Below are a number of external local and state resources available to help minority-owned businesses.

Small businesses owned by people of color invited to apply for grants from Comcast
Comcast announced it will award $1 million in grants to 100 Twin Cities small businesses owned by people of color. From Oct. 1 – 14, eligible businesses can apply for $10,000 grants from the Comcast RISE Investment Fund. 

African Development Center

Assists Minnesota's African community start and grow a businesses.  Sharia compliant funding is available. 

Central Certification (CERT) Program

Small business certification program recognized by Hennepin County, Ramsey County and the City of St. Paul for Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE), Women-Owned Business Enterprise (WBE) and Small Business Enterprise (SBE).

Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program

Provides loan capital for business that are owned and operated by minorities, low-income persons, women, veterans and/or persons with disabilities.

LegalCORPS

Provides free assistance in non-litigation business law matters to low-income owners of small businesses in Minnesota.

Latino Chamber of Commerce (MN)

Provides assistance to empower Latino businesses in Minnesota

Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce

The organization is dedicated to the economic growth, job creation and advocacy of its member business and the community.

Minneapolis Minority Business Development Center (MBDA)

Helps ethnic minority businesses create or retain jobs and build economically vibrant entrepreneurs and businesses.

Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD)

Provides small business assistance and loans for emerging entrepreneurs.

Metropolitan Economic Development Association (MEDA)

Offers business consulting, lending and market opportunities for minority entrepreneurs. 

National Association of Minority Contractors (NAMC)-Upper Midwest

Addresses the needs and concerns of minority contractors and services Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa.

North Central Minority Supplier Development Council

Provides business development services to corporate members and certified MBEs to enhance relationships and maximize business opportunities.

Neighborhood Development Center (NDC)

Provides flexible, risk-tolerant loans and Sharia-compliant financing and other financial tools for start-ups and existing businesses.

Diversity commitment

St. Louis Park is committed to advancing racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all. In 2010, the City Council adopted a resolution supporting women and BIPOC-owned and managed businesses. The city encourages community support of these businesses through the purchase of goods and professional services.  Learn more about the city's efforts to advance race equity.