The COVID pandemic had many impacts on DEED programs. Some individuals were hesitant or unable to seek employment, independent living or other agency services due to the health risks associated with COVID-19. Most agency facilities were closed to in-person service. And, schools and other agencies DEED partners with for service delivery were also closed. As a result, the number of customers served by some DEED programs during 2020-2021 saw decreases in participation. As we’ve moved farther from the height of the pandemic, we are starting to see service numbers return to pre-pandemic levels.
This program, through a Request for Proposals, makes grants to nonprofit partner organizations to fund 30% matching grants up to $750,000 and guaranteed loans up to $2,000,000 to eligible recipients for eligible projects that are designed to address the greatest economic development and redevelopment needs that have arisen in communities across Minnesota since March 15, 2020.
Customers and Services
In the proposals, partner organizations define a service area that includes one or more commercial corridors and/or areas of concentrated commercial activity that have been impacted by conditions that have arisen in the area since March 2020. Proposals will demonstrate how these conditions have resulted in the need for these funds to spur investment and increase commercial activity within those identified commercial corridors.
Specific qualifying conditions may include but are not limited to:
Widespread arson and civil unrest
Natural disasters
Major plant closures, significant commercial vacancy increases, and/or loss of economic anchor institutions
COVID-19 pandemic impacts on travel, tourism, retail, and accommodation
Partner organizations receiving grant funds from this program can use the funds to establish a program within one or more commercial corridors to provide assistance to eligible recipient and projects within a defined service area.
Partner organizations can offer grants up to $750,000 per project or up to $2,000,000 in guaranteed loans. Leveraged grants can cover up to 30% project cost. Guaranteed loans will be guaranteed by the state up to 80% of the value of the loan.
Leverage grants and guaranteed loans can be used eligible recipients for the following:
Repair, or renovation of real property
Building construction
Landscaping and streetscaping
Demolition and site preparation
Predesign and design
Engineering
Infrastructure
Related site amenities
Eligible project expenses do not include the purchase of real estate or business operations or business operating expenses, such as inventory, wages, or working capital.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of Revitalization Partnerships Awarded
8
14
Total Leverage Grant Allocation
$32.8M
$40.6M
Total Leverage Grants Approved
$13.6M
$36.4M
Total Leverage Grants Disbursed
$0
$46.2M
Total loans enrolled in guarantees
$0
$2.2M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
The Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers services provides migrant and seasonal farmworkers (MSFWs) with a full range of employment services and referrals to other community services.
Customers and Services
Migrant and Seasonal Farmworkers engaged in farm work that are eligible to work in the United States and of legal age to perform services for wages are eligible for services. Services are provided to MSFWs by migrant labor representatives (MLRs) who are proficient in both English and Spanish, to better serve the predominantly Spanish speaking clientele. Services include quality employment services, providing farmworker rights information and complaint process information to MSFWs, and referrals to local support services. Services are administered at four main CareerForce locations in Faribault, Mankato, Rochester, and Willmar. The State Monitor Advocate provides guidance to MLRs to ensure the State of Minnesota is in compliance with federal regulations.
The full range of services provided to Migrant Seasonal Farm Workers includes job search assistance and placement, job counseling, training opportunities, providing information on farmworker rights and the complaint process, and referrals to supportive services.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total applicants
489
509
298
347
386
Number referred to jobs
7
34
5
3
3
Number received staff assisted services
489
509
298
447
545
Number referred to support services
350
414
231
283
302
Number received career guidance
359
438
197
274
309
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
98.7%
98.8%
98.0%
98.86%
97.69%
Women
45.3%
49.8%
51.7%
49.72%
51.41%
Funding Source and Allocation
This program does not receive a direct allocation. It is funded by federal Wagner-Peyser Act, which is reported on the Job Service summary.
Statutory Authority
Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Protection Act, U.S. Code Title 29, Chap. 20
The Minnesota 21st Century Fund program makes loans or equity investments (either directly or through grants funds provided to the Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation) in mineral, steel, and other industry processing, production, manufacturing or technology projects.
Customers and Services
Financial assistance provided to businesses located in - or to be located in - Minnesota's taconite assistance area.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Dollars awarded
$0
$300,000
$0
$22.75M
$6.5M
Number of projects
0
1
0
2
1
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
Funding Source and Allocation
All awards are funded from the 21st Century Revolving Fund.
The Minnesota Family Resiliency Partnership program formerly the Displaced Homemaker program provides pre-employment services that empower participants to enter or re-enter the labor market after providing homemaker services.
Customers and Services
Customers are women and men who have spent a substantial number of years in the home providing homemaking services and now due to separation, divorce, death, or disability of spouse or partner, or other loss of financial support, must support themselves and their families. Eligibility is based on income guidelines.
Six vendors provide program services to 51+ counties. Workshops, support groups and networking, one-to-one personal or vocational counseling, job-seeking and job-keeping methods, leadership development, decision-making skills development, and assistance with developing an action plan are among the resources used to help participants build confidence, identify skills, and seek training or employment. Other services may include referral for remedial education, child care, legal assistance, transportation, work-tool expenses, and other support services. In addition to directly appropriated funds from the SFY22-23 Legislative session, funding for these services is allocated through a portion of fees on marriage license applications and divorce filings.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of individuals who received services
1,060
772
574
463
387
Percentage of customers who gain pre-employment positive goals, including higher education
85%
83%
86%
85%
81%
Percentage of customers who gain employment
32%
28%
21%
17%
18%
Average hourly wage of newly employed customer
$14.16
$15.49
$15.63
$17.64
$17.27
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
The Minnesota Investment Fund program provides financing that creates and retains high-quality jobs, with a focus on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries, to increase the local and state tax base and improve the economic vitality for all Minnesota citizens.
Customers and Services
Grants are awarded to local units of government who provide loans to assist new and expanding businesses. Cities, counties, townships, and recognized Indian tribal governments are eligible. Loans for land, buildings, infrastructure improvement, equipment, and renovation to support businesses located or intending to locate in Minnesota are eligible. The program focuses on industrial and technology-based firms. All projects must meet minimum criteria for private investment, number of jobs created or retained, and wages paid.
The program has two separate activities funded by different sources. General fund appropriations and ongoing loan repayments returned to DEED fund state-funded business loans. Federally funded loans are from the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. Because of more restrictive federal fund use, not all projects or areas are eligible and program measures are viewed differently than for state-funded projects.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
State dollars awarded
$7.7M
$5.8M
$8.14M
$10.0M
$11.38M
Number of jobs created/retained with state dollars*
898
740
1,957
1,570
1,107
*May include jobs contractually agreed-upon by loan recipients.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
The Minnesota Job Creation Fund encourages capital investment and high-wage job creation in key Minnesota industries throughout the state.
Customers and Services
The program provides financial benefits to expanding businesses that are in eligible industries and meet program requirements. Among the eligibility requirements are spending at least $500,000 ($250,000 for targeted locations and demographics) in real property improvements within one year, creating at least 10 (5 for targeted locations and demographics) new full-time positions that meet compensation requirements within two years and possessing expansion options outside the state. All financing is performance-based and provided as the business meets capital investment and job creation thresholds.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
State Dollars Awarded*
$8.8M
$7.1M
$6.6M
$7.6M
$10.2M
Project Job Creation
1,788
878
1,103
1,067
1,163
Projected Eligible Investment
$217M
$141M
$165M
$290M
$185M
Projected Total Project Investment
$413M
$295M
$362M
$644M
$751M
*No dollars are disbursed until a business submits evidence of qualifying capital investment and job creation.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership program helps business and education develop cooperative training projects. The Minnesota Job Skills Partnership (MJSP) Board awards grants to educational institutions that partner with businesses to develop new-job training or retraining for existing employees. Targeted MJSP funds are directed to the Low-Income Worker Training Program, which helps low-income individuals receive training to acquire higher-paying jobs and economic self-sufficiency.
Customers and Services
Accredited Minnesota public and private educational institutions are eligible, with preference given to nonprofit institutions serving economically disadvantaged people, minorities, or victims of economic dislocation; and to businesses located in rural areas. Funds may be used for training-related costs or educational infrastructure improvements necessary to support businesses located or intending to locate in Minnesota. Low-Income Worker Training Program customers are individuals with incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty line; and Minnesota public, private, or nonprofit entities that provide employment services to low-income individuals.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Low-Income Worker Training grants/dollars awarded
0/$0
0/$0
9/$1.5M
0/$0
0/$0
Low-Income Worker Training workers trained
0
0
547
0
0
All other MJSP grants/dollars awarded
55/$8.9M
39/$6.3M
25/$3.4M
32/$5.8M
36/$5.1M
All other MJSP workers trained
10,611
5,840
3,746
6,171
5,496
Private dollars leveraged
$22.0M
$12.6M
$5.6M
$10.8M
$11.2M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the Partnership, Pathways, and Low-Income Worker Training grants programs.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
17%
13%
37%
29%
27%
Individuals with Disabilities
1%
1%
2%
2%
2%
Veterans
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
Women
35%
41%
38%
27%
30%
NA=data not available
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Workforce Development Fund
$7.0M*
$0
$0
$0
$0
State General Fund
$4.2M
$4.2M
$4.2M
$4.2M
$4.2M
*A transfer of funds from the Dislocated Worker program to the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership programs was made in June 2019, based on Board authorization as allowed by statutory authority.
The Minnesota Loan Guarantee program is part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0. It supports private loans that may have otherwise been inaccessible or prohibitively expensive by agreeing to reduce the lender’s exposure on a loan. Guarantees are provided to enrolled lenders to help mitigate risk, but the lending capital is provided by the lenders, not the program.
