Council discusses Elevate Hennepin initiatives to support small business growth

The Minnesota Metropolitan Council meeting on July 10, 2025, focused on enhancing support for small businesses and improving project engagement within the community. Key discussions centered around the development of a portal for certification programs and the importance of unbundling larger projects to create opportunities for smaller contractors.

Council members highlighted the ongoing collaboration with Metro Transit to engage in maintenance contracts, such as road signage and shelter cleanup. This initiative aims to provide 100% income opportunities for small businesses, particularly those owned by minorities and disadvantaged groups. The council emphasized the need for leadership and initiative in these projects to ensure successful implementation.

Another significant topic was the Elevate Hennepin program, which seeks to support small businesses by providing essential resources and connections. Council member Johnson noted the challenges small business owners face, such as lacking fractional leadership in areas like finance and marketing. The council aims to integrate support systems that help these businesses grow and thrive.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Metropolitan Council's commitment to fostering an inclusive economic environment by connecting small businesses with necessary resources and opportunities for growth. The next steps involve further collaboration with local organizations to ensure that small businesses can access the support they need to succeed.