Getting high quality business development assistance at the right time is critical for the success of entrepreneurs and small businesses. I believe the state’s commitment to providing this assistance is one reason Minnesota ranks third in the nation in five-year business survival. 

Another way we can assist in economic development is through grants to help communities address shortages in child care. As a father of two toddlers myself, I understand how a lack of quality care impacts not only the parents who need it in order to work, but also the businesses that desperately need workers and want to employ them. 

We’re focused on supporting the economic success of Minnesota individuals, businesses and communities by providing opportunities for growth and by helping address the state’s shortage of child care. 

To this end, DEED is accepting requests for proposals (RFPs) from qualified organizations across the state for our business development competitive grants and child care economic development grants.   

Informational webinars will be available, and RFPs are posted on the DEED website along with additional information and forms. Applicants must submit their proposals to DEED according to the RFP. We’ll be posting responses to frequently asked questions about theses grant programs and updating them weekly on DEED’s contract opportunities page. 

Here’s a bit more on each program:

Business Development Competitive Grants 

This economic development grant program supports the start-up, growth and success of Minnesota’s entrepreneurs and small business owners through professional business development and technical assistance services. DEED is seeking proposals from nonprofit organizations and public entities with experience and success in providing business development assistance and services to entrepreneurs and small businesses. The grant program may provide up to $200,000 per year, or $400,000 during the biennium. Proposals are actively encouraged from organizations that serve targeted populations.  

Deadline: Applications must be received at DEED by 4 p.m., Thurs., July 18, 2019. 
Technical assistance webinar: 2 p.m., Thurs., June 20, 2019. 

Child Care Economic Development Grants  

This economic development grant program seeks to help address the state’s shortage of child care services. DEED is seeking proposals from local government units or nonprofits with experience in one or more of these areas: operations, financing, advocacy, or advancement of the delivery of child care services. Grant funding is to be used to implement solutions to reduce the child care shortage in the state. The grant program may provide up to $100,000 per award.

Deadline: Applications must be received at DEED by 4 p.m., Fri., July 26, 2019.
Informational webinar or meeting information: 2 p.m., Thurs., June 27, 2019.

We look forward to your submissions!

Commissioner Steve Grove