northstar business resources

business planning and consulting

Get your business started with the help of local and regional business experts.

apex

APEX is a nonprofit organization based in Duluth, Minnesota that focuses on attracting and retaining businesses in northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.

APEX provides assistance and information on the benefits of doing business in the region, including workforce development programs, financing and incentive opportunities, and the region's strategic location for transportation, logistics, and site selection to help businesses grow and succeed.

With a range of business and economic development services, APEX's leadership and staff of seasoned professionals and executives will help you navigate your business journey.

APEX Business home page as seen on a laptop

Koochiching Economic Development Authority

Koochiching Economic Development Authority (KEDA) serves as the primary development agency for Koochiching County in Minnesota's North Country.

KEDA's mission is to promote economic growth and job creation by simplifying and facilitating the process of starting or expanding a business in the region.

From site selection and development to financing and incentives, KEDA works closely with other economic development agencies and liaises between local government units to ensure a seamless development process.

By leveraging KEDA's expertise and resources, KEDA strives to foster a thriving business environment in Koochiching County.

Koochiching Economic Development Authority as see on a laptop

Minnesota DEED

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's (DEED) Business Services provide a wide range of resources and tools to help businesses in Minnesota start, manage, and grow their companies.

Find information on workforce development, business financing, exporting, and industry information. Minnesota DEED provides access to various programs and initiatives to assist businesses, including Small Business Development Centers, the Minnesota Job Skills Partnership, and the Angel Tax Credit Program.

Visitors to DEED Business Services can also find information on taxes, licenses, permits, and tools to search for available business sites and buildings in Minnesota.

Minnesota DEED Program website page as seen on a laptop

northland small business development center

The Northland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is a resource for entrepreneurs and small business owners in Northeast Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin.

The center offers various services, including one-on-one consulting, training and workshops, access to funding and financing, and assistance with marketing and sales strategies.

Northland SBD has a team of experienced business consultants who can provide one-on-one guidance and support to help entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their goals.

The Northland SBDC is part of a statewide network of SBDCs and is a partnership between the University of Minnesota Duluth, the Small Business Administration, and other local organizations.

Northland Small Business Development website home page as seen on a laptop

northspan

The Northspan Group is a private, non-profit consulting firm specializing in economic and community development throughout the Upper Midwest.

Their team offers creative, strategic support to help businesses, communities, regions, and organizations thrive in a global economy. They collaborate with economic and community development partners to leverage resources for measurable and sustainable results. The Northspan Group offers a comprehensive suite of tools, including reports, guides, and webinars, to support businesses and communities in the region. 

The Northspan Group is committed to strategic and collaborative economic and community development solutions and empowering clients to thrive and achieve sustainable results.

the northspan group home page as seen on a laptop

score

SCORE is a nonprofit organization that provides free business mentoring, workshops, and resources to entrepreneurs and small business owners across the United States.

SCORE offers a wealth of information on topics ranging from starting and growing a business to financing and marketing. With a network of over 10,000 volunteer mentors and 300 chapters nationwide, SCORE is committed to helping businesses succeed through education and support.

SCORE also provides access to tools and templates for business planning, financial forecasting, and marketing strategy, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs at all stages of their business journey.

SCORE home page as seen on a laptop
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