Community Programs
This is the state’s primary hub for startups. They offer "Innovation Grants" for tech-focused companies and connect you with regional hubs all over MN.
Zalez Group is not affiliated with these group but recognizes their benefit to the community.
The largest statewide startup competition in the country. It’s free to enter, you don't have to give up any equity, and they give away over $400k in seed money every year.
A fantastic resource that provides loans, business training, and a huge community specifically for women (and men) looking to launch or grow.
Focused specifically on minority entrepreneurs. They offer business consulting, help with government contracts, and access to capital.
If you are in Greater Minnesota (outside the Twin Cities), this program is huge. They give emerging leaders $30,000 a year for two years plus a mentor to build a social enterprise.
Neighborhood Development Center provides the tools and resources entrepreneurs need to help realize their dreams.
Minnesota's Small Businesses
We understand that small businesses are vital to the local economy, with firms under 50 employees supporting over one million workers and paying $53.7 billion in annual wages. However, net job creation for small businesses has dropped significantly in recent years, falling from over 21,000 annually to fewer than 5,800 (MN Chamber, 2025). Consulting can help these firms navigate impact of rising costs, which 44% of small businesses cited as a significant burden compared to only 36% of larger corporations.
Latino Focused Community Programs
They act as a community bank to give you loans when traditional banks won't, plus they offer Spanish-language business classes.
Zalez Group is not affiliated with these group but recognizes their benefit to the community.
The "launchpad." They specialize in helping first-time owners with the basics, like getting an EIN (Tax ID), registering your business, and getting licenses.
Go here to network with other owners, get your minority-owned business certification, and find corporate partnerships.
HACER
They provide data-backed tools and specific workshops designed to help Latina entrepreneurs move from a "side hustle" to a formal, registered company.
Minnesota's Small Businesses
We understand that small businesses are vital to the local economy, with firms under 50 employees supporting over one million workers and paying $53.7 billion in annual wages. However, net job creation for small businesses has dropped significantly in recent years, falling from over 21,000 annually to fewer than 5,800 (MN Chamber, 2025). Consulting can help these firms navigate impact of rising costs, which 44% of small businesses cited as a significant burden compared to only 36% of larger corporations.