Customers and Services
Eligible banks, credit unions and nonprofit lenders are enrolled into the program. Borrowers apply directly to enrolled lenders. Borrowers must be small businesses located in Minnesota, with fewer than 500 employees. Although the program does not have an industry focus, certain businesses that are speculative in nature are ineligible under SSBCI guidelines. Loan proceeds must be used for eligible business purposes.
Measures
Reporting period is calendar year (CY), January 1 - December 31*
Measure
CY 2023
Number of businesses assisted
19
SSBCI funds contributed
$1.17M
Private capital contributed
$8.26M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address ongoing disparities with a view to achieving economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. SSBCI 2.0 has specific goals for financial assistance to businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
Funding Source and Allocation
SSBCI 2.0 allocates up to $97 million into six state programs: Automation Loan Participation program, Direct Investment Venture Capital, Growth Loan Fund, Minnesota Loan Guarantee program, Multi-Fund Venture Capital, and Small Business Loan Participation program. Funding amounts for the individual programs shift, depending on demand. The two venture capital programs are administered by the University of Minnesota Office of Investments and Banking.
Minnesota Reservist and Veteran Business Loan Program
Purpose
The Minnesota Reservist and Veterans Business Loans program provides loans to small businesses that suffer substantial economic injury because an essential employee has been called to service in the military reserves for 180 days or longer; and to recently separated veterans to start veteran-owned small businesses.
Customers and Services
For business economic injury loans, an eligible business must be a for-profit business that is not an affiliate or subsidiary of a business dominant in its field of operations and have either 20 or fewer full-time employees or have had less than $1 million in annual gross revenue the preceding fiscal year or, if the business is a technical or professional service, less than $2.5 million in annual gross revenue the preceding fiscal year. The business must be operating in Minnesota on the date that one or more essential employees received orders for active service of 180 days or more and be sustaining or likely to sustain suffering substantial economic injury.
For veteran startup business loans, an eligible veteran must have been on active duty on or after 9/11/2001, have been honorably discharged after serving at least 181 consecutive days of service, and be starting a veteran-owned small business.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of veteran startup business loans
6
5
9
6
3
Dollar amount of loans made
$120,000
$100,000
$180,000
$107,000
$47,000
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, or women - is available.
Funding Source and Allocation
This program received a $400,000 appropriation in 2008. All loans through SFY 2019 are funded through a revolving loan fund seeded by loan repayments and a one-time transfer of $300,000.
The Minnesota Trade Office assists Minnesota companies in successfully competing in international markets and in attracting foreign direct investment to the state. The office also acts as the protocol office for the state.
Customers and Services
Primary customers are small and medium-sized manufacturers and service providers requiring export assistance. Services include counseling and technical assistance from international trade representatives who can guide companies through the challenges of conducting international business; promotional programs (trade missions and trade shows) to help companies explore market opportunities firsthand and meet potential buyers, distributors, and partners; education and training programs (seminars, workshops, and roundtables) designed to provide companies the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful exporters; online market information and reference materials; promoting Minnesota as a business location at selected events and trade shows; and working with local partners to support visits to Minnesota by foreign corporate executives. The office administers the State Trade and Export Promotion (STEP) grant program which provides financial assistance for export-related activities to qualifying small Minnesota businesses.
Foreign trade offices - Europe, UK/Ireland, Japan, Canada and the GSGP network - exist to increase exports and foreign direct investment. The program also works closely with the DEED library to maintain an extensive collection of market intelligence available to companies for market research. Minnesota companies can easily access services by calling the Trade Assistance Helpline at 651-259-7498.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Increase in export growth from previous year
2.8%
-18%
-1.4%
17%
-7.6%*
Number of organizations receiving export assistance
1,924
1,090
1,330
1,103
998
Number of companies contacted regarding investment in Minnesota
689
1,030
1,152
992
1,002
*As of October 2022. Final numbers will not be available until March 2024. Export numbers cover calendar year 2023
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, Veterans, or women - is available. Targeted groups do receive extra points in the evaluation of STEP grant applications.
The Minnesota Youth program (MYP) provides comprehensive summer and year-round employment and training services to economically disadvantaged and at-risk youth.
Customers and Services
Comprehensive services prepare at-risk youth, ages 14 to 24, for the world of work, including: career exploration and planning, labor market information on in-demand occupations, work readiness skills, financial literacy training and quality work experience opportunities. Youth learn to apply skills learned in the classroom to real-work settings; their work accomplishments benefit local communities. Hands-on learning improves students' grades, attendance, and graduation rates. MYP is available in all 87 counties; strong local partnerships are in place with oversight from local Workforce Development Boards/Youth Committees. The Outreach to Schools/Career Advisor component of MYP provides cost-effective strategies for delivering career and labor market information to in-school youth. MYP serves a high percentage of at-risk youth who are under-represented in the workforce: 40% with disabilities, 61% receive public assistance, 15% are system-involved youth (homeless, runaway, foster youth, youth offenders), and 54% are youth from communities of color.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023*
Total youth served
3,384
2,934
2,684
3,278
3,766
Attained work readiness or education goals
71%
97%
97%
92%
91%
Obtained HS Diploma, GED, Remained in School, Obtained Certificate or Degree, Dropout Returned to School
55%
88%
73%
82%
74%
Received academic or service-learning credit
45%
76%
73%
65%
63%
Entered employment, post-secondary education, apprenticeship, or military
26%
24%
32%
21%
23%
Customer satisfaction: youth rate experience as excellent or very good
89%
90%
83%
80%
86%
Return on investment (ROI) for each state dollar invested in program
$6.54
$8.60
$9.45
$9.29
$12.77
Youth Served by Outreach to Schools/Career Advisors
23,896
19,126
14,880
19,975
32,038
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023*
Youth from communities of color
50%
54%
50%
60%
54%
Youth with disabilities
44%
46%
47%
46%
40%
Female youth
47%
49%
49%
50%
51%
*SFY 2023 data period is July 1, 2022 - September 30, 2023
The Minnesota Youthbuild program offers a construction career pathway for primarily low-income youth who have dropped out of school or experienced academic failure. Communities benefit from highly visible community building projects and affordable housing constructed by Youthbuild participants. Participants receive classroom and worksite training in construction and safety skills, carpentry math and basic academic skills, work readiness, career exploration, leadership, and life skills. On the worksite, an experienced trainer provides construction training and mentoring to youth to strengthen their soft skills, including on-time, everyday attendance. Youthbuild staff assist youth in completing their high school diploma or GED, developing a comprehensive career plan, and provide them with one-on-one counseling and support services to address employment barriers.
Upon program exit, youth receive follow-up services and are placed in a building trade registered apprenticeship and union construction employment, other career employment, advanced technical training, and/or post-secondary education. The majority of youth exit the program with a diploma or GED, work-ready soft skills, 500 hours of residential construction training and work experience, and safety certification in OSHA 10, S/P2, and/or 1st Aid/CPR. While enrolled in the program, youth also earn industry-recognized credentials in construction and the Construction Plus career pathways of healthcare, advanced manufacturing, law enforcement, automotive mechanics, and arborist tree care. Construction-related credentials include Forklift Operations, and DOL-recognized construction credentials from Home Builders Institute (HBI), Multi-Craft Core Curriculum (MC3) and National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Several Youthbuild participants also are versed in the NCSRCC Career Connections to better align Youthbuild’s construction training with Minnesota’s registered apprenticeship standards in carpentry and the union building trades.
Customers and Services
Eligible participants are at-risk for dropping out of high school or have dropped out. The vast majority are low income, BIPOC youth; 41% are young women; half are ages 16-17 and half are young adults, 18-24; approximately 90% are basic skills deficient, 40% are from families receiving public-assistance, 40% are youth with disabilities; about a quarter are recent immigrants with limited English ability, and over a third are homeless or system-involved youth (aging out of foster care, or having past involvement in the juvenile or criminal justice system).
Ten organizations offer Youthbuild programs across the state; in Greater Minnesota: Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency, Inc. (Grand Rapids); Bi-County Community Action Programs (Bemidji); Central Minnesota Jobs and Training Services (Pine, Kanabec, Kandiyohi, and Wright counties); Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program (Detroit Lakes and Moorhead); Career Solutions (St. Cloud); and Workforce Development, Inc. (Rochester). In the Twin Cities area: Southwest Metro ISD #288 (Scott and Carver counties); City Academy and The Change, Inc. (St. Paul); and Tree Trust (Minneapolis).
With additional funding from the 2023 legislature, four new Youthbuild grants were each awarded $150,000 per year in funding and ten existing grants received from $15,000 to $77,000 in additional annual funding for the SFY 2024 and SFY 2025 biennium. Organizations and locations receiving new grants included: Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota (St. Paul), The Man Up Club (Minneapolis), Workforce Development, Inc. (Rice County), and Riverside Plaza Tenants Association (Minneapolis).
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total youth served
396
407
436
457
453
Attained work readiness or education goals
90%
99%
83%
90%
93%
Obtained HS diploma, GED, remained in school, obtained certificate or degree, dropout returned to school
93%
96%
97%
96%
93%
Entered employment, post-secondary education, apprenticeship, or military within 6 months of exit
81%
88%
91%
84%
91%
Earned an industry-recognized credential or safety certificate
82%
89%
72%
78%
79%
Earned academic or service-learning credit
85%
83%
73%
99%
90%
Units affordable housing, garages, community gardens or community structures constructed by participants
49
69
65
46
53
Customer satisfaction: youth rate experience as excellent or very good
85%
86%
89%
89%
91%
Return on investment (ROI) for each state dollar invested in program
$4.04
$5.68
$6.98
$8.36
$10.66
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
The Multi-Fund Venture Capital program is part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0. It supports Minnesota-based venture capital funds in order to make seed and early-stage venture capital investments in Minnesota startup companies. DEED has contracted with the University of Minnesota Office of Investments and Banking (UMN OIB) to administer the program.
