December 2024

Employee Inequality Has Declined since the mid-2010s

Strategies for Business Succession Planning

MPCA Small Business Environmental Improvement Loans

The MPCA provides loans at zero-percent interest to small businesses for capital equipment purchases that help the company meet or exceed environmental regulations, and cover costs associated with the investigation and cleanup of contaminated sites.

Eligibility

The loan program can be used for clean-ups for contaminated sites or projects that reduce on-site air emissions or waste generation. It’s not intended for projects where energy efficiency is the sole environmental benefit, such as the purchase of vehicles or upgrades of lighting or HVAC systems.

Qualified borrowers must be an existing small business corporation, sole proprietorship, partnership, or association with:

• less than 100 full-time employees.
• an after-tax profit of less than $500,000.
• a demonstrated ability to repay the loan.



Available funds

Loan terms and conditions:

• loan amount between $1,000 and $75,000
• interest rate: Zero percent (0%)
• repayment term up to seven years
• flexibility in the types of collateral accepted
• awarded throughout the year

North Central Small Business Development Center Workshops | Spring Lineup

As you look ahead and beginning planning for you personal and team's learning onjectives for the new year, consider marking your calendar for the following offerings.

AI for Small Business: This interactive session introduces business owners to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. Participants will learn practical applications to enhance customer service, streamline operations, and improve marketing efforts. The workshop is tailored for attendees of all technical backgrounds, equipping them with AI-driven solutions for everyday business challenges. Dates and locations include:

• January 14^th | Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus | 8:30AM-10:30AM

• January 28^th | Minnesota State Wadena Campus | 5:30PM-7:30PM

• April 3^rd | Chisago County HRA-EDA Office | 12:00PM-2:00PM

• April 10^th | Pine County Courthouse | 12:00PM-2:00PM

Grow with Google: This is a hands-on workshop focused on leveraging Google’s powerful suite of tools to boost online presence and productivity. Attendees will explore Google Business Profiles, online advertising strategies with Google Ads, data-driven insights from Google Analytics, and streamlined operations with Google Workspace. This session empowers participants to expand their digital footprint and connect with customers effectively. Dates and locations include:

• March 4^th | Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus | 8:30AM-10:30AM

• March 27^th | Minnesota State Wadena Campus | 5:30PM-7:30PM

Buying a Business Basics: This workshop offers first-time buyers essential guidance on acquiring a business. Topics include evaluating opportunities, financing options, due diligence, and key negotiation tactics. Through expert insights and interactive exercises, participants will develop the confidence to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of business ownership. Dates and locations include:

• February 13^th | Central Lakes College Brainerd Campus | 8:30AM-10:30AM

• February 20^th | Minnesota State Wadena Campus | 5:30PM-7:30PM

To learn more and to register, please visit www.ifound.org/trainings.

Business Education Through SCORE

The wealth of content available when starting or growing a business can be overwhelming, especially as you deal with so many areas of development from finance to marketing to legal and business formation issues.

• Dec 3, 1pm EST: Market Research for Small Business—Using Free Tools to Grow

• Dec 5, 1pm EST: Expert Tips for Starting and Growing a Successful Business

• Dec 10, 1pm EST: Creating A business Plan That Works

• Dec 11, 1pm EST: How to Create a Marketing Plan for Your Small Business

• Dec 12, 1pm EST: How Tarrifs Can Impact Your Small Business

• Dec 17, 1pm EST : Loans, Grants, and Other Funding Option for Small Businesses

• Dec 19, 1pm EST: Strategies and Tips for Finding a Retail Space