy commercial customers in St. Paul find energy-saving solutions tailored to their building and budget. We provide free, no obligation assessments, free ecobee smart thermostats, and rebates covering up to 60% of project costs.

Get FREE Expert Business Advice!

Whether you are just developing your business idea, or have been in business for years, SCORE mentors are here to help you. No question is too big or too small. Meet with a mentor via email, video, or phone. SCORE mentoring is free and confidential.

Upcoming events

Local Visibility For Your Business: How to Be Found, Understood, & Chosen Online

Tuesday, October 13
11am – 12:30pm
Virtual

Learn practical ways to improve local SEO, online profiles, reviews, and visibility across Google, maps, directories, and AI search in this workshop from SCORE. Learn more and register here!

Minnesota Small Business Call

Tuesday, October 13
2 – 3pm
Virtual

The Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED), Office of Small Business & Innovation, hosts a monthly meeting for small business owners. The meeting, which is the 2nd Tuesday of every month from 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., is an opportunity for small business owners to have a conversation with business experts and their peers. Employee ownership can offer small business owners a powerful path for succession while preserving jobs, strengthening communities and creating wealth for employees. Join DEED’s October Small Business Call on October13 for a panel discussion exploring employee ownership options, the benefits and challenges of transitioning a business, and resources available to help owners plan for the future. Sign up for reminders and access the call.

Paid Leave Workshop

Wednesday, October 14
9 – 11am
Hybrid – Virtual & LEDC Office

This workshop from LEDC will provide information about Minnesota Paid Leave and help business owners, employers, and employees better understand the program and its requirements. Learn more and register here!

Simple Steps for Starting Your Business — Marketing Plan

Wednesday, October 14
12 – 1:30pm
Virtual

This workshop from SCORE introduces key marketing communication tools to help you reach more customers. You’ll learn to outline your strategy, test your message, choose effective sales channels, and turn your strategy into a practical marketing plan. Learn more and register here!

Visibilidad para Crecer: Leadership and Opportunities for Latina Entrepreneurs

Tuesday, October 15
10am – 12pm
LEDC Office

As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, LEDC and Yosmary Mejías invite Latina business owners to an engaging experience focused on learning, connection, and celebration. Through an interactive workshop, participants will strengthen their leadership confidence, learn how to communicate the value of their businesses, explore practical strategies to navigate economic challenges, and build meaningful connections that can open new opportunities throughout Minnesota. The workshop will include a 60-minute interactive session, a participant workbook, practical exercises and guided networking, so attendees can leave with concrete tools and a 30-day action plan they can apply immediately to their businesses. Learn more and register here!

Land Access: Are You Ready?

Saturday, October 17
10am – 4pm
Plaza del Sol, St. Paul

This collaboration between LEDC and the Land Stewardship project is to help new and emerging farmers access land. This workshop will be hands-on and presented entirely in Spanish. Learn more and register here!

Understanding Contracts with Fredrikson & Byron

Tuesday, October 20
11:30am – 1pm
Virtual

For your business, you may need to sign a contract for services or have someone sign your contract for services. Before signing a contract or having someone sign your contract, be sure to have a clear understanding of each party’s rights, responsibilities, and obligations. Learn more and register here!

Path to Funding: WomenVenture Lending Program Explained

Tuesday, October 20
1 – 2pm
Virtual

Curious about financing your business? This free, supportive session helps entrepreneurs better understand lending options, loan readiness, and the WomenVenture lending process. Participants can ask questions in a welcoming environment and gain confidence in taking the next step toward funding their goals. Learn more and register here!

Simple Steps For Starting Your Business — Funding Options

Wednesday, October 21
12 – 1:30pm
Virtual

This workshop from SCORE explores how to fund your small business, covering funding sources, the six C’s of credit, banking relationships, the borrowing process, and financial preparation. You’ll also learn how bankers evaluate business plans and loan applications. Learn more and register here!

Small Business Bites: Workforce Wins: How Inclusive Hiring Solves Real Business Challenges

Wednesday, October 21
11 – 12pm
Virtual

This Small Biz Bites session features The Redemption Project and MSS as they share how small businesses can tap into a reliable, motivated, and often overlooked talent pool. You’ll learn how inclusive hiring practices can help address today’s workforce challenges including long-term retention, filling hard-to-staff roles, and strengthening your teams. Presenters will highlight the resources available to employers, real success stories, and simple ways to get started without adding complexity to your hiring process. Whether you’re actively hiring or looking to build a stronger, more resilient team, you’ll leave with straightforward, practical strategies you can start using today. Learn more and register here!