Customers and Services
Fund managers apply directly to UMN OIB. Funds must plan to invest in small businesses headquartered in Minnesota that have fewer than 500 employees. Areas of interest include: Agtech/Foodtech, Life Sciences, Climate Tech, Advanced Manufacturing, Software and Technology. Funds investing in other industries may also be eligible, although certain business types are ineligible under SSBCI guidelines. Investment proceeds must be used for eligible business purposes.
Measures
Reporting period is calendar year (CY), January 1 - December 31*
Measure
CY 2023
Number of fund investments
4
SSBCI funds contributed
$4.25M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address ongoing disparities with a view to achieving economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. SSBCI 2.0 has specific goals for financial assistance to businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
Funding Source and Allocation
SSBCI 2.0 allocates up to $97 million into six state programs: Automation Loan Participation program, Direct Investment Venture Capital, Growth Loan Fund, Minnesota Loan Guarantee program, Multi-Fund Venture Capital, and Small Business Loan Participation program. Funding amounts for the individual programs shift, depending on demand. The two venture capital programs are administered by the University of Minnesota Office of Investments and Banking.
The Native American Business Loan program supports the development of American Indian-owned and -operated businesses and promotes economic opportunities for Native American people throughout Minnesota.
Customers and Services
Eligible applicants must be enrolled members of a federally recognized Minnesota-based band or tribe and be wholly owned. Each band or tribe is allocated funds from the Native American Business Loan Fund, based on the number of enrolled members. DEED administers the program and services the loans, while the appropriate tribal council approves loan applications for the Lower Sioux Community, Prairie Island Community, Shakopee-Mdewakanton Community, and the Upper Sioux Community. DEED has executed agreements that authorize the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe, the remaining Minnesota Chippewa Tribes via MCT in Cass Lake, and the Red Lake Band of Chippewa to operate the loan program on behalf of the department.
Businesses may be located anywhere in the state, although most of the loans are made to businesses on a reservation. Eligible projects include startup and expansion costs, including normal expenses such as machinery and equipment, inventory and receivables, working capital, new construction, renovation, and site acquisition.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of projects
2
2
2
1
0
Loan amounts
$85,766
$81,519
$119,553
$48,750
$0
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. This program specifically targets American Indian-owned and operated business.
Funding Source and Allocation
This program did not receive a general fund appropriation during the period SFY 2018 - SFY 2022. All loans are funded from a revolving loan fund which also receives 20% of the state's annual mineral severance tax collection.
Northgate Development LLC - Direct Appropriation Grant Program - Adult
Purpose
Minnesota Laws of 2021, Chap. 4, Art. 2, Sec. 2 subd. 1 authorized a Direct Appropriation of $2,500,000 for Clean Energy Career Training Pilot Project "for a grant to Northgate Development, LLC, for a pilot project under article 8, section 30, to provide training pathways into careers in the clean energy sector for students and young adults in underserved communities. Any unexpended funds remaining at the end of the biennium cancel to the renewable development account. This is a onetime appropriation."
In the 2023 legislative session, the language was amended to extend this project to June 30, 2024.
Sec. 4. Laws 2021, First Special Session chapter 4, article 2, section 2, subdivision 1, is amended to read:
Subdivision 1. Clean Energy Career Training Pilot Project
$2,500,000 the first year is for a grant to Northgate Development, LLC, for a pilot project under article 8, section 30, to provide training pathways into careers in the clean energy sector for students and young adults in underserved communities. Any unexpended funds remaining at the end of the biennium fiscal year 2024 cancel to the renewable development account. This is a onetime appropriation and is available until June 30, 2024.
This pilot project under Article 8, Section 30 which authorizes the commissioner of employment and economic development to issue a grant for a pilot project "to provide training pathways into careers in the clean energy sector for students and young adults in underserved communities." The total amount of funding appropriated is $2,500,000 for two years from the appropriations are from the renewable development account in the special revenue fund established in Minnesota Statutes, section 116C.779, subdivision 1. 2021 legislation permits DEED to retain five percent of these funds for administration and monitoring, making the total amount available for a grant equal to $2,375,000.
The pilot project must develop skills in program participants, short of the level required for licensing under Minn. Stat. Chap. 326, that are relevant to designing, constructing, operating, or maintaining:
systems that produce renewable solar or wind energy;
improvements in energy efficiency, as defined under Minn. Stat. Sec. 216B.241 subd. 1;
energy storage systems, including battery technology, connected to renewable energy facilities;
infrastructure for charging all-electric or electric hybrid motor vehicles; or
grid technologies that manage load and provide services to the distribution grid that reduce energy consumption or shift demand to off-peak periods.
Training must be designed to create pathways to:
a postsecondary degree, industry certification, or a registered apprenticeship program under Minn. Stat. Chap. 178, that is related to the fields listed above, and
stable career employment at a living wage.
Program Structure
Upon award, Northgate Development began developing a clean energy careers pilot program at the former state workforce center in North Minneapolis that is now owned by Northgate. The goal was to develop training pathways for students and young adults from under-served communities without access to skills training for new and emerging jobs in clean energy. Skills training will focus on emerging and fast-growing jobs in advanced energy fields including: solar and wind; energy efficiency; energy storage; electric vehicle infrastructure and grid technologies.
In addition, Northgate will make significant improvements to the existing building for it to provide high-quality training space for these career fields. Improvements include renovated interior space, lab and workshop areas certified by national training organizations, and demonstrations of innovative energy systems to serve as teaching tools for advanced skills.
Customers and Services
Grant funds focus on serving Underserved and under-employed BIPOC youth and adult residents of North Minneapolis and the surrounding seven-county Twin Cities metropolitan area.
Measures
Northgate Development LLC will evaluate the success of the program
the number of participants served,
the number of participants completing training and earning credentials, and
the number who become employed in clean energy jobs.
Measure
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of participants served
15
67
Number of participants enrolled in training
15
66
Total attaining a credential
9
25
Total exit to unsubsidized employment
1
2
Total exit to apprenticeship program
0
0
NA = Data are not available.
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 – June 30 (according to legislation this contract’s end date 6/30/2024, data reported here is through 6/30/2023).
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
80%
75%
Individuals with Disabilities
1%
13%
Veterans
0%
1%
Women
7%
21%
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Commerce Fund/Renewable Development Account
$2.5M
$2.5M
Northgate Development, LLC, shall submit an annual report to the commissioner of employment and economic development that must include, at a minimum, information on program expenditures:
See Total Expenditures below, including but not limited to amounts spent on:
Cost Breakdown
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Administrative Cost
$141,594.88
$237,194.88
Program (curriculum development, instructors, equipment/material, leasing)
$118,393.18
$507,756.66
Improving space for use by the program
$129,854.15
$737,329.06
Other public or private funding sources, including in-kind donations, supporting the pilot program
$160,000 from LCDA Met Council for the Heat Pumps
$250,000 from Hennepin County
$100,000 from the City of Minneapolis
The number of program participantssee Measures above
The number of program participants placed in a postsecondary program, industry certification program, or registered apprenticeship program under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 178.
Demographic information on program participants see Achieving Equity above
Cost per participant(calculated using participant outcomes and expenses as reported through 06/30/2023)
Participant Outcomes through 06/30/2023
Participants
Cost Per Participant
Cost per participant served
67
$22,364.49
Cost per participant attaining credential
25
$59,936.82
Cost per participant exit to employment
2
$749,210.30
Cost per participant(calculated using participant outcomes and expenses not including space improvement as reported through 06/30/2023)
Participant Outcomes through 6/30/2023
Participants
Cost Per Participant
Cost per participant served
67
$11,359.58
Cost per participant attaining credential
25
$30,443.66
Cost per participant exit to employment
2
$380,545.77
Total Expenditures
Northgate Development LLC developed an SFY2022 project budget effective 9/17/2021 thru 6/30/2024. Amounts shown were current as of 06/30/2023.
Cost Category
Allocated Amount
Total Expenses/Reimbursements
Administration
$237,500.00
$237,194.88
Grants
$1,197,151.42
$737,329.06
Direct Services
$503,002.00
$386,314.66
Direct Customer Training
$400,546.58
$121,442.00
Support Services Costs
$36,800
$16,140.00
Total
$2,375,000.00
$1,498,420.60
Figures in the "Allocated Amount" column represent DEED funds. Total matching funds were $510,000.
Pathways to Prosperity (P2P) is an innovative strategy that integrates basic skills education, career-specific training, support services, and employment placement and retention to meet the needs of unemployed and under-employed adults.
Customers and Services
Pathways to Prosperity projects are designed for adults who face multiple barriers to employment, and who are in need of enhanced educational and supportive services to be successful in securing long-term employment with family sustaining wages. This competitively awarded grant program targets populations of color; individuals experiencing housing insecurity; individuals with a criminal record; individuals lacking a high school diploma or equivalent; individuals with disabilities; and individuals unemployed for 26 or more consecutive weeks. In addition, special consideration is provided to veterans, individuals returning to work after receiving public assistance, and low-income and older workers. Participating individuals obtain, retain, and advance in unsubsidized employment or complete training along an educational path, as demonstrated by annual wage increases, placement and retention in a job or education or training program, and completion of training leading to an industry-recognized credential.
Pathways to Prosperity funding is divided in to three individual programs to ensure participants can easily access each program's unique focus on a participant's career pathways and allowing for providers to deliver clear paths to a career no matter which level of educational attainment the participant currently holds. The three programs emphasize educational attainment (coupled with navigation services and barrier removal) to increase mobility, employability, and skills leading to higher wages.
On-Ramp to Career Pathways targets individuals interested in earning a certificate and/or improving their employment skills. Providers partner with an active ABE consortia provider to ensure certified training curriculum will provide measurable skills gain relevant to support the Local Workforce Development Area (LWDA) plan.
Bridge to Career Pathways targets individuals seeking to improve skills or obtain new skills to earn an industry recognized credential in line with the LWDA plan. Providers partner with an active employer and an active ABE consortia provider.
Individualized Training Pathways targets individuals seeking training in four targeted industry sectors: Healthcare, Information Technology, Skilled Trades, and Advanced Manufacturing (or other high growth in demand sectors earning a median wage of $15 per hour and is specific to the service area). Providers partner with a Post-Secondary institution or Union Apprenticeship and an active employer partner(s) to further support participants within the specific industry trainings.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022*
SFY 2023
Number of participants
2,093
1,824
2,322
1,151
2,602
Number of participants enrolled in training
552
1,405
1,729
989
2,076
Total exited attaining a credential
481
515
313
336
1,279
Total exited to unsubsidized employment
NA
485
572
161
825
Percentage employed first quarter after exit
77%
14%
26%
70%
NA
NA=data not available
*Due to pandemic, multiple contracts were extended to 12/31/2022, data reported here is through 9/30/2022
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD)
Purpose
The Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD) Grant in Minnesota is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of justice and workforce system partnerships to provide employment services, educations, and job training, that will lead to family-sustaining in-demand careers.
Customers and Services
Focused on individuals transitioning from federal incarceration to community reintegration, the program seeks to create safe, prosperous communities by harnessing the untapped talent pool of those leaving federal correctional institutions.
Measures
Employing a three-stage approach that provides services and supports beginning while in federal prison incarceration, transitioning to Residential Reentry Centers (RRCs), and post-release within the communities the participants will live, PROWD utilizes key measures such as employment labs, consistent job coaching, innovative technology use, peer mentoring, and comprehensive supportive services during follow-up to ensure successful reentry and sustained employment outcomes.
Achieving Equity
PROWD addresses equity by ensuring participants have access to skills demanded by local employers. Through cross-agency and cross-systems partnerships, the program eliminates barriers to employment, emphasizing the creation of quality jobs to promote equity.
Funding Source and Allocation
Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) under the First Step Act (FSA) of 2018, the program received $8 million for a 42-month performance period covers planning, startup, and a minimum of 12 months of follow-up, demonstrating a commitment to sustained impact. Additionally, DEED will receive an $2 million in WIOA funding. to fund Stage 3, authorized by WIOA sec. 169, with an additional (up to) 48-month period of performance.
Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD) (Expansion)
Purpose
The Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD) Grant in Minnesota is a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing the capacity of justice and workforce system partnerships to provide employment services, educations, and job training, that will lead to family-sustaining in-demand careers. Focused on individuals transitioning from federal incarceration to community reintegration, the program seeks to create safe, prosperous communities by harnessing the untapped talent pool of those leaving federal correctional institutions. The Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) continues to lead not only the initial Partners for Reentry Opportunities in Workforce Development (PROWD) Grant Round 1, but also spearheads a groundbreaking initiative—the PROWD Expansion grant.
Customers and Services
The PROWD Expansion grant specifically serves individuals releasing from four Federal facilities in Rochester, Duluth, Waseca, and Sandstone, as well as two Residential Reentry Centers in Minneapolis and Roseville.
Measures
Employing a three-stage approach that provides services and supports beginning while in federal prison incarceration, transitioning to Residential Reentry Centers (RRCs), and post-release within the communities the participants will live, PROWD utilizes key measures such as employment labs, consistent job coaching, innovative technology use, peer mentoring, and comprehensive supportive services during follow-up to ensure successful reentry and sustained employment outcomes. The program's goal is to serve 150 individuals over a four-year period of performance.
The PROWD Expansion grant incorporates specific performance indicators and targets for Minnesota:
Employment Rate – 2nd Quarter after Exit
Employment Rate – 4th Quarter after Exit
Median Earnings – 2nd Quarter after Exit
Credential Attainment Rate
Measurable Skills Gains
Effectiveness in Serving Employers
Achieving Equity
PROWD addresses equity by ensuring participants have access to skills demanded by local employers. Through cross-agency and cross-systems partnerships, the program eliminates barriers to employment, emphasizing the creation of quality jobs to promote equity.
Funding Source and Allocation
In 2023, the MN PROWD Expansion Grant demonstrated a commitment to expanding effective reentry initiatives in Minnesota by securing an additional DOL/DOJ $3,000,000 investment. This funding underscores the state's dedication to advancing its reentry programs.
This Redevelopment Grant program offers grants to assist development authorities with costs for redeveloping blighted industrial, residential, or commercial sites where the need to recycle the land for a more productive use exists.
Customers and Services
Eligible applicants are development authorities, including cities, counties, port authorities, housing and redevelopment authorities, and economic development authorities. Grants can pay for land acquisition, demolition, infrastructure improvements, soil stabilization when infill is required, ponding or other environmental infrastructure, and adaptive reuse of buildings, including remedial activities at sites where a subsequent redevelopment will occur.
Since 2007, priority funding has been given to eligible applications statewide at a 50/50 split between Greater Minnesota and the Minneapolis/St. Paul metropolitan area. There are additional criteria for determining further priority.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Dollars awarded
$2.47M
$5.785M
$1.9M
$5.5M
$4M
Number of acres redeveloped
23
56.38
23.34
44.72
54.2
Number of jobs created
372
331
74
337
92
Number of jobs retained
1,548
446
48
272
463
Dollars leveraged
$278M
$392.4M
$164.9M
$324.3M
$318.9M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The intended customer of this program is not a business, therefore, no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019*
SFY 2020*
SFY 2021*
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
General Fund Proceeds**
$0
$0
$0
$0
$0
*There was a $3M transfer from the Minnesota Investment Fund in SFY 2019 and $2M in SFY 2020 and 2021.
**There has been no direct appropriation since SFY 2017.
The Rural Career Counseling Coordinator Program (RC3) is charged with improving coordination and communication of workforce development programs and services with administering agencies in the 5 workforce development regions located outside the metropolitan area. The RC3 professionals have advanced local and regional workforce development program and service delivery knowledge; they apply that expertise with customer outreach and engagement and by making recommendations for continuous improvement or new workforce initiatives.
Customers and Services
The five workforce development regions in Minnesota outside of the Twin Cities metropolitan area each host one full-time rural career counseling coordinator. The coordinator is responsible for understanding the workforce development needs of existing, new, and prospective service area businesses. They also serve career seekers and students by providing counseling, training and work experience opportunities. Finally, the rural career counseling coordinators serve as a source of best practices and collaboration among the workforce development system stakeholders and partners in their respective regions.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total businesses served
NA
3,143
1,491
1,616
2,213
Total career seekers served
NA
14,923
10,418
22,751
12,172
Total K-12 institutions served
NA
325
3,850
434
1,073
Total post-secondary education institutions served
NA
61
92
43
48
NA=data not available
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The Rural Career Counseling Coordinators Program serves all customers, therefore, no data on businesses or jobseekers who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
The Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) fosters economic self-sufficiency through community service and training activities for low-income older workers. SCSEP provides participants with part-time, temporary, community service employment with the goal of gaining work experience and learning job skills that can lead to unsubsidized employment.
Customers and Services
Participants are unemployed Minnesotans 55+ years-old who have an income of less than 125% of the federal poverty levels. Services include annual physical examinations, personal and job-related counseling, and job training. Community service employment opportunities are typically part-time jobs at senior citizen and day care centers, schools, hospitals, and programs for people with disabilities. Program operations are sub-granted to ten agencies who together with two national sponsors serve Minnesota’s 87 counties.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number served
251
195
64
175
178
Percentage who entered unsubsidized employment (federal target = 25.6%)
32.4%
25.4%
45.5%
22.9%
21.6%
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
This Small Business Assistance program, through the Small Business Assistance Office (SBAO), serves as a point of first and continuing contact for individuals and firms with questions about the startup, operation or expansion of a business in Minnesota.
Customers and Services
The program provides publications, in collaboration with local law firms, on topics such as starting a business, the employer-employee relationship, Internet commerce, securities offerings, franchising, debt financing, and intellectual property protection to individuals and firms. Program staff provide counsel and direction in business structure, competitiveness, regulation, and taxation. Services are available free of cost to Minnesota businesses.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30.
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total number of inquiries and transactions by the SBAO*
28,623
27,303
31,803
29,783
26,800
Number of SBAO publications distributed in all formats**
114,492
102,000
103,990
106,000
60,000
Percentage rating The Guide to Starting a Small Business in Minnesota as "useful" in decision-making***
100%
NA
NA
NA
NA
Percentage using The Guide to Starting a Small Business in Minnesota in preparation for business startup within one year
90%
NA
NA
NA
NA
*For all years prior to SFY 2023 these are hard count numbers; for SFY 2023 this total is a statistical estimate.
**Hard copy, flash drive and digital download formats.
***Based on survey. This survey was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Under development on SFY 2024 is a new mechanism for determining services outcomes.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available. The Small Business Assistance Office is looking to determine the feasibility of gathering this information at time of service using a data gathering tool under development on the second half of SFY 2024.
There are no program performance outcomes available. The Small Business Assistance Office uses the intensity of demand for services as a measure of the value of these services to users. Under development in SFY 2024 is a new process mechanism for determining service outcomes.
Contact Information
Charles Schaffer, Director, Small Business Assistance
651-259-7477 or 800-657-3858
Small Business Assistance Partnerships (Business Development Competitive Grant Program)
Purpose
The Small Business Assistance Partnerships program provides business development assistance and services through grant recipients that are awarded funds through a competitive process.
