Start your business here.
Your dream begins with BLAEDC
If you’re planning to start a business in the Brainerd Lakes Area, you’ve come to the right place! BLAEDC will help you identify the necessary steps and share the critical resources that will help you succeed. Below is a list of community resources that will get you started.
Individualized Business Consulting and Trainings
BLAEDC is a satellite site for the North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC), dedicated to helping entrepreneurs and small business owners start, grow, and succeed. Through this partnership, we offer expert guidance from two experienced business consultants. Whether you are just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, we are here to help you achieve your goals. The North Central SBDC is hosted by Central Lakes College in Brainerd providing training and no-cost technical assistance to entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the region.
Here are two primary ways that we can help you:
No-Cost Professional Business Consulting: We are ready to work closely with you to analyze your business needs, develop strategies, and overcome challenges. All consulting services are provided at no cost and are completely confidential.
Workshops and Trainings: Throughout the year, a wide range of workshops and trainings on various business topics, from marketing and finance to management and business planning are offered at the host site of Central Lakes College.
Get started today! Register for no-cost consulting services by clicking “Request Services Online,” check out our upcoming events by selecting “Trainings and Workshops,” or reach out to our staff directly to see how we can help you reach your small business goals.
Business Planning Tools
Are you looking for resources to help you get your business off the ground? Whether you need assistance with business plans, accounting, insurance, taxes, or navigating the complexities of starting your own company, there are valuable tools available to support your journey. The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) provides a comprehensive guide, Starting a Business in Minnesota, which covers everything from choosing the right business structure to understanding state regulations and tax requirements. This guide is an essential resource for entrepreneurs at any stage, offering step-by-step instructions, tips, and links to additional programs and services to help your business thrive. Visit the DEED website to access this guide and take the next steps toward your entrepreneurial success.
Other entrepreneur and small business resources:
Women’s Business Alliance
The Women’s Business Alliance (WBA) provides women business owners with services to grow, finance or start a business. The Entrepreneur Fund hosts two of the three Women’s Business Centers (WBCs) in the state of Minnