Local presenter pitches "Next Generation Entrepreneurs" pilot to Lindstrom EDA

Anne Nelson told the Lindstrom EDA she’s proposing a small pilot called "Next Generation Entrepreneurs" to help local students test business ideas and develop entrepreneurial skills. "So I'm Anne Nelson, and I moved to Lindstrom about a year ago now," she said, explaining a plan for an initial class of about 8 to 12 students who would use business-model canvases, improv-style exercises and mentoring from local business owners.

Nelson said the presentation was for feedback only and that she is not requesting taxpayer funding today; she has spoken with county EDA staff and community-center personnel about space and partnerships. EDA members asked how the program would differ from existing offerings such as DECA and the high-school entrepreneurship class; Nelson said the pilot would focus on helping students iterate real ventures and connect directly with downtown entrepreneurs. Board members also asked whether the program should be structured as a nonprofit or run via a contractor; staff reminded the EDA it cannot give money directly to an individual and recommended a nonprofit or formal service agreement if future funding is sought. Nelson outlined next steps: refine a proposal, identify partners and return with a more structured plan.