Customers and Services
Funding is available only to non-profit organizations. The types of business targeted include, but are not limited to, entrepreneurs, minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses, businesses located in Greater Minnesota, and high-technology based businesses.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of entrepreneurs/businesses assisted
NA
4,678
6,381
8,436
16,471
Number of jobs created/retained
NA
5,548
15,914
11,286
20,645
Amount of business development capital
NA
$39M
$69M
$78M
$158M
NA=data not available
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. These competitive grants go to groups that provide business assistance to targeted groups, including women, minorities, veterans, persons with disabilities, Native Americans and rural residents.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
# of women-owned businesses served
NA
2,186
2,647
4,038
8,098
# of veteran-owned businesses served
NA
108
133
199
387
# of minority-owned businesses served
NA
1,000
2,129
3,369
6,861
# of Native American-owned businesses served
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
# of businesses served owned by people with disabilities
NA
32
124
275
567
# of Greater Minnesota based businesses served*
NA
1,913
4,417
4,388
7,463
# of high-technology businesses served
NA
NA
37
NA
NA
NA=data not available
*The definition of Greater Minnesota defined under Minn. Stat. Chap. 473, Sec. 121 subd. 2
The Small Business Development Center Network facilitates the startup, operation, and growth of businesses by serving as a first-point and continuing contact through one-on-one business consulting, group training, and assistance in securing capital to those who are interested in starting or expanding a small business in Minnesota.
Customers and Services
Services are available to Minnesota businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs. Consulting and training is provided on a wide variety of business issues such as business planning, marketing, financing, general business operations, buying or selling a business and disaster recovery. Services are provided through a network of nine regional Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and 35 additional outreach locations throughout the state. Consulting services are available at no cost to for-profit businesses that meet the U.S. Small Business Administration's definition of a small business. Per program regulations, SBDCs exist to assist for-profit businesses, but they do assist nonprofits and communities with economic development projects on a case-by-case basis.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of aspiring and existing businesses served
3,278
3,278
3,939
3,922
4,882
Number of professional consulting hours delivered
34,739
34,739
25,697
25,418
35,568
Percentage of customers who would recommend SBDCs to others
94%
94%
94%
94%
94%
Total businesses that started a business with assistance from SBDC
-
-
-
-
211
Assisted SBDC clients in acquiring capital
-
-
-
-
$129,363,605
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The SBDC tracks data on businesses served who represent targeted groups including communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and women.
The Small Business Loan Participation program is part of the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) 2.0. It provides approved lenders additional capital through loan participations to businesses that do not typically meet traditional bank financing criteria. It helps the lenders mitigate risk and leverage their investment in the businesses. DEED may participate in 25% to 30% of an eligible loan.
Customers and Services
Approved non-depository Community Development Financial Institutions and nonprofit lenders are enrolled into the program. Borrowers apply directly with enrolled lenders. Borrowers must be small businesses located in Minnesota, with fewer than 500 employees. Although the program does not have an industry focus, certain businesses that are speculative in nature are ineligible under SSBCI guidelines. Loan proceeds must be used for eligible business purposes.
Measures
Reporting period is calendar year (CY), January 1 - December 31*
Measure
CY 2023
Number of businesses assisted
7
SSBCI funds contributed
$302,000
Private capital contributed
$1M
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address ongoing disparities with a view to achieving economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. SSBCI 2.0 has specific goals for financial assistance to businesses owned by socially and economically disadvantaged individuals.
Funding Source and Allocation
SSBCI 2.0 allocates up to $97 million into six state programs: Automation Loan Participation program, Direct Investment Venture Capital, Growth Loan Fund, Minnesota Loan Guarantee program, Multi-Fund Venture Capital, and Small Business Loan Participation program. Funding amounts for the individual programs shift, depending on demand. The two venture capital programs are administered by the University of Minnesota Office of Investments and Banking.
The Small Cities Development program helps develop viable communities by providing financial assistance for safe and affordable housing, economic development, and public facility needs. These expanded economic opportunities that result principally benefit low- to moderate-income households.
Customers and Services
The program provides federal grants from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to local units of government on a competitive basis for a variety of community development projects. Eligible applicants include cities with a population of less than 50,000 and counties and townships with an unincorporated population of less than 200,000.
Funded projects must, at a minimum, meet one of three federal objectives: benefit low- and moderate-income persons; prevent or eliminate slum and blight conditions; or alleviate urgent community development needs caused by existing conditions that pose a serious and immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of projects
43
35
31
34
36
Dollars awarded
$24.1M
$21.1M
$18.4M
$20.8M
$23.4M
Communities served
48
37
34
36
38
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The intended customer of this program is not a business, therefore, no data on businesses who represent target populations groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans or women - is available.
Southeast Asian Economic Relief Competitive Grant Program
Purpose
The Southeast Asian Economic Relief Competitive Grant program addresses economic disparities in Southeast Asian communities through workforce recruitment and development, job creation, increased capacity of smaller organizations and outreach.
Customers and Services
Grants were awarded to organizations providing services to relieve economic disparities in Southeast Asian communities through workforce recruitment, development, job creation, and assistance of smaller organizations to increase capacity, and outreach. Services targeted individuals of Southeast Asian descent, including but not limited to Hmong, Lao, Vietnamese, Karen/Karenni, Filipino, Burmese, and/or Cambodian communities.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30.
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022*
SFY 2023
Number of participants
544
389
372
319
432
Number of participants enrolled in training
34
249
197
125
234
Total exited attaining a credential
159
101
22
89
183
Total exit to unsubsidized employment
160
152
128
46
143
Percentage employed first quarter after exit
69%
25%
67%
77%
NA
NA=data not available
*Due to pandemic, multiple contracts were extended to 12/31/2022, data reported here is through 9/30/2022
NOTE: Outcomes disaggregated by target populations are available on DEED's website.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
State Services for the Blind - Business Enterprises Program
Purpose
The Business Enterprises Program for the Blind provides appropriate training and support to assist Minnesotans who are legally blind to become self-employed in their own vending businesses.
Customers and Services
The program provides profitable vending machine business opportunities to qualified, licensed legally blind Minnesotans to broaden their economic opportunities. These self-employed vending business owners receive training, certification, technical support, and management services.
Qualified individuals must work with a State Services for the Blind (SSB) counselor, meet the requirements of a comprehensive evaluation process, and complete extensive training to be certified to operate a Business Enterprises Program (BEP) vending business. This program has exclusive authority to establish vending businesses on State of Minnesota property.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Businesses
28
28
27
26
23
New vendors trained
1
0
0
0
0
Sales volume
$5.7M
$4.8M
$3.3M
$4.1M
$5.2M
Vendors average net profit
$49,800
$40,823
$27,334
$35,498
$54,420
Net profit increase
18%
-18%
-34%
30%
53%
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Businesses owned by individuals with disabilities
100%
100%
100%
100%
100%
NOTE: Statistics on businesses owned by people of color, veterans, or women were too small to be disclosable.
State Services for the Blind - Communication Center for the Blind
Purpose
The Communication Center provides books, newspapers, magazines, and other printed materials in alternate formats for people who are blind, visually impaired, DeafBlind, or who have other disabilities that make it difficult for them to read print.
Customers and Services
The Communication Center transcribes standard print materials into braille, audio, e-text, and large print for Minnesotans who cannot read standard print. It is part of the National Library Service, repairing and distributing audio book players and accessories to Minnesota library patrons. The Center broadcasts a 24-hour radio reading service, which can be heard on the internet, cable television, Android and iOS apps, an Alexa skill, and the iBlink Radio application; and provides access to newspapers and magazines via phone and computer through telephone newspaper services - Dial-In News and the National Federation of the Blind-Newsline for the Blind®.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Braille pages provided
552,552
490,608
296,549
176,741
274,451
Print pages transcribed into audio
337,830
240,725
18,969
29,250
32,836
Number of separate times people accessed news services
447,098
436,669
405,990
437,201
662,133
Number of audio equipment maintained and circulated
8,534
5,128
8,867
4,225
4,157
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The Communication Center serves all customers who requests their services; no data on target populations groups is available.
Senior Services for the Blind's Senior Services assists older Minnesotans who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind regain or maintain their personal independence. This means supporting them in being self-sufficient in activities of daily living and independent in their homes and communities.
Customers and Services
Primary customers are persons age 55 and older who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind and are not seeking employment but want to maintain their personal independence. Services are provided by State Services for the Blind (SSB) staff who have skills in low vision assessment and services.
Services, provided according to customer needs, include: informational services consisting of information provided through the SSB website, telephone contacts, informational packets available at most community sites where seniors gather, and at community sessions conducted by SSB staff; staff-delivered services, consisting of assessment, recommendations, and training provided directly by SSB staff, and may include training in alternative techniques and the use of low-vision aids; and intensive services, consisting of more-extensive products and services provided by SSB staff in collaboration with external vendors.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Customers served
4,232
4,403
2,792
3,599
3,617
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. This program targets individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind.
State Services for the Blind - Workforce Development Services
Purpose
State Services for the Blind's Workforce Development program ensures that persons who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind (including those who have additional physical or mental impairments) have the rehabilitation services they need to prepare for, gain, advance in or retain competitive integrated employment.
Customers and Services
The Workforce Development program provides vocational rehabilitation services to potentially eligible students aged 14 through 21, as well as eligible individuals 14 and older. All individuals served are blind, low vision, or DeafBlind. Services are coordinated by 16 rehabilitation counselors in 7 field offices, 6 of whom are located within a CareerForce location. Services may include vocational guidance and counseling; training in adjustment to blindness, use of assistive technology, job-seeking skills, and vocational skills preparation; job placement assistance; and job accommodation assistance. Services are based on customer choice and are mutually agreed-upon between customer and counselor and written into an Individualized Plan for Employment, which must be tied to the customer's obtainment of a vocational goal.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number served
1,486
1,311
827
834
847
Number who achieved employment outcome
104
81
62
82
75
Average weekly salary of all closed as employed
$448
$562
$615
$656
$664
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. This program targets individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or DeafBlind.
The Support Services Competitive Grant program focuses on individuals from low-income communities, and/or young adults (ages 14-24) from families with a history of intergenerational poverty, and/or communities of color.
Customers and Services
Grant funds provide support services for individuals, such as job training, employment preparation, internships, job assistance to parents, financial literacy, academic and behavioral interventions for low-performing students, and youth intervention activities. Grant recipients are selected through a competitive process, typically in the first year of the biennium, and grantees and program models differ each biennium.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30.
Adult Projects
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of participants
384
87
225
101
589
Number of participants enrolled in training
226
52
69
74
252
Total exited attaining a credential
20
34
70
26
122
Percentage employed first quarter after exit
71%
61%
61%
NA
NA
NA=data not available
Youth Support Services
SFY 2018 & SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of participants (group and individual services)
8,492
2,435 (group)
578 (individual)
2,229 (group)
797 (individual)
635 (group)
310 (individual)
884 (group)
425 (individual)
Received education or job training activities
30%
87%*
94%*
78%*
78%*
*of those that received individual services.
NOTE: Youth Support Services performance measures are combined for SFY 2018 and SFY 2019 because funds were issued under a single, two-year contract.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions.
Adult Projects
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
73%
54%
71%
69%
74%
Individuals with Disabilities
13%
25%
13%
18%
14%
Veterans
4%
6%
<1%
1%
1%
Women
61%
26%
40%
38%
53%
Youth Support Services
SFY 2018 & SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
92%
74%
78%
89%
83%
Youth with Disabilities
5%
10%
15%
11%
14%
Public Assistance Recipients
21%
11%
50%
17%
20%
Women
44%
63%
58%
49%
47%
NOTE: Based on other characteristics of many of the youth served, the percentage of youth with disabilities is likely underreported.
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
General Fund
$750,000
$1.0M
$1.0M
$1.0M
$1.0M
NOTE: The total allocation each year is divided between Youth Support Services grants and Adult Support Services grants. Some funds from the previous SFY are carried forward and were expended in the following SFY.
Laws of Minnesota 2021 1st Special Session, Chap.14, Art. 11, Sec. 41 authorized funds of $24,000,000 "for the targeted community capital project grant program under Minn. Stat. Sec. 116J.9924. This appropriation is available until encumbered or spent subject to Minn. Stat. Sec. 16A.642. Art. 11, Sec. 42" of which $6,000,000 for one or more grants to any business engaged in the meat processing industry.
This project authorizes the commissioner of employment and economic development to "make competitive grants for capital projects to nonprofit organizations and government entities that provide, increase, or expand services to underserved communities or economically disadvantaged persons or groups."
The commissioner shall give priority to applicants that:
do not have a history of receiving capital grants from the state
demonstrate local support for the project
address needs for an underserved community, an economically disadvantaged area, or people or groups who are economically disadvantaged
provide community benefits; or
have previously received phased grant funds as described under subd. 4 and
In selecting projects for grants, the commissioner must equitably divide the total appropriation between the metropolitan areas and greater Minnesota.
Customers and Services
Grants were awarded to 16 projects across the state to provide, increase, or expand services to underserved communities or economically disadvantaged persons or group.
Measures
Upon execution of each Grantees' agreement programs will be evaluated on the following criteria in accordance with Chap. 14, Art. 2, Sec. 10 subd. 8.
Grantees awarded and the amount awarded for each project
Program Activities to be implemented upon project completion
Geographic Area(s) to be served
The following measures through 12/31/2022:
Grantee
Amount Awarded
Geographical Area
Program Activities Upon Completion
Access North
$123,071
Greater MN; Hibbing
Construct a carpentry shop to support seniors and people with disabilities stay in their homes.
ACER*
$921,486
Metro Area; Brooklyn Park
Purchased spaced to create Futures Entrepreneurship & Career Centers in Brooklyn Center and work with current tenants to improve store space.
CLUES*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; St. Paul
Purchase and renovate space to create Early Childcare Center, food pantry, and increase behavioral health services.
Ecolibrium3*
$843,250
Greater MN; Duluth
Renovation of properties to provide neighborhood resource hub, small footprint grocery & experiential STEM lab at the children's museum.
Emerge
$610,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Expansion of the current facility to increase access to WFD services, employment preparation, job placement and job skills for people returning from incarceration.
Itasca
$1,080,000
Greater MN; Itasca
Construct "The Forge", a space for programming, innovators, artists, education, & training (welding, glass blowing, pottery, 3D printing).
Kootasca
$1,373,737
Greater MN; Grand Rapids
Renovation of a vacated elementary school to create an early childhood hub.
LEDC*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; St. Paul
The purchase of Plaza Del Sol building for commercial and business opportunities for Latino community.
Lower Sioux*
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Morton
Construct a campus to house the hemp farming, hemp processing, and home building facilities.
Masjed
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Rochester
The purchase and renovation of a building to provide training and job placement for bus driving, childcare provider, home health aide, and IT/coding.
MIGIZI
$921,486
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Renovation and construction of an addition to the existing space for services to youth such as career training programs.
Mille Lacs
$536,970
Greater MN; Onamia
The purchase and renovation of a building to open a childcare facility.
Osseo
$190,000
Metro Area; Brooklyn Center
Renovation of the ABE front office at the primary NW Family Service Center adding space for workforce training.
PICA*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Renovation of existing Training Center facility, including expanding existing Lab School and provide space for workforce development programs, and staff/community training.
Ridgewater*
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Wilmar
Construction to expand the existing space to grow the CDL training program by creating a 300'x200' truck driving training range
Somali Community Resettlement
$1,500,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
The purchase of a new building in South Minneapolis to expand workforce development and Economic Development services in South Minneapolis.
The following measures through 12/31/2022:
Grantee
Amount Awarded
Geographical Area
Project Timeline
Program Activities Upon Completion
Access North
$123,071
Greater MN; Hibbing
Completed 10/2023
Construct a carpentry shop to support seniors and people with disabilities stay in their homes.
ACER*
$921,486
Metro Area; Brooklyn Park
Grant agreement not yet in place
Purchased spaced to create Futures Entrepreneurship & Career Centers in Brooklyn Center and work with current tenants to improve store space.
CLUES*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; St. Paul
Grant agreement not yet in place
Purchase and renovate space to create Early Childcare Center, food pantry, and increase behavioral health services.
Ecolibrium3
$843,250
Greater MN; Duluth
To be completed 12/2024
Renovation of properties to provide neighborhood resource hub, small footprint grocery & experiential STEM lab at the children's museum.
Emerge
$610,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
To be completed 6/2024
Expansion of the current facility to increase access to WFD services, employment preparation, job placement and job skills for people returning from incarceration.
Itasca
$1,080,000
Greater MN; Itasca
Completed 9/2023
Construct "The Forge", a space for programming, innovators, artists, education, & training (welding, glass blowing, pottery, 3D printing).
Kootasca
$1,373,737
Greater MN; Grand Rapids
Completed 12/2023
Renovation of a vacated elementary school to create an early childhood hub.
LEDC*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; St. Paul
Grant agreement not yet in place
The purchase of Plaza Del Sol building for commercial and business opportunities for Latino community.
Lower Sioux
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Morton
To be completed 3/2024
Construct a campus to house the hemp farming, hemp processing, and home building facilities.
Masjed
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Rochester
To be completed 12/2025
The purchase and renovation of a building to provide training and job placement for bus driving, childcare provider, home health aide, and IT/coding.
MIGIZI
$921,486
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Completed 8/2023
Renovation and construction of an addition to the existing space for services to youth such as career training programs.
Mille Lacs
$536,970
Greater MN; Onamia
Completed 9/2023
The purchase and renovation of a building to open a childcare facility.
Osseo
$190,000
Metro Area; Brooklyn Center
Completed 12/2023
Renovation of the ABE front office at the primary NW Family Service Center adding space for workforce training.
PICA*
$1,500,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Grant agreement not yet in place
Renovation of existing Training Center facility, including expanding existing Lab School and provide space for workforce development programs, and staff/community training.
Ridgewater
$1,500,000
Greater MN; Wilmar
To be completed 12/2025
Construction to expand the existing space to grow the CDL training program by creating a 300'x200' truck driving training range
Somali Comm Resettlement
$1,500,000
Metro Area; Minneapolis
Completed 10/2022
The purchase of a new building in South Minneapolis to expand workforce development and Economic Development services in South Minneapolis.
The Trade Adjustment Assistance program assists laid-off workers in returning to the workforce as quickly as possible by offering them help with work searches, relocation, job training, and weekly cash benefits. There are two major components, separately funded by the U.S. Department of Labor: Trade Readjustment Allowances (TRA), which are special extensions to unemployment insurance; and Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) which includes reimbursement of training costs, job search allowances, relocation allowances, and similar costs.
Customers and Services
The program is available to workers who lose their jobs, hours, or income as a result of increased foreign trade activity. The U.S. Department of Labor must certify a petition for a given layoff site. Qualifying participants from certified sites are able to access TAA and TRA services.
