Business Support

The Initiative Foundation offers support to new and developing businesses in the 14 counties and two Native nations it serves in Central Minnesota. Available support includes financial literacy training, business planning and guidance, marketing support, and access to networking opportunities. Programming and support are always evolving to ensure the long-term sustainability of small businesses across the region.

Helping Local Businesses

Enterprise Academy

Enterprise Academy is the single-largest early-stage entrepreneur training program in Central Minnesota. At the heart of the program is a 12-week business course that provides training and individualized advising to help underserved entrepreneurs start and grow small businesses. The expertly taught classes lead students through basic business principles and helps them start—and ultimately finish—a business plan. Graduates receive ongoing technical support and can also apply for market-rate microloans through the Initiative Foundation.

Business Support

Most business owners will need support at some point in the journey. The Foundation works with expert contractors to provide technical assistance, which is one-on-one mentoring provided by business professionals. Contractors work with business owners on a variety of topics, including planning and operations; financial planning and compliance; business structures and contracts; leasing and buying land and buildings; marketing and sales; and legal compliance. Foundation staff members also are available to discuss business ideas with entrepreneurs.

Contact Us

Reach out to a member of our team for business support. We are here to help!

Business Training Opportunities

Business Plan Starter

Do you have a business idea but aren’t sure how to start? Join business consultant Jeff Wig for an interactive two-hour seminar to help you…

Subject
Business
Location
St. Cloud
Start Date
April 16, 2024

Website Design

Most people think the work of building a website is all about the technology. The hard part is done after picking a developer and a…

Subject
Business
Location
St. Cloud
Start Date
April 20, 2024

Social Enterprise for Businesses and Nonprofits

Do you want to make a meaningful difference in the community with your business or nonprofit? Join us to learn how you can add a social mission to your…

Subject
Business
Location
St. Cloud
Start Date
May 1, 2024