POSITIONED FOR GROWTH.

Aitkin County Economic Development Department

Ross Wagner

Economic Development Coordinator

218-927-7305

http://www.co.aitkin.mn.us

Aitkin County (pop. 15,301) is strategically located between the northern Minnesota urban centers of Brainerd, Grand Rapids and Duluth. Its largest industries are tourism, forest products and agriculture, but there is a growing base of metal fabrication and other manufacturing. The county has excellent public schools, well-developed transportation systems, and modern community health care facilities. Long famous for its recreational assets, it boasts an abundance of trails and lakes, including Mille Lacs, one of Minnesota's most popular and prolific fishing destinations. The Mississippi River runs through the county seat. 

The Aitkin County Economic Development Department's goal is to address economic/industrial development of businesses within Aitkin County.

AMFA

LeeAnn Rostberg

877-330-2632

http://www.amfa-mn-wi.org/

Mission Statement: AMFA is member driven organization helping to strengthen and grow the manufacturing and fabrication industries in Northeastern Minnesota and Northwestern Wisconsin.

History: AMFA was formed in 1997 by a grass-roots effort led by a handful of area entrepreneurs who felt the manufacturing industry would benefit from an organized effort to provide networking opportunities, local training and education offerings, joint marketing efforts, group buying, a legislative voice, and more. The founding membership of 11 companies has grown to more than 70 companies today.

Membership meetings: Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month (excluding summer months), with the location typically rotating between Duluth and Hibbing. The meetings feature speakers on topics of interest to manufacturers, manufacturing plant tours, and a chance to network with industry peers. The association also produces a monthly newsletter, the Shoptalk.

Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency

Harlan Tardy

Executive Director

218-749-2912

http://www.aeoa.org/

AEOA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and established as a Community Action Program (CAP) for the northeast Minnesota counties of St. Louis, Lake, and Cook. Service delivery for some programs has extended to the four neighboring counties of Aitkin, Carlton, Itasca, and Koochiching.

AEOA strengthens communities by providing opportunities for people experiencing social and economic challenges.

Arrowhead Regional Development Commission

Pat Henderson

Executive Director

218-722-5545

http://www.ardc.org/

The Arrowhead Regional Development Commission (ARDC) is a multi-disciplined planning and development organization whose jurisdiction encompasses the Northeast Minnesota counties of Aitkin, Carlton, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis.

The mission of ARDC is to serve the people of the Arrowhead Region by providing local units of government and citizens groups a means to work cooperatively in identifying needs, solving problems and fostering local leadership.

In accordance with the Minnesota Regional Development Act, the Commission serves as an advocate for local governments in Northeast Minnesota, provides leadership in the development of projects that benefit the Arrowhead Region and serves as a catalyst to identify needs and seek solutions to issues of regional significance. This role is especially important with regard to problems and opportunities that are multi-jurisdictional in scope or impact. Throughout its existence, ARDC has developed numerous planning and implementation programs aimed at meeting the needs of the Arrowhead Region.

Bayfield County Economic Development Corporation

Scottie Sandstrom

Executive Director

715-209-4589

http://bayfieldcountyedc.com/

The Bayfield County EDC staff and board work directly with businesses to provide assistance in a wide range of business areas including:

• Business Planning
• Site Selection (Industrial Sites Available)
• Funding Assistance
• Workforce Development 
 
In addition, BCEDC serves as a single point of contact for referrals to local, regional and nationwide business resources.

BioBusiness Alliance of MN

Dale Wahlstrom

President & CEO

952.746.3847

http://www.biobusinessalliance.org/

The BioBusiness Alliance of Minnesota is an organization of people representing Minnesota companies, academia, and government, devoted to:

    1) building the bioscience industry, 


    2) retaining and creating jobs, and 


    3) positioning Minnesota as a global leader in biobusiness 
        with the ultimate goal of improving economic, health, 
        social, and environmental well-being.

Blandin Foundation

Bernadine Joselyn

Director of Public Policy

218-326-0523

http://www.blandinfoundation.org/

Blandin Foundation is a private foundation based in Grand Rapids, Minnesota USA and is the state's largest rural-based and rural-focused foundation. It was founded in 1941 by Charles K. Blandin and as of Dec. 31, 2009, leveraged the proceeds from a trust of more than $386 million.

The Blandin Foundation mission is to strengthen communities in rural Minnesota, especially the Grand Rapids area, with the vision of healthy rural communities grounded in strong economies where the burdens and benefits are widely shared.

To do this, the Blandin Foundation engages in three types of work: grant-making, community leadership development and public policy programs.

Bois Forte Band of Chippewa

Andy Datko

Director

218-757-3261

http://www.boisforte.com/

Businesses owned by the Bois Forte Band are managed by the Bois Forte Development Corporation (BFDC). The two primary goals of BFDC are to generate revenue to fund programs and services for Band members and to build businesses that create employment and career opportunities for Band members and residents of our neighboring communities.

BTEC

Kyle Gibeault

Executive Director

202.596.3974

http://www.biomassthermal.org/

The Biomass Thermal Energy Council is a non-profit association dedicated to advancing the use of biomass for heat and other thermal energy applications.

The Biomass Thermal Energy Council (BTEC) is an association of biomass fuel producers, appliance manufacturers and distributors, supply chain companies and non-profit organizations that view biomass thermal energy as a renewable, responsible, clean and energy-efficient pathway to meeting America’s energy needs. BTEC engages in research, education, and public advocacy for the fast growing biomass thermal energy industry.

Carlton County

Pat Oman

Economic Development Director

218-384-4281

http://www.co.carlton.mn.us

 Carlton County Economic Development provides assistance to local governments and private business on economic development initiatives including loan and grant administration; business recruitment and expansion; strategic planning, land use planning and development; and prospect marketing.