Trade Adjustment Assistance staff host in-person informational sessions for people who become eligible for the program. Due to the pandemic, TAA could not continue these valuable meetings. As an alternative, TAA staff recorded videos of the sessions and posted the videos online for customers to watch at their convenience. The lack of in-person sessions likely contributed to the lower enrollments this past year.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total number of workers accessing TAA benefits
709
835
631
386
164
Number of workers enrolled in TAA training
559
421
303
257
124
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
17.9%
23.4%
23.3%
23.1%
24.4%
Individuals with Disabilities
3.0%
3.7%
3.1%
2.8%
1.8%
Veterans
6.1%
4.7%
4.4%
3.4%
3.7%
Women
39.6%
40.6%
37.2%
33.4%
32.3%
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Federal Funds*
$12.2M
$12.3M
$13.1M
$6.9M
$2.65M
*Although this report references SFY, the TAA program runs on a Federal Fiscal Year.
This Transportation Economic Development Infrastructure program assists communities with transportation system improvements and public infrastructure necessary for new and existing businesses to create and retain jobs and increase the tax base. The program fosters interagency coordination with the Department of Transportation and their Transportation Economic Development Program.
Customers and Services
Cities, counties, and other local governmental units receive grants for highway and street projects and other public infrastructure projects supporting the creation of new or expanding businesses.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of projects
0
3
0
0
0
Dollars funded
$0
$3.1M
$0
$2.9M
$0
Number of jobs created & retained
0
563
0
8,663
0
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The intended customer of this program is not a business, therefore, no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or women - is available.
The Unemployment Insurance (UI) program provides a temporary, partial wage replacement to workers who become unemployed through no fault of their own. It is a stabilizer during economic downturns and helps maintain an available, skilled workforce.
UI benefits may be up to 50% of a worker’s average weekly wage, subject to a state maximum (currently $890). Applicants may receive a maximum of 26 weeks in benefits.
Customers and Services
Our primary customers are the applicants who apply for benefits and employers who are subject to the Minnesota UI law.
Applicants: We determine eligibility for benefits; make weekly benefit payments to eligible applicants; and make referrals for job-seeking assistance, job training, or other help. In fiscal year 2023, the UI program paid approximately $969 million in benefits to 149,898 individuals. $968 million of these payments were made under the regular, state UI program. $471 million was under the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program and federally funded, extended benefits. Another $590 million was paid under federally funded, supplemental benefits programs.
Employers: We determine if employers are subject to the law; collect revenues; and audit employer and applicant accounts to ensure proper payments are made. The UI Program is based on an insurance model, with employer "premiums" (tax rates) determined by their history of layoffs; those with more layoffs have a higher tax rate. In fiscal 2023, we collected and processed wage information and tax payments each quarter from over 154,000 employers.
Appeals: In addition to the services described above, we provide impartial due process hearings for applicants and employers who wish to appeal initial determinations.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Timely first payments of benefits
92.0%
79.7%
81.6%
85.9%
88.9%
Appeal decisions made (from hearing to decision) within 30 days
76.6%
90.82%
59.7%
88.5%
88.7%
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Federal Funds*
$43.54M
$51.6M
$55.1M
$59.4M
$65.6M
*Benefit payments are excluded. Reflects pandemic era funding related to increased workload.
Veterans Program - Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG)
Purpose
The Minnesota Veterans Employment Program is funded by the United States Department of Labor – Veterans Employment and Training Service (DOL - VETS) Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG). The purpose of the program is to provide employment services to eligible U.S. military veterans, spouses, and caregivers and support Minnesota businesses in recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans.
Customers and Services
Primary customers are Minnesota businesses and Minnesota veterans of all service eras, and all ages - including the Minnesota National Guard and Reserves who meet the state statute definition of an eligible veteran. Services are delivered primarily through CareerForce.
Disabled Veteran Outreach Program (DVOP) staff provide individualized career services that include job-readiness assessment, job search strategy, and placement assistance to eligible veterans. In addition, Local Veteran Employment Representative (LVER) staff conduct outreach to businesses to develop job opportunities for veterans, provide assistance and guidance to CareerForce staff and partners on veterans programs and benefits, and educate Minnesota businesses on the values veterans bring to a business. Funded by the Jobs for Veterans State Grant (JVSG) from the Department of Labor - Veterans Employment and Training Service, the program goal is to provide seamless and high-quality career search resources through one-to-one counseling and support to eligible service members via CareerForce locations.
Characteristics of Veterans receiving case management and individualized career services:
60% were between the ages of 25 and 49.
48% had a disability which is a barrier to employment.
17% were female.
18% were from a community of color or were Indigenous.
18% were ex-offenders.
12% were homeless.
19% had a high school diploma/GED.
44% had a bachelor's degree or higher.
55% were unemployed coming into the program.
How well did we do it?
80% of Veterans receiving case-managed services in State Fiscal Year 2023 successfully exited.
The average wage at exit was $27.56 per hour.
This is over $10.74 per hour more than the average cost of living for a single adult in Minnesota.
This is over $8.10 per hour more than the average cost of living for a typical Minnesota family.
Compared to the state population of Veterans, we provided case-managed services to:
Over twice as many Veterans were women (17% program versus 7% of the Vet population).
Over twice as many Veterans from communities of color or Indigenous populations (18% program versus 8% of the Vet population).
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number receiving case managed services
702
703
585
510
503
Percentage with a successful exit
87%
86%
89%
84%
80%
Average wage at exit
$20.88
$22.18
$24.03
$26.87
$27.65
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
The Vocational Rehabilitation program assists Minnesotans with significant disabilities to secure and maintain employment.
Customers and Services
Customers are people whose disabilities cause serious functional limitations in life, specifically in achieving an employment goal. Nearly 400 vocational rehabilitation (VR) counselors, placement counselors, VR specialists, VR representatives, and VR technicians work within CareerForce to deliver services that include: assessment, vocational evaluation, training, rehabilitation counseling, assistive technology, and job placement. Some customers may also receive post-employment assistance. Many of these services are delivered through collaborative partnerships between public and private providers.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
New participants accepted for service
6,322
5,410
4,036
5,135
5,216
New employment plans
5,416
4,754
3,395
4,296
4,601
Participants completing an employment plan and attaining employment
2,605
2,290
1,505
1,935
1,873
Participating employers
1,908
1,641
1,077
1,385
1,345
Year-end active caseload
10,254
9,680
8,989
8,318
8,380
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. As such, programs may target their services to groups of Minnesotans. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Women in High-Wage, High-Demand Nontraditional Jobs Grant Program
Purpose
This Women in High-Wage, High Demand Nontraditional Jobs Grant program seeks to increase the number of women in high-wage, high-demand, nontraditional occupations including but not limited to those in the skilled trades, science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) occupations.
Customers and Services
Grant funds serve women, especially low-income women, and women over 50 years of age. Services include the recruitment, preparation, placement, and retention of women in registered apprenticeships, secondary or postsecondary education programs, on-the-job training, and permanent employment in high-wage, high-demand, nontraditional occupations; best practices that stimulate interest and awareness about high-wage, high-demand, nontraditional occupations and related education and training opportunities; training and other staff development for job counselors; incentives for employers and sponsors of registered apprenticeship programs to retain women in high-wage, high-demand, nontraditional occupations.
Grant funds also serve girls to increase interest in and awareness about opportunities in high-wage, high-demand, nontraditional occupations and to increase access to secondary programming that may lead to those occupations, including: mentoring, internships, or apprenticeships.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022*
SFY 2023
Number of participants
144
177
175
87
282
Number of participants enrolled in training
61
143
136
53
162
Total exited attaining a credential
30
64
41
45
110
Total exit to unsubsidized employment
62
32
34
20
69
Percentage employed first quarter after exit
90%
56%
54%
70%
NA
NA=data not available
*Due to pandemic, most SFY 2021 grants were extended to 12/31/2022. Data reflected here is through 9/30/2022.
NOTE: Outcomes disaggregated by target populations are available on DEED's website.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit program provides a federal tax credit to private-sector employers and 501(c) nonprofit organizations, as an incentive for hiring members of targeted groups who traditionally have difficulty finding jobs.
Customers and Services
Primary customers are Minnesota employers interested in hiring targeted job seekers, and the targeted job seekers themselves. Targeted groups include recipients of the Minnesota Family Investment Program; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients between ages 18 and not-yet-40; veterans receiving SNAP; disabled veterans; unemployed veterans; ex-felons; people between ages 18 and not-yet-40 living in a Rural Renewal County; Vocational Rehabilitation recipients; Supplemental Security Income recipients; and Qualified Long-Term Unemployment recipients.
DEED provides program information to job seekers, employers, and agencies that serve these targeted job seekers; and certifies employer applications.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number of tax credit applications processed
71,698
61,698
86,350
88,884
68,884
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. The Work Opportunities Tax Credit Programs serves all businesses who requests their services; data on businesses who submit tax credit applications for employing veterans are tracked.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult Program
Purpose
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Adult program provides employment and training assistance to adults to increase their employment retention, earnings, and occupational skill attainment.
Customers and Services
The program serves adults who are seeking greater participation in the labor force and prioritizes individuals who receive public assistance, individuals living with low incomes, are basic skills deficient, and veterans. Services can include a preliminary assessment of skill levels, support services, occupational or on-the-job training, job search and placement assistance, and career counseling. It also provides resource libraries providing access to employment-related services such as current job vacancies via MinnesotaWorks.net, local education and training service providers, and labor market information.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
WIOA Based Performance Indicators
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Number served
1,547
1,692
1,511
1,660
1,790
2nd Quarter employment rate
82.9%
82.5%
74.0%
69.7%
77.7%
4th Quarter Employment rate
82.4%
79.0%
71.9%
67.8%
74/7%
Median Earnings (2nd Quarter)
$7,680
$7,819
$8,232
$8,758
$9,464
Credential rate
79.8%
75.7%
77.1%
72.2%
76.0%
Measurable Skill Gains (baseline measure)
59.6%
56.2%
69.2%
68.0%
74.5%
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
Demographic
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Communities of Color
39.1%
41.6%
41.6%
49.6%
51.2%
Individuals with Disabilities
13.3%
14.4%
14.0%
13.6%
18.1%
Veterans
3.4%
2.5%
2.0%
2.2%
2.3%
Women
61.0%
59.9%
39.8%
60.8%
59.0%
Funding Source and Allocation
Funding Source
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Federal Funds
$6.2M
$7.6M
$6.9M
$9.1M
$8.7M
Statutory Authority
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (Public Law 113-128)
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Formula Grant Program
Purpose
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Youth Formula Grant program provides comprehensive employment and training services to opportunity youth, including (but not limited to) work-based learning, an introduction to career pathways, attainment of recognized credentials and support services.
