Heads up, Saint Paul business owners—Metro State University and the Neighborhood Development Center are teaming up to offer free cybersecurity consultations designed to bolster your digital defenses, according to a recent bulletin from the City of Saint Paul. Understanding the particular vulnerability of small businesses to cyber threats, this initiative will give entrepreneurs the tools to protect their ventures while also providing Metro State students with invaluable field experience. Metro State's cutting-edge space at 809 East 7th Street will serve as the operations base for this collaboration, where students and business owners can converge.
To inject innovation into Minnesota's nascent legal cannabis market, the State’s Office of Cannabis Management has unveiled the dates for business license applications—prospective cannabis entrepreneurs should have their paperwork ready between Tuesday, February 18 and Friday, March 14, these details were made public by a spokesperson on WCCO Radio. This diverse spectrum of open applications ranges from specialized micro businesses to large-scale cultivators and retailers, with lotteries for licenses commencing in May or June, therefore business owners should be prepping to jump into the fray.
Meanwhile, for those in the SF corner of the Midwest, a unique 'restaurant passport' is currently offering Saint Paul residents the chance to explore a variety of doughy delights, as reported by MPR, it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen. And for brides-to-be, LaNoire Bridal's upcoming move into a new space at 7th and Wabasha, backed by a hefty HRA loan as mentioned by Pioneer Press, points to further growth in the local boutique scene.
Attention eco-conscious businesses: grants and incentives are on the table. Xcel Energy commercial customers in Saint Paul may be eligible for not just free ecobee3 lite smart thermostats but also free installation, all this comes courtesy of the Center for Energy and Environment. And, let's not forget the numerous business programs opening applications—from CEO Now's no-cost business growth program to SBA's T.H.R.I.V.E. initiative for small company execs, entrepreneurs in Minnesota have some serious resources at their disposal. Don't dawdle, as these applications won't be around forever, and deadlines are looming.
For more information on any of these opportunities or to check out upcoming events like the Black Business Expo and various educational webinars, visit the City of Saint Paul's Small Business Newsletter.
