Business Incubators
Creating spaces for small businesses to grow and develop.
With community partners in our targeted neighborhoods, NDC restores properties to create dynamic commercial spaces in which small businesses can start and grow.
Real Estate Services
Business Incubators
MERCADO CENTRAL
Inspired by the vision of a group of aspiring business owners from Mexico and Central America, the Mercado Central project opened in 1999 and dramatically transformed the intersection of Bloomington and Lake into a vibrant public market. This Business Incubator is home to more than 35 small businesses and serves as a cultural and economic hub.
Address: 1515 East Lake St., Minneapolis
Community partners: Project for Pride in Living (PPL) and Cooperativa Mercado Central
CONTACT MANAGEMENT
FROGTOWN ENTREPRENEUR CENTER
In 1996, NDC acquired and rehabilitated two vacant buildings at the northwest corner of University and Dale—converting them into an affordable, supportive environment for emerging entrepreneurs. The buildings have helped stabilize this important intersection in St. Paul and positioned it for future growth.
Address: 625 University Avenue and 501 North Dale St., St. Paul
Community partners:
CONTACT MANAGEMENT
FROGTOWN SQUARE
NDC partnered with four local nonprofits to transform a notorious, adult-themed intersection into an art deco, transit-oriented commercial and residential center. The project, completed in 2011, has created business opportunities, nearly 40 jobs, and housing opportunities for long-time residents of Frogtown, while also benefitting from its proximity to the Dale Street station of the Green Line.
Address: 599 - 615 University Ave., St. Paul, MN
Community partners: Model Cities, Inc., Greater Frogtown CDC and Aurora/St. Anthony Neighborhood Development Corp.
CONTACT MANAGEMENT
MIDTOWN GLOBAL MARKET
Located at the site of an abandoned Sears warehouse and regional distribution center, the Midtown Global Market (MGM) is a thriving multi-ethnic, year-round public marketplace. The project, which opened in 2006, is now home to more than 40 small businesses, restaurants and retail stores from around the world. MGM has created more than 200 jobs and, as a regional cultural destination, attracts more than 1.5 million visitors each year.
Address: 920 E. Lake St., Minneapolis
Community partners: The Cultural Wellness Center
CONTACT MANAGEMENT
PLAZA VERDE
In 2003, NDC helped transform this abandoned 43,000 square foot building into a revitalized commercial destination for community-based businesses and nonprofit organizations—a dynamic blend of neighborhood and community assets.
Address: 1516 East Lake St., Minneapolis
Community partners: Latino Economic Development Center
CONTACT MANAGEMENT