City of Cohasset

Susan Harper

City Administrator

218-328-6225

http://www.cohasset-mn.com

Cohasset, with a population of 2624, offers affordable small town living in the beautiful setting of rural Northeast Minnesota. The City of Cohasset provides essential services, such as municipal sewer, water, natural gas and fire protection. Our swimming beach, boat access and Portage Park are incomparable. Situated only five miles from Grand Rapids, Minnesota, Cohasset is a progressive and thriving community.

Cohasset community leaders are proactive in their efforts to recruit new industry to the area. City officials work together to provide incentives to sound business projects. For additional information, our comprehensive plan is available on line, as is information about our industrial park.

Cohasset is home to Minnesota Power, one of Minnesota's largest electrical production operations. MP provides employment opportunities for hundreds of area residents and continues to have a major impact on the regional economy.

The companies listed on our local business webpage are excellent examples of industry operating successfully in the rural sectors of Minnesota and the kind of success other companies may find in Cohasset. Cohasset is situated on a major four lane highway, U.S. # 2, and offers opportunities for development on a large amount of available land near this corridor.

Cohasset is a community where opportunity for business success and outstanding family living come together on beautiful lakes and forests. Located at the edge of the Chippewa National Forest we have an activity that is just right for you.

City of Duluth

Brian Hanson

Director of Business & Community Development

218-730-5310

http://www.duluthmn.gov/business_development/

The City of Duluth's Business and Community Development Department combines the resources of three inter-related citizen, community and business support divisions in one department. We provide community information and referral services, technical and financial resources, and one on one guidance to help support prosperity and growth in Duluth.

City of Silver Bay

Lana Fralich

City Administrator

218-226-4408

http://www.silverbay.com

The City of Silver Bay is located in Lake County, Minnesota, on the scenic North Shore of Lake Superior approximately 56 miles northeast of Duluth, MN on US Highway 61. The community, which was originally built by Reserve Mining Company for the employees in its taconite processing plant, was incorporated in 1956 and has approximately 2000 residents. Silver Bay, the newest community on the North Shore, lies three miles northeast of Beaver Bay, the oldest community on the North Shore.

Come visit our picturesque community situated in a beautiful valley. Of special noteworthiness are our summer hiking trails and our winter cross country skiing and well-groomed snowmobile trails. Our scenic, challenging nine hole public golf course with four river crossings is one of the best in the state. Our progressive technology oriented public library provides a wealth of resources.

Cloquet Area Chamber of Commerce

chamber@cloquet.com

218-879-1551

http://www.cloquet.com

Mission Statement:

To add value to our members by leading, informing and advocating business interests.


BUSINESS RESOURCES

** Business Seminars, Business Forms & Guides, Start-Up Business Guide, Demographic Information, Economic Outlook Info,

** Partnerships - NEMCE, Carlton Chamber, Workforce Development Board, Cloquet Economic Development Partnership, Kiwanis International, Carl Perkins Consortium, Carlton County Historical Society, Minnesota Chamber of Commerce


CONTACTS/NETWORKING

** Quarterly Breakfast, Ribbon Cuttings/Grand Openings/Ground Breaking, Educational Seminars, Workshops, Committee Meetings, LEADERSHIP Cloquet

** Special Events: Home & Business Expo, Annual Golf Outing, Political Forums



ADVERTISING/REFERRALS

** Website membership, directory listing with link, chamber e-PR announcements, monthly chamber newsletter, newspaper advertising and press releases, breakfast & special event sponsorships, referrals from calls and emails to chamber

Cook County Economic Development Authority

Matt Geretschlaeger

Director

218-387-3067

http://www.co.cook.mn.us/index.php/doing-business/eda

Grand Marais is a special place to work and play. The vibrant community, affordable real estate, solid work ethic, low crime rates, low property taxes, minimal traffic congestion, quality schools and a smorgasbord of area activities all combine to make the area your choice for a new or expanded business. Living near the scenic Lake Superior, Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area only provides an additional incentive to live and work here.

Be one of the first to choose an affordable commercially zoned lot in the newly completed Cedar Grove Business Park in Grand Marais, Minnesota. The 80 acre park has a full complement of utilities and hosts 33 lots ranging in size from 1-4 acres. The State of Minnesota has designated the area as a tax-free Job Opportunity Building Zone (JOBZ) for qualifying businesses. The Park is conveniently located on the new Gunflint Trail, within the city limits of Grand Marais with close access to supporting businesses.

Development Association of Superior - Douglas County

Michelle Hostetler

Executive Director

715-392-4749

http://www.developmentassociation.com/

The Development Association, Inc. is a nonprofit 501ã (6) organization. Its mission is to assist with retention, expansion, creation and recruitment of businesses in Superior and Douglas County Wisconsin. Its Board of Directors, consisting of eleven members, is made up of business owners, economic development professionals, bankers and City and County government representatives. These individuals bring a variety of expertise, knowledge and vision to the table. The Development Association has been in existence for 50 years.

Duluth Airport Authority

Brian Ryks

Executive Director

218-727-2968

http://www.duluthairport.com/

We’re here to provide safe, secure, customer friendly, progressive air transportation facilities that serve the traveling public and promote economic growth.

That’s our mission. And if we offer that level of glad-to-see-you service to each person, each time they visit, our goal will be well within reach.

At the Duluth International Airport, we work tirelessly to utilize available resources for the benefit of our greater community. To sustain that effort, we operate as a self-sufficient organization and do not rely upon taxpayer dollars for operational or capital improvements at either Duluth International or Sky Harbor Airport. Our revenues are derived from a number of sources, including airline landing fees and concessions, passenger facility charges, car rental and parking concessions, and various tenant leases. All major decisions are approved by our Board of Directors and implemented by the Duluth Airport Authority staff.

Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce

David Ross

President & CEO

218-722-5501

http://www.duluthchamber.com/

Vision:
We serve as the premier advocate for commerce and industry by facilitating interaction among business, government, education, labor, and the greater community. We actively create innovative opportunities for businesses to advance within a global economy.