Customers and Services
Participants are at-risk youth ages 16-24 who are not attending any school, and in-school youth ages 14-21 who are low-income and at-risk. Youth served include those with a disability (40%); public assistance recipients (31%); system-involved youth - foster youth or juvenile offenders (15%); homeless or runaway youth (16%); and youth of color (76%). Services are provided through local Workforce Development Boards and Youth Committees and include: tutoring, study skills training, and dropout recovery and prevention; alternative secondary school services; paid and unpaid work experiences; occupational skill training; education offered with workforce preparation activities and training; leadership development activities; supportive services; adult mentoring; follow-up services; comprehensive guidance and counseling; financial literacy education; entrepreneurial skills training; labor market and employment information about in-demand industry sectors/occupations; and activities helping youth prepare for and transition to post-secondary education and training.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Plan
Actual
Plan
Actual
Plan
Actual
Plan
Actual
Plan
Actual
Number Served
-
2,305
-
2,561
-
2,422
-
2,476
-
2,451
Employment Education or Placement Rate - 2nd Quarter after Exit
66.0%
79.5%
67.0%
79.4%
76.0%
67.5%
75.0%
68.8%
68%
75.5%
Employment Education or Placement Rate - 4th Quarter after Exit
62.5%
76.5%
62.5%
79.6%
74.0%
70.7%
73.0%
71.4%
69%
76.5%
Credential Attainment within 4 Quarters after Exit
47.7%
65.9%
47.7%
65.9%
62.5%
53.2%
62.0%
63.5%
62%
52.8%
Median Earnings - 2nd Quarter after Exit
Not Negotiated
NA
Not Negotiated
NA
$3,700
$4,872
$3,700
$4,542
$4,000
$5,440
Measurable Skills Gain
Not Negotiated
45.6%
Not Negotiated
50.8%
49.0%
49.0%
49.0%
42.9%
41%
56%
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
To best serve Minnesota businesses, the Department of Employment and Economic Development provides many resources through the Regional Workforce Strategy Consultant team, assigned to the 6 Workforce Development Areas of Minnesota. The Workforce Strategy Consultants have developed innovative workforce solutions by aligning resources, facilitating collaboration, convening business leaders, and leveraging expertise in targeted industry sectors that drive economic equity and growth. The Workforce Strategy Consultants team is housed on the “Economic Development” side of the agency at DEED, which is intended to help create more alignment with programming and efforts to attract and support businesses that typically exist “outside” of the WIOA/federally funded workforce system of states. Their regional work is highly successful due to their strong collaboration with local workforce areas, education partners, non-profit organizations and with DEED's regional Business Development Managers, Layoff Aversion (Rapid Response) Specialists, Veteran's Representatives, Vocational Rehabilitation and Labor Market Analysts which enhance economic prosperity while assisting key stakeholders in the successful implementation of the regional plans.
Customers and Services
WSCs provides individual business consultations in the development and execution of short-term and long-term workforce strategies at no cost to employers. They help to develop and connect employers to talent attraction and retention resources including grants, virtual job fairs, online job banks, labor market information, skills assessment, tax credit, and facilitate innovative strategies including business-led industry sector partnerships. WSCs offer customized recruitment and retention strategies and assist with connections to training providers and grant opportunities. In coordination with the state Rapid Response team, WSCs work in partnership to offer business retention and layoff aversion services. They also provide referrals to local, regional, and national resources to address additional business needs.
In 2019, the WSC's transitioned from the DEED's Employment and Training Program division in Workforce Development into DEED's Economic Development division. This effort created a stronger alignment and connection for businesses who needed skilled talent for their business expansion and retention efforts. The enhanced alignment created a direct connection with economic development and with the workforce services and programs provided to the career seekers. This transition has allowed the WSC's to engage directly with employers during business attraction, expansion and retention efforts. The new alignment helps workforce development professionals with a better understanding of business workforce and talent pipeline needs, and allows for the strong Career Pathway development.
In addition to serving employers one-on-one through a robust consultation process, the Workforce Strategy Consultant team provides workforce solutions and best practices to any employer across the state through a monthly webinar series. These Workforce Wednesday sessions share resources on how to engage and connect to under-represented talent pools, develop recruiting strategies based on data, and connect to a wide variety of education and partner resources available throughout the state.
This team also invests time and resources into developing business led sector partnerships and coordinated statewide efforts focused on educating employers on a variety of talent pools, developing strategies to upskill, reskill, and then connect employers to these talent pools while also ensuring strategies are in place to create a workplace that will retain this talent. Such partnerships include: the Diversity in Manufacturing Initiative (DiMi,) Minnesota Indigenous Workforce Initiative (MIWI,) and collaborations with other state agencies to create coordinated workforce and education strategies for the second chance workforce and our immigrant, refugee, and asylee workforce aligning to emerging and high growth sectors leading to family sustaining wages.
The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has formed internal and external committees, led by the Workforce Strategy Consultants, to streamline employer services in which to improve collaboration and communications internally and externally with our business customers and will increase employer engagement and the number of employers served in the workforce system while also streamlining the WIOA reporting, data collection, and employer survey processes. These meetings focus on reviewing workforce strategies and identifying current and future education needs based on emerging sectors and business growth, to best support employers and empower regional and economic growth.
Other Initiatives include:
CHIPS Workforce Coalition
Governor's Workforce Development Board: Drive for Five Sector Partnerships
Minnesota Indigenous Workforce Initiative
Diversity in Manufacturing Initiative
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2023
Number of employer consultations
NA
1,478
-
New employer contacts
-
-
1,123
Repeat employer engagements
-
-
7,053
Direct employer engagements
-
-
8,176
New projects
-
-
571
Initial employer consultations
-
-
190
Percentage of consultations with employers with active ED projects
-
-
39%
Workforce Wednesday attendance
-
-
5,006
NOTE: The majority of the regional work done by WSCs is through collaboration and partnerships of key stakeholders addressing Minnesota's workforce challenges. The employer consultation number is reflective of the stakeholder engagement and partnership activities than of individual employer consultations. The work of the Workforce Strategy Consultant is of a transformational nature rather than engaging in transactional activities as had been done prior to SFY 2017.
NA=data not available
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Currently no data on businesses who represent targeted groups - such as communities of color, individuals with disabilities, Veterans, or women - is available.
Funding Source and Allocation
This program does not receive a direct allocation. It is funded by federal Wagner-Peyser Act, which is already reported on the Job Service summary.
Statutory Authority
Wagner-Peyser Act of 1933, as amended by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
The Youth at Work Equity Grants provides workforce development and training opportunities to economically disadvantaged or at-risk youth with special consideration to youth from communities of color and youth with disabilities.
Customers and Services
Experiential learning opportunities for economically disadvantaged or at-risk youth, ages 14 through 24; promotes mastery of work readiness competencies and 21st Century skills; promotes skill acquisition (academic and work readiness) through project-based instruction; increases exposure to in-demand jobs important to regional economies; and provides high-quality worksites and overall participant and employer satisfaction. 77% of youth served are youth of color, 52% are young women, 67% are public assistance recipients, and 15% are youth with disabilities in the Youth at Work Competitive Grant program. Services include youth applying and connecting classroom skills to work-based settings; exposing youth to work settings that offer direct employer or supervisor feedback; and youth engagement while exploring interests and abilities. The program's experiential learning is offered through internships, project-based learning, career planning, service learning, and work experience. Frequently, in-school youth have the ability to earn academic credit for experiential learning opportunities which helps to keep youth on track to graduate high school.
Measures
Reporting period is state fiscal year (SFY), July 1 - June 30
Measure
SFY 2019
SFY 2020
SFY 2021
SFY 2022
SFY 2023
Total youth served in experiential learning
10,931
6,844
7,089
11,770
10,020
Received individualized case-management services, education, and job training activities
4,718
3,261
2,894
5,159
6,382
Received group career planning, job search, college or post-secondary guidance on jobs important to regional economies
6,213
5,510
5,327
6,611
3,638
Attained work readiness and/or education goals
54%
-
-
79%
67%
Attained work readiness and/or education goals, and/or received academic credit or service-learning credit for program participation
-
67%/52%*
57%**
-
-
Obtained high school diploma, GED, remained in school, obtained a certificate or degree, or dropout – returned to school
29%
47%
48%
61%
47%
Customer satisfaction: youth rate experience as excellent or very good
88%
NA***
NA***
NA
96%
*SFY 2020 data reports each goal separately. Previously it had been a combined measure. Includes academic and/or service-learning credit measure.
**SFY 2021 data reports the outcomes as one unit of measure.
***Collection of customer satisfaction data was significantly hindered by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Achieving Equity
DEED is working to address disparities and achieve economic equity for all Minnesotans by identifying and breaking down barriers to employment and business opportunities. Data on the populations served are valuable for program development and policy decisions. Figures below represent the percentage of those targeted populations served in the program.