How to Start a Business

Thursday, October 22
4 – 6pm
LEDC Office

This workshop is designed for individuals interested in starting a business. Participants will learn the essential steps to launch a business, evaluate business readiness, and connect with resources available through LEDC to support their entrepreneurial journey. Learn more and register here!

Simple Steps For Starting Your Business — Financial Matters

Wednesday, October 28
12 – 1:30pm
Virtual

The fourth workshop from SCORE uses hands-on exercises to explore financial concepts— sales, pricing, risks, start-up costs, operating expenses, and benchmarks. You'll learn to use our model to forecast revenue and build strong pro-forma financial projections. Learn more and register here!

Unlocking Accessibility: How ERAF Can Transform Your Business

Wednesday, October 28
2 – 3pm
Virtual

Discover how the Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF) can help your business thrive while fostering a more accessible workplace. Small to mid-sized businesses in Minnesota can receive reimbursements of up to $30,000 for providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. It’s straightforward, it’s impactful, and it’s your gateway to connecting with outstanding talent. Learn more and register here!

Plaza del Sol Grand Opening

Thursday, October 29
12 – 3pm
Plaza del Sol, 990 Payne Ave, St. Paul

You're invited to the grand opening of LEDC's Plaza del Sol, a new Food Hall, Commissary Kitchen and Event Center on St. Paul’s East Side. Experience the revitalized destination and connect with the entrepreneurs, partners and community members who helped bring it to life. RSVP by October 27. Plaza del Sol is a transformative LEDC initiative designed to help entrepreneurs launch and grow while creating a welcoming place for food, celebrations and community connection. RSVP by October 27.

How to Buy a Commercial Building for Your Business

Friday, October 30
11am – 1pm
LEDC Office

Are you thinking about buying a commercial property for your business? Learn how to prepare for purchasing commercial real estate and explore available financing options. This workshop is ideal for entrepreneurs and small business owners who are considering purchasing their first commercial property. Learn more and register here!

Season of Small Business Resource Fair

Wednesday, November 4
3 – 6pm
University Enterprise Laboratories

Celebrate Minnesota’s entrepreneurs during the annual Season of Small Business, which we're kicking off with DEED's Season of Small Business Resource Fair! Connect with our partner organizations offering resources, guidance and support to help small businesses start, grow and succeed. Attendees can meet local and statewide service providers, explore available programs and make valuable connections, all in one place. No registration is required.

Startup Toolkit: Registration, Permits, and Business Banking

Thursday, November 5
6 – 8pm
WomenVenture Office

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to navigate it alone. This workshop helps aspiring entrepreneurs understand essential startup requirements, from registration and permits to business banking, so they can launch with greater clarity and confidence. Learn more and register here!

The Summit & Expo

Friday, November 6
4 – 6pm @ Park Square Theater
6 – 8pm @ Meritage Underground

Saturday, November 7
8am – 4pm
Minneapolis Convention Center

Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce and Strengthen the Strong present The Summit & Expo to convene entrepreneurs, business leaders, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and community partners for a day of learning, connection, and collaboration. Through workshops, conversations, networking, and an engaging Expo, attendees will explore practical strategies for launching, growing, and scaling their businesses, strengthening financial knowledge, and building stronger business relationships. Learn more and register!

Hill Capital Summit

Thursday, November 12
8:30 – 5pm
CHS Field

The Summit presented by Capital Hill Corporation is an exclusive, highly interactive event focused on making meaningful connections between entrepreneurs and our ambassadors. This exclusive event will include our shareholders, portfolio companies, Ambassadors and entrepreneurs of all types. See what it looks like in action from past events. Please note that many of the event sponsors are offering their constituents discount codes for tickets. There is a promo code field at the top of the registration page. If you are interested in being a partner on this event, please reach out to Patrick Donohue, at Patrick (at) HillCapitalCorp.com. Learn more and get tickets here!

Path to Funding: WomenVenture Lending Program Explained

Tuesday, November 17
1 – 2pm
Virtual

Curious about financing your business? This free, supportive session helps entrepreneurs better understand lending options, loan readiness, and the WomenVenture lending process. Participants can ask questions in a welcoming environment and gain confidence in taking the next step toward funding their goals. Learn more and register here!

WomenVenture Overview

Wednesday, November 18
6 – 7pm
Virtual

Interested in learning more about WomenVenture? This free introduction provides an opportunity to learn about the organization's programs, services, and resources designed to help entrepreneurs thrive. Participants can explore available support and discover the next steps that best fit their business journey. Learn more and register here!

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