Mission:
We serve our members by providing business advocacy, collaborative leadership, and member-driven initiatives.

Duluth Seaway Port Authority

Andy McDonough, PPM, CCIM

Business Development Director

218-727-8525

http://www.duluthport.com/

The Duluth Seaway Port Authority (DSPA) is a public agency created by state statute in 1955 to expand and improve facilities at the Port of Duluth-Superior in anticipation of the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1959. Two years later, with $10 million in public funding, the Port Authority created the 120-acre Clure Public Marine Terminal, the port's only general cargo facility.

The Port of Duluth-Superior is the largest tonnage port on the Great Lakes and continues to rank among the top 20 ports in the U.S., handling an average of 46 million short tons of cargo and hosting more than 1,100 vessel visits each year

Like port authorities and harbor commissions worldwide, the DSPA mission is to generate domestic and international trade, advance regional industrial development, and advocate for maritime industry interests in legislative initiatives.

The Port Authority also owns and manages multiple waterfront properties, including the Clure Public Marine Terminal, Garfield Docks C & D, Erie Pier, and an industrial park near the Duluth International Airport. DSPA operates a designated Foreign Trade Zone at both its terminal and the Airpark.

Operating revenue for the Port Authority is generated through land leases, storage and dockage fees, economic development investments and related financing activities. Additional funding is provided by grants from the state's Port Development Assistance Program, the City of Duluth tax levy, and project specific federal grants. The Duluth Seaway Port Authority operates under Minnesota Statutes 469.048 through 469.068 and 074.

Duluth Sister Cities Int'l

Melissa Kadlec

Executive Director

(218) 727-8375

http://www.duluthmnsistercities.org/

In 1956, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed the people-to-people concept. President Eisenhower thought that relationships fostered in this program would lessen the possibility of future world conflicts. This concept grew and eventually led to the creation of Sister Cities International (SCI). SCI is a nonprofit citizen diplomacy network creating and strengthening partnerships between U.S. and international communities in an effort to increase global cooperation at the municipal level, to promote cultural understanding and to stimulate economic development. SCI leads the movement for local community development and volunteer action by motivating and empowering private citizens, municipal officials and business leaders to conduct long-term programs of mutual benefit.

The Duluth Sister Cities Commission, established in 1986 as a City of Duluth commission broadened its scope in 2007 to become an independent non-profit 501(c)3 organization known as Duluth Sister Cities International. Today, Duluth Sister Cities International continues to expand its relationships with its four Sister Cities: Thunder Bay, Canada; Isumi-shi, Japan; Petrozavodsk, Russia and Växjö, Sweden.

Duluth-Superior Area Community Foundation

Holly C. Sampson

President

218-726-0232

http://www.dsacommunityfoundation.com/

The Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation promotes private giving for the public good.

The Community Foundation is a permanent community endowment, built by gifts from thousands of individuals and organizations.

Guided by a 13-member Board of volunteer civic leaders, the Community Foundation makes grants to nonprofit organizations and to individuals for scholarships and provides leadership on important community initiatives in our area. Since our inception in 1983, we have distributed more than $35 million and currently manage over 300 different funds, each with its own charitable purpose.

In 2010, the Community Foundation approved grants, scholarships, and affiliated scholarships of nearly $2 million to area residents and nonprofit organizations.

The Community Foundation offers donors the opportunity to benefit our community for generations to come, great flexibility, and the most favorable tax benefits allowed under the law.

East Range Joint Powers Board

Curt Antilla

Economic Development Coordinator

218-229-3671

http://www.ci.aurora.mn.us/developement.htm

"Committed to Economic and Community Development on the East Range Since 1984"

Ely Area Development Association

Betsy Leustek

Co-chair & Secretary

218-365-3012

http://www.elymn.org

The Ely Area Development Association (EADA) was originally founded in 1959 with a mission to create, promote, and facilitate economic and community development. The organization's vision is to work cooperatively to create economic opportunity for a stable and diversified economy while maintaining Ely's quality of life.

The EADA is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) corporation with two employed staff and a volunteer 30-member Board of Directors with diverse occupational backgrounds. The daily operations of the organization are overseen and directed by a nine-member Executive Board elected annually from the Board of 30. The Executive Board has an officer board consisting of a chairman, vice-chair, secretary and treasurer.

Eveleth Economic Development Authority

Tiffany Anderson

218-744-7444

http://www.evelethmn.com

Established in May of 1994, the Eveleth Economic Development Authority is governed by a five member board of commissioners to do economic development for the City of Eveleth.

Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa

Amy Wiklund

Economic Development Planner

218-879-4593

http://www.fdlrez.com/

Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Reservation lies in Northeastern Minnesota adjacent to the city of Cloquet, MN, approximately 20 miles west of Duluth, MN. The Fond du Lac Reservation, established by the LaPointe Treaty of 1854, is one of six Reservations inhabited by members of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe.

The Chippewa nation is the second largest ethnic group of Indians in the United States. Archaeologists maintain that ancestors of the present day Chippewa have resided in the Great Lakes area since at least 800 A.D.

German American Chamber

Simone Pohl

President & CEO

312-644-2662

http://www.gaccom.org/en/

The German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACCoM), headquartered in Chicago, was founded in 1963. GACCoM is an integral part of the network of German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs) with 120 offices in 80 countries around the globe. Our continuing mission is to further, promote and assist in the expansion of bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States, especially the Midwest. Our organization combines the elements of a trade commission, a membership association, and a professional consultancy - quite a unique concept in international trade promotion. GACCoM’s territory covers 14 U.S. states: the 13 states of the Midwest (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin) and Colorado, comprising together approximately one quarter of the nation’s geographical area, its population and its GDP. GACCoM’s office which we share with Germany Trade and Invest (GTaI) and FrankfurtRheinMain GmbH is located in the heart of downtown Chicago.

