Entrepreneur Resources

Frogtown Crossroads

We know these are difficult times for small business owners, and we are with our community. You are not alone in this. We encourage you to explore the links to resources below to find support for your current needs, and to continue sharing these opportunities with others.

For additional support or conversation, please reach out to our teams. We’re here to connect with you.

NDC Resource Library

See the links below for more information from NDC, our various partner organizations, and other local organizations who are making a difference.

Resource List

Financial Stability Support

The Minneapolis Foundation Economic Response Grants

We’re proud to support small businesses through the Economic Response Fund, administered by the Minneapolis Foundation. This fund is now closed for applications. 

Learn more: https://www.minneapolisfoundation.org/stories/community-issues/small-businesses-may-now-apply-for-economic-response-grants/  

Latino and Immigrant Business Emergency Relief Fund
The LEDC Emergency Relief Fund is built to provide grants to businesses on St. Paul’s East Side who are impacted by increased ICE activity. 
https://www.ledcmn.org/news/business-emergency-relief-fund/

Southeast Asian and Immigrant/Refugee Small Business Stabilization Grant Fund
The Hmong American Partnership (HAP) is offering Small Business Stabilization Grants of up to $5,000. Apply now, applications close March 8th.  
https://hmong.tfaforms.net/69

MN PROMISE Act Grant Program
Grants available to business owners in the Twin Cities. Workshops and information sessions help guide applicants through the process.
https://www.mnpromiseact.org/

Fortis Capital 2% Forgivable Loans
Fortis Capital is offering flexible, low-interest loans to business owners in specific St. Paul districts. Explore and share with those you know. 
https://fortiscapital.org/funding-opportunities/


Workplace Rights, Preparedness, and Employer Support

Employer Training with Vivid Joy HR
Training and guidance for employers navigating workforce challenges, HR compliance, and employee communication during times of uncertainty.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1mIrgJigywlg1HUo4GNBJpMu0hv43i956/view

MONARCA – ICE Workplace Trainings
Know Your Rights trainings focused on workplace preparedness, employee protections, and responding to ICE activity in business settings.
https://monarcamn.org/

MN CDFI Coalition – ICE Response Resources
Tools and guidance for businesses and community organizations responding to the impacts of immigration enforcement.
https://mncdficoalition.org/ice-response/

National Homelessness Law Center – ICE Response Resources
Practical resources for individuals, families, and communities impacted by ICE raids, including housing-related guidance and rights information.
https://housingnothandcuffs.org/iceraidresources/


Business, Legal, and Community Resource Hubs

Lake Street Council – Business Resource List
A centralized collection of resources for businesses impacted by federal immigration presence on Lake Street and surrounding areas.
https://www.visitlakestreet.com/business-blog/resources-for-federal-immigration-presence-on-lake-street#list

Minnesota Council of Nonprofits – Resources to Navigate Uncertainty
A curated set of tools and guidance to help organizations and communities respond to uncertainty, disruption, and changing conditions.
https://minnesotanonprofits.org/resources-to-navigate-uncertainty

United Way 211 Resource Helpline
Connects individuals and families to non-emergency services such as food, childcare, housing, utilities, and mental health support.
Dial 211 or visit:
https://211unitedway.org/

City of Minneapolis Resource Center
A hub to find connections to resources for shelter, food, legal support, and more. 
https://www.minneapolismn.gov/government/programs-initiatives/city-federal-response/virtual-resource-center/

City of St. Paul Immigration Resources
A resource center for those looking for support with all steps of the immigration process. 
https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/city-attorney/immigration-resources

Business Stabilization Resources from Women Venture
Resource hub with links and services from our partners at Women Venture. 
https://www.womenventure.org/business-stabilization-resources/


Technology and Unemployment Support

NeDA Financial Literacy Workshops
Workshops focused on financial planning, budgeting, and long-term stability for entrepreneurs and families.
https://nedahome.org/eventos/2021/taller-de-finanzas-personales-april-2021-wwm5w-8jyrj-85hzt-kjh2p-a3b78-6rz2x-mgler-mbbc2-hlces-96h3d

Minnesota Unemployment Insurance (DEED)
Information on unemployment benefits, eligibility, and how to apply through the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.
https://www.uimn.org/

NTEN Cybersecurity Resource Hub
Guidance and tools to help organizations protect their data, systems, and operations from cyber threats during times of disruption.
https://www.nten.org/learn/resource-hubs/cybersecurity


Food Access and Community Support

Second Harvest Heartland
Food assistance programs and resources for individuals, families, and community organizations across Minnesota.
https://www.2harvest.org/

DHH Church Food Drive
Community food drive supporting families in need with access to essential groceries.
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/despensas-food-drive

Joyce Uptown Food Shelf
Free groceries and food support for community members in need.
https://www.joyceuptownfoodshelf.org/

Uptown Greenwood Meals on Wheels (UGMTC)
Meal delivery and food support services for seniors and individuals facing food insecurity.
https://www.ugmtc.org/

Keystone Services Food Shelf
Access to groceries and food support for individuals and families.
https://keystoneservices.org/food-shelf/

Neighborhood House Food Markets
Community food markets and nutrition support programs serving families across Saint Paul.
https://neighborhoodhousemn.org/programs/food-support/food-markets/


Supporting Local Businesses and Communities

How Customers Can Support Restaurants
A guide on how diners across Minnesota can support restaurants and other service-based industries.
https://www.startribune.com/restaurants-are-reeling-heres-how-diners-can-help-right-now/601566861?utm_source=email

Stand With Minnesota
Local organization’s website indicating ways to support residents and business owners across the state.
https://www.standwithminnesota.com/

Main Street Alliance
Donation fund for emergency services for small businesses. 
https://mainstreetalliance.org/oftfund

Shop Local
Explore local small businesses across the Twin Cities and support your community.

Supporting Young People
Guidance on supporting young people during increased federal law enforcement activity across Minnesota.
https://www.stpaul.gov/news/supporting-young-people-during-increased-federal-law-enforcement-activity