Grand Portage Band of the MN Chippewa

Tod Legarde

Enterprise Administrator

218-475-2277

http://www.grandportage.com

Journey along legendary Highway 61 and take a short run east along Lake Superior to Grand Portage Lodge & Casino. Experience one of Minnesota’s most picturesque areas at The Great Rendezvous Place. Attractions. Relaxation. Excitement. Recreation. There’s something for everyone!

The area's vibrant history of aboriginal culture and the fur trade inspire the decor of Grand Portage Lodge & Casino, which is owned and operated by the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The most northerly of the Great Lakes, Lake Superior has been home to the Ojibwe people for over 500 years. Surrounded by Minnesota's north woods and overlooking the largest freshwater lake in the world, Grand Portage welcomes visitors year round for relaxation or play.

Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

Bud Stone

President

218-326-6619

http://www.grandmn.com/

The Grand Rapids Minnesota Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes you to one of the "100 Best Small Towns in America". A Land of 1,000 Grand Lakes and lush northern Minnesota forests, nothing can surpass the Grand Rapids area's natural beauty. Visitors to the Grand Rapids, Minnesota area have come for generations to enjoy a recreational haven of challenging golf, boating, fishing and a multitude of other activities, creating memories that last a lifetime.

But if you look a little closer, you'll find there's a lot more to the Grand Rapids area than just a popular vacation destination. A strong and diversified economy drives this region from its roots in logging and mining towards a quality of life that just can't be found anywhere else. The Grand Rapids area takes pride in its cultural heritage, community service and its vision for tomorrow.

So, if you're thinking of relocating to our area, or just stopping for a visit, the 1000 Grand Lakes Area invites you to feel at home and see what it has to offer.

Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority

Rob Mattei

Community Development Director

218-326-7622

http://grandrapids.govoffice.com/

Grand Rapids, a community of 11,000 residents with a market draw of more than 75,000 people, is located at the region’s retail trade, health care, education and cultural center.

Grand Rapids is home to UPM Blandin Paper Company, ASV Inc., several state educational and governmental agencies, and is the site of county government operations. In addition to its many business and industrial assets, residents enjoy an enormous number of world-class amenities such as a performing arts center, civic center, a new regional library, recreational facilities and YMCA. A new middle school, and new college campus buildings are recent additions to the community, and a major new health care campus is also underway.

Grand Rapids has a rich history of tourism, forestry and natural resource-based industry. Residents value the high quality of life of the community and the natural beauty of the Mississippi River and the more than 1,000 lakes and waterways in the county.

The Grand Rapids Economic Development Authority (GREDA), supported by the Community Development Department of Grand Rapids, is the official decision making body of the City for matters pertaining to economic development. The GREDA, through its programs and initiatives, takes an active role in attracting new businesses to the community, retaining existing businesses, assisting businesses with expansion, and enabling the rehabilitation and/or redevelopment of areas within the community.

Grow Minnesota!

Bill Blazar

Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and Business Development

(651) 292-4658

http://www.mnchamber.com/

Grow Minnesota!, a subsidiary of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce, is a distinctive private-sector program focused on job retention and creation. It was launched in 2003 on the premise that Minnesota’s existing businesses were not getting enough attention At present, the network has 56 local partners representing chambers of commerce or private-sector economic development organizations.

This economic development initiative distinguishes itself from other public- and private-sector efforts through the nearly 900 confidential conversations conducted annually with business leaders across the state. Annual findings are published each fall. The data provide a pulse of the changing needs of companies in our global economy, and the research enriches the public policy agenda of the Minnesota Chamber.

Grow Minnesota! also prides itself as a problem-solver for your economic development needs. One in seven visits results in some follow-up assistance. With every conversation and call, we are building important bonds between a business and our community and state. We also are increasing the utilization of our state’s great network of people and programs designed to help businesses succeed in Minnesota. We are doing everything we can to help prepare businesses to grow.

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce is the state's largest and premier business advocacy organization. As the statewide voice of business, the Chamber represents more than 2,400 businesses of all types and sizes across Minnesota. The Minnesota Chamber excels at offering private-sector solutions to public-sector problems.

Hermantown Chamber of Commerce

Mike Lundstrom

Executive Director

218-729-6843

http://www.hermantownchamber.com/

Our area is home to many great brand-new and well-established business ventures and organizations that have chosen to call this vibrant community "home." It is a great place to live, work and do business. There is a place for everyone here.

Our membership includes businesses in Hermantown, the Miller Hill Area, Duluth, and other surrounding communities. We are committed to serving the needs of our membership by promoting area business interests and by providing a large number of quality programs and services to help our members and the community prosper.

The mission of the Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce is to promote and energize the business community and enhance opportunities for success.

Hibbing Area Chamber of Commerce

Lory Fedo

President

1-800-4-HIBBING

http://www.hibbing.org

The Hibbing Area Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of the Hibbing area business community and companies doing business on the range. The Chamber is a private, not-for-profit organization. It unites hundreds of businesses and professional firms, thus creating a "unified voice," working to improve business and build a better community. The membership is made up of over 400 businesses interested in prospering and creating a healthy, positive environment in which to conduct business.

Hibbing Economic Development Authority

Duane Northagen

Economic Development Director

218-362-5931

http://www.hibbing.mn.us

The city of Hibbing economic development works toward the expansion, recruitment, and retention of new and existing businesses. There are many the City of Hibbing has to offer including JobZ.

Hibbing also has an active Economic Development Authority (HEDA) which is the City's primary economic development resource creating a positive economic impact on the community through linkage, leverage, funding, research and public/private partnerships.

In Hibbing you will find an atmosphere supportive of business and economic development. There are organizations whose sole purpose is to help new businesses get started and thrive.

You will find a city government that supports business growth in many ways, a well-trained work force, and consumers ready and waiting to do business with you.

Iron Mining Association

Craig Pagel

Executive Director

218-722-7724

http://www.taconite.org/

The IMA promotes an iron ore industry that will provide long-term growth and prosperity for all stakeholders through profitability in a competitive, global market. It pursues that mission through public education and information, working on public policies affecting iron mining and partnering with educational institutions.

IMA members are:

    - active in environment, education and tax policy, 
    - share valuable information and 
    - develop relationships

Together we work to promote a healthy iron mining industry.

Iron Range Economic Alliance

Mike Valentine

Chair

218-834-3384

http://www.ireamn.org/

The mission of the IREA is to create a collaborative environment for economic prosperity in Northeast Minnesota by providing leadership, fostering partnerships and employing professional economic development partnerships.

Iron Range Resources

Tony Sertich

Commissioner

218-735-3000

http://www.ironrangeresources.org/

Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB) is a unique State of Minnesota economic development agency located in Eveleth, Minnesota. As a premier Minnesota economic development agency, our mission is to advance regional growth by stabilizing and enhancing the economy of northeastern Minnesota's Taconite Assistance Area.

Our services include business development consulting and financial assistance in the following areas:

- Business Financing
- Low Interest Business Loans
- Economic Development Grants
- Minnesota Business Opportunities
- Tax-Free Commercial Real Estate

Our Minnesota economic development organization provides a variety of business financing packages. These finance packages give businesses incentive for business development, expansion or relocation in northeastern Minnesota. As part of our economic development mission, financial assistance is also available to foster community readiness for business development.

In addition to encouraging growth in northeastern Minnesota’s core industries, the agency focuses its economic development efforts on projects like those you will see in the Business Success Stories section of this website.

Itasca Eco Industrial Park

Jeff Borling

Director of Itasca Business Development

218-326-9411

http://www.itascadv.org/eco_web/

In addition to several other competitive site options located in and around Grand Rapids, the IEDC is proud to offer an exceptional industrial site featuring 200,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing and distribution space on 223 acres. Formerly used for commercial production of Oriented Strand Board, the site offers excellent potential for redevelopment and/or multitenant use.

Features:

- 223 acres with extensive lay-down areas and/or build-to-suit options
- Existing building space with 30-75’ ceiling heights
- Two (2) 25-ton overhead cranes
- In- and outdoor rail loading capabilities with a BNSF rail spur leading directly into the building
- Eight (8) loading docks with 14’ overhead doors
- Two (2) secured entrances with guard buildings
- Modern truck scale to monitor in- and outbound cargo loads
- Competitively priced, redundant electrical power, with a 4,160-volt substation located on the site
- Permit to draw water from the Mississippi River
- Modern fire suppression system throughout the facility

Itasca Economic Development Corporation

Joe Broking

President & CEO

218-326-9411

http://www.itascadv.org/

Itasca Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) was formed in 1981 as a non-profit corporation and is dedicated to the mission of helping create quality jobs. Primary financial support comes from the Blandin Foundation and Itasca County with additional investment from other public and private partners.

IEDC has a long legacy of success helping local businesses from start-up to major expansion. We are the Itasca area′s "go to" resource for business development, promoting the retention and growth of existing businesses, and attracting new businesses who can flourish in our supportive and competitive environment.

Our seasoned staff, Directors and Strategic Partners have the insights and knowledge to help businesses considering expanding or relocating to the Itasca area

Koochiching Economic Development Authority

Paul Nevanen

Eecutive Director

218-283-8585

http://www.businessupnorth.com/

The Koochiching Economic Development Authority (KEDA) is the development agency for Koochiching County in Minnesota's great North Country. Economic development is about jobs and the KEDA was created to be the point-of-contact to assist and simplify the process of locating a business in Koochiching County or expanding an existing business. The KEDA can assist with site selection and development, finance and incentive options working with other economic development agencies, as well as act as a liaison between the various local units of government to handle all of the details of development.

Laurentian Chamber of Commerce

Jim Currie

Executive Director

218-741-2717

http://www.laurentianchamber.org

The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce represents the cities of Eveleth, Gilbert, Mt. Iron, Virginia, Minnesota and surrounding business communities. The Chamber plays a key role in community partnerships and is an advocate for business development, retention, and expansion.

Visit our website for information on Economical Development Resources (Large and Small Business Consulting. New Business Management, Community Project Assistance, Project loans, Grants, etc.).

The Laurentian Chamber of Commerce is an information and referral center serving businesses as far north as Ely, Duluth in the South, Hibbing in the West and Lutsen in the east.

May through September visitor and tourist information can be obtained by visiting our trained Travel Counselors at Mineview in the Sky Travel Information Center on Highway 53 - South of Virginia.

LifeScience Alley

Dale Wahlstrom

President & CEO

(952) 542-3077

https://www.lifesciencealley.org/

LifeScience Alley is a 501(c)6 non-profit trade association serving the life sciences in Minnesota and the surrounding region. Our mission: Enabling business success in the life sciences. We accomplish this goal through leadership, collaboration, innovation, advocacy, and education.

From human health to animals, food to the environment, and pharmaceuticals to medical devices, our diverse membership helps to improve and sustain well being, in the state of Minnesota and around the world. But ideas don't have borders. That's why LifeScience Alley is currently expanding its influence into Canada, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and the Dakotas, in an effort to strengthen cross-border collaboration in the life sciences.

Our region is rich in talent, resources, and infrastructure. LifeScience Alley works successfully to forge connections among top industry experts so that remarkable new discoveries and advances can be made.

Local Initiatives Support Corporation

Pamela Kramer

Executive Director

212-455-9800

http://www.lisc.org/

For almost three decades, LISC has connected local organizations and community leaders with resources to revitalize neighborhoods and improve quality of life. The LISC model assembles private and public resources and directs it to locally-defined priorities. Our unique structure enables local organizations to access national resources and expertise and our funding partners to leverage their investment and achieve an impact that is truly remarkable.

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) is dedicated to helping community residents transform distressed neighborhoods into healthy and sustainable communities of choice and opportunity — good places to work, do business and raise children. LISC mobilizes corporate, government and philanthropic support to provide local community development organizations with:

- loans, grants and equity investments
- local, statewide and national policy support
- technical and management assistance

Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe

Sam Moose

Community Development Commissioner

320-532-4181

http://www.millelacsband.com

The Mille Lacs Band’s government is based on a separation of powers – similar to the United States government – to help ensure proper checks and balances. The legislative branch, known as the Band Assembly, enacts laws that regulate the Band’s affairs and appropriates money for Band programs and services. The executive branch, led by the Chief Executive, implements Band laws and administers the Band’s programs and services. The judicial branch, or Tribal Court, upholds the Band’s laws and ensures justice is served equally to all Band members. The Band’s tribal government employs approximately 640 people full-time, including 102 people who are employed at the Band’s Nay Ah Shing Schools.

Mining Minnesota

Frank Ongaro

Executive Director

218-728-4516

http://www.miningminnesota.com

The MiningMinnesota initiative seeks to give Minnesotans the facts about non-ferrous mining efforts currently being proposed in our state. Northeastern Minnesota has long been the region’s mining epicenter. Historically, iron mining has provided the residents of northeastern Minnesota with long-term jobs, good wages, and stable communities in which to raise their families.

MN Angel Network

Todd Leonard

Executive Director

952-746-3833

http://www.mnan.org/

Minnesota Angel Network is a public-private partnership developed to provide Minnesota start-up companies and emerging projects with increased access to funding. We provide a secure, focused Web-based portal to facilitate connections between angel investors and companies.

Our network is the result of two years of planning and is supported by a consortium of regional investor networks, Minnesota Initiative Foundations, universities, business leaders and The BioBusiness Alliance of Minnesota.

The Minnesota Angel Network is part of The BioBusiness Alliance of Minnesota's Full Spectrum Funding initiative that is focused on improving the funding environment for start-up companies statewide. The network is modeled after the successful Wisconsin Angel Network with additional features to best support the entrepreneurs and investors in Minnesota. Unique features include a systematic filtering and mentoring process, access to service providers, and a detailed gap analysis to best assess each company's needs. 

    • We are committed to being the catalyst for growth in 
      Minnesota by working exclusively with Minnesota-based 
      companies from all industries. 
    • We will accept investors from anywhere in the world. 
    • The network is not a fund and will not conduct due-
      diligence.

MN Dept of Employment & Economic Development

Heather Rand

Business & Community Development

888.345.4528

http://www.positivelyminnesota.com/

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) is the state’s principal economic development agency.

DEED programs promote business recruitment, expansion, and retention; international trade; workforce development; and community development.

MN Power, An ALLETE Company

Nancy Norr

Manager, Regional Development

218-723-3913

http://www.mnpower.com/econdev/

Minnesota Power has been energizing our region for more than a century, providing reliable, economical energy and private sector leadership in economic development. We have the resources, connections and experience to help eligible companies locate sites and secure capital for expansion and relocation projects in our service area. Contact us for confidential, professional, business development support for projects in Northeast Minnesota, Central Minnesota or Douglas County Wisconsin.

Minnesota Power's Economic Development Program has worked to create or preserve some 5,000 jobs since its inception in 1984. Our business development services and loan programs are available for growth-oriented, energy-intensive businesses served by Minnesota Power or its wholesale customers.

Mission:
Promote regional economic vitality and diversification and enhance corporate citizenship through the attraction, expansion or retention of electric customers.

Northeast Entrepreneur Fund

Mary Mathews

President

218-623-5724

http://www.entrepreneurfund.org/

At the Northeast Entrepreneur Fund, we help an individual take a business idea and transform it into a reality. And after 20 years of serving entrepreneurs, we’re pretty fluent at communicating with them.

Through our consulting and training programs, we help to focus that idea around some business fundamentals— like creating a business plan, understanding cash flows, and developing a sales strategy. Through our loan programs, we may arrange financing to launch the business or purchase equipment or inventory.

But we can also talk about hopes and dreams and visions for the future. The ups and downs of everyday business life. The real language of entrepreneurship.

Northland Connection

Chris Maddy

Director, Marketing/Business Recruitment

218-529-7564

http://www.northlandconnection.com

Northland Connection is a research and analysis team that manages economic development data and a commercial real estate database in support of the region's business expansion activities.

Northland Foundation

Tom Renier

President

218-723-4040

http://www.northlandfdn.org

Created in 1986 by The McKnight Foundation, the Northland Foundation is a regional foundation serving the communities of northeastern Minnesota. Unlike the typical concept of a "foundation" — which is a charitable organization that makes grants to programs from their endowment — the Northland Foundation is unique. We serve our region through:

- a grantmaking program that provides resources to nonprofit organizations in the region;
- an operating program, KIDS PLUS, that is dedicated to improving the well-being of children and youth;
- a business finance program that provides financing to assist small and medium-size businesses;
- an assisted living venture that a provides high-quality, affordable living options to enable older adults to age-in-place in underserved rural communities; and
- other special initiatives.

Like many nonprofit organizations, we raise money to support these program areas. Resources for the Northland Foundation's diverse initiatives are provided through public and private partnerships at the local, state, and national levels. It is our privilege to partner with organizations dedicated to improving northeastern Minnesota's economic vitality and social responsiveness.

Northspan Group Inc.

Randy Lasky

President & CEO

218-529-7561

http://www.northspan.org/

The Northspan Group delivers high quality, professional business development and community development consulting.

Northspan specializes in creative thinking, enterprising strategies, and effective approaches to help businesses, communities, regions, and organizations achieve their development goals and prosper in a global economy.

Our fee-based consulting services include organizational development, strategic planning facilitation, financial packaging, grant writing, loan application preparation, business valuation, succession planning, market research, feasibility studies, proposal development, business financing assistance, loan fund administration, downtown revitalization assistance, technology center and business incubator development, and much more.

The professional staff at Northspan works cooperatively with economic development and community development partners throughout the region to leverage resources for measurable, sustainable results. As a private, nonprofit consulting firm, we work quietly and confidentially to move projects forward on time and on budget.

Pellet Fuels Institute

Don Kaiser

Executive Director

(703) 522-6778

http://pelletheat.org/

The Pellet Fuels Institute is a non-profit association that serves the pellet industry, which is comprised of pellet mills, pellet appliance manufacturers and industry suppliers. The Institute is active in educating consumers about the convenience and practicality of using wood pellet fuel in both residential and commercial applications.

Proctor Economic Development Authority

Erik Madsen

218-624-3641

http://www.ci.proctor.mn.us/

When it comes to history, few Minnesota cities have the rich heritage of Proctor. This city, surrounded by green hills, overflows with a charming ambiance.

Proctor was created in 1892 when the railroad was extending into Duluth and needed large flat areas. The flat plateau proved to be a convenient site as the mining industry reached here in the 1800's. This was due in large part to the development of the railroad and the construction of its iron ore sorting yards. It was the largest such yard in the world. Many see Proctor and its citizens as heroes who worked tirelessly, hauling and sorting the ore needed for steel for World War II and the Korean Conflict.

Green hills ring this village set city, providing a sense of comfort and charm. Originally called White City because of the large number of tents that newly arrived residents used as homes, Proctor was established in the 1800's as part of the development of the railroad, mining and steel industries, Proctor will most likely always be a major transportation center.

In 1894, the village was incorporated as Proctorknott after J. Proctor Knott, a U.S. Congressman from Kentucky who delivered a satirical speech ridiculing Duluth. The name was later shortened to Proctor.

St. Louis County Planning Dept.

Barb Hayden

218-725-5008

http://www.stlouiscountymn.gov

St. Louis County, as a regional leader, has vested interest in a strong tax base and the economic well being of its citizens. The county works in cooperation with communities and regional partners to strengthen the local economy and promote long-term economic vitality.

St. Louis County supports a variety of activities which strengthens the regions infrastructure and contributes to economic growth. The Planning and Community Development Department serves as contact for economic development initiatives seeking county assistance.

Svebio

Gustav Melin

Managing Director

+46 8 441 70 81

http://www.svebio.se

The Swedish Bioenergy Association (Svebio) was founded in 1980, after the oil crisis in 1979. At that time bioenergy accounted for 10 % of the energy supply in Sweden. Bioenergy was not yet commercial and a major part of the bioenergy was used internally in the wood industry. Since that time, bioenergy usage in Sweden has more than doubled, from 48 TWh (173 PJ) in 1980 to 110 TWh (396 PJ) in 2004.

Svebio consists of around 300 members, most of them enterprises active in producing/providing biofuels or using biofuels on a larger scale. Among Svebio´s members there are also manufacturers/providers of burning equipment, machinery for collection and processing of biofuels, consultants, scientists, politicians as well as some private members. The broad spectrum of members has contributed to Svebio´s present position as a trustworthy part among decision-makers. Svebio is playing an active part in all major political decisions concerning bioenergy and bioenergy related matters in Sweden.

Swedish American Chamber of Commerce

Therese Lindé

Executive Director

202-536-1520

http://sacc-usa.org/contact/

SACC-USA is the umbrella organization for 19 regional Swedish-American Chambers of Commerce across the United States. We serve more than 2,300 members in Sweden and the U.S., which makes us the second largest European Chamber of Commerce in the United States.

Our mission is to facilitate and support trade, commerce, and investment between the U.S. and Sweden. We help Swedish companies find the right partners in the USA – and vice versa. By using a wide network and contact generating tools and methods, we ensure that products, services and information are presented in the right way to the right people.

Two Harbors Development Commission

Jason Kuettel

Chair

218-391-7579

http://www.thdc.com/

Two Harbors, on the north shore of Lake Superior, lies in a scenic area of deep forests and rugged shorelines. Ore boats take on iron ore and taconite pellets at the docks in Agate Bay, destined for eastern steel mills. Burlington Bay is preserved for recreational activities. In addition to the area's mineral resources, the forests supply an abundance of timber, large and small game animals, and lakes that provide exciting fishing. The community is active in planning its own future and generously involved with the educational development of its youth.

UMD Center for Economic Development

Elaine Hansen

Executive Director

218-726-7298

http://www.umdced.com/

When it comes to small business, there are no simple ingredients for success. But if you make some key decisions at critical points along the way, you dramatically improve your chances for profitability and longevity. The most important choice you may ever make for your small business is working with the University of Minnesota Duluth Center for Economic Development (UMD CED).

Each year UMD CED works with more than 900 of the 8,500 plus companies in Northeastern Minnesota, facilitating more than $20 million in loans, and assisting in the creation, retention, and stabilization of more than 3,000 jobs.

UMD CED has locations throughout Northeastern Minnesota to provide assistance close to where you live. Help can be as simple as answering a question about compliance over the phone or as comprehensive as having several one-on-one meetings with a counselor to turn your idea into a profitable business. Many of the services are free, and all are aimed at helping you either start a small business or improve your current one.

UMD CED consulting programs provide one-on-one services to business start-ups and existing businesses focusing on feasibility studies, market research, surveys, business plan development, loan packaging, operational assistance, procurement assistance, manufacturing, management, compliance (EPA, OSHA, Revenue and Tax), problem solving, and information technology. Our programs include the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Natural Resources Research Institute (NRRI) Business Group, the 21st Century Arrowhead Initiative, and the Student to Business Initiative.

UMD CED also offers business and computer workshops to businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the region to enhance the knowledge and increase efficiencies of area businesses.

UMD CED provides resources and services to businesses and entrepreneurs through it's electronic newsletter NewsWire, Focus Group Facility, in-house business resource center and on-line website resources.

UMD Natural Resources Research Institute

Michael Lalich

Executive Director

218-720-4294

http://www.nrri.umn.edu/

Marketable products from industrial waste materials... Restoring harvested peatlands to their nutrient-rich, soggy glory… Studying the effects of non-native earthworms on hardwood forests...

These are just a few of the wide variety of projects that helps NRRI meet its mission of fostering economic development of Minnesota’s natural resources in an environmentally sound manner to promote private sector employment.

History:
Back in the early 1980s, Minnesota’s economy—largely dependent on natural resources—was taking a beating. The state was reeling from a domestic steel crisis that left about 13,000 workers unemployed on the Iron Range, and global competition was threatening the state’s logging, pulp, and paper industries. To counteract the blow—and avoid a similar occurrence in the future— a group of researchers, legislators, and community members envisioned building a center that would study the economic impact and sustainability of Minnesota’s minerals, forest products, peat, biomass, and water-related industries.

This vision became a reality. In 1985, the Natural Resources Research Institute opened its doors in an abandoned Air Force building. The 20-foot ceilings and cavernous concrete spaces were filled with science laboratories and industrial-sized equipment.

Today:
Over the past 20-plus years, NRRI has earned the respect of industry leaders, the academic community, and environmental watchdogs. Its reach is felt throughout the state and beyond.

NRRI operates a minerals research laboratory in Coleraine on Minnesota’s Iron Range providing research for mining industries, a diatoms research lab in Ely, Minn., that focuses on water quality issues, and a Fens Research Facility in Zim, Minn., to study peatland restoration.

Minnesota Congressman James Oberstar said of NRRI: “Our state has an abundance of natural resources, and it is our responsibility to protect the environment for future generations, as well as to create new economic opportunities. Through its research, NRRI has been an active participant in revitalizing both areas. It’s truly one of Minnesota’s gems.”

UMD School of Business & Economics

Kjell Knudsen

Dean

218-726-7281

https://lsbe.d.umn.edu/

Mission:
Our mission is to contribute to the intellectual and personal growth and development of individuals to enhance their competence in business and management. We achieve our mission through teaching, intellectual contributions, and service activities. Our primary focus is on undergraduate teaching. We offer high-quality undergraduate programs to students primarily from Minnesota. Additionally, we offer part-time evening and weekend MBA programs to practitioners in selected regions in Minnesota. Our secondary focus is on intellectual contributions. We place primary emphasis on discipline-based intellectual contributions, but also value contributions to teaching and practice. We also provide community, professional, and institutional service and outreach with an emphasis on community service and outreach and the interface of these activities with teaching and intellectual contributions.

Vision:
Our vision is to be recognized as a School with a first-rate faculty that provides rigorous, demanding undergraduate and graduate programs in business and management, as well as quality intellectual contributions and outreach programs. We will achieve this vision by having our faculty, students and staff demonstrate mutual respect for one another and by providing educational opportunities for a diverse student body. Our graduates will promote the School and give back to the School.

Objectives:
The goal of the School is to prepare students to assume responsible positions in business and other organizations. These objectives focus on core skills that are critical to success in one's career, and on knowledge and skill that provide an understanding of the process of management.

Virginia Economic Development Authority

John Tourville

Executive Director

218-748-7535

http://www.virginia-mn.com

The Virginia Economic Development (VEDA) was established in 1995 to promote the area and provide specific information and assistance to new and expanding businesses.

Businesses in Virginia are constantly striving to improve. Working together to expand area business opportunities are local business, industry, finance, labor and governmental groups.

Virginia- Eveleth EDA

Laura Rusich

Executive Director

218-750-4020

http://www.progressparkmn.com/

The Virginia Eveleth Economic Development Authority (VEEDA) was formed in 1994 through a Joint Powers Agreement by which both the cities of Virginia and Eveleth could jointly and cooperatively facilitate economic development.

With the receipt of funds through Iron Range Resources, the Federal Economic Development Authority, the Community Development Block Grant, St. Louis County, and the cities of Virginia and Eveleth, Progress Park’s infrastructure was funded. Roads, sewer and water run through the Park and two 30,000 square foot buildings were constructed. VEEDA owns the two 30,000 square foot buildings in Progress Park which are available for lease. 

The Iron Range Resources agency was instrumental in the original planning of the Park and continues as an active partner in supporting the economic development efforts of VEEDA.

WI Angel Network

Joe Kremer

Director

608.442.7557

http://www.wisconsinangelnetwork.com/

The mission of the Wisconsin Angel Network (WAN) is to build early-stage capital capacity throughout Wisconsin, increasing the number and amount of equity investments in Wisconsin's entrepreneurs.

WAN was founded in January 2005 as an umbrella organization providing services and resources to the early-stage investing community.

WAN does not operate a fund or make recommendations on potential investments.

WAN is a public-private initiative rooted in Governor Jim Doyle's Grow Wisconsin plan and the Legislature's Act 255 initiative, it is operated by the Wisconsin Technology Council.

Visit our Members' Page to learn more about the individuals and groups that comprise the Wisconsin Angel Network.

Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Network

Dave Linz

Northwest Regional Director

715-836-5056

http://www.wenportal.org/

The Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Network (WEN) provides entrepreneurs with access to a statewide network of resources and expertise, identifies high-potential entrepreneurs and helps move their businesses forward, facilitates collaboration between entrepreneurs and between organizations that assist entrepreneurs, and helps create and grow minority-owned businesses.

The "Network" consists of four regional offices and more than 400 people from all points of the state who provide programs, resources and servcies to Wisconsin businesses. The power of the network is demonstrated through partnerships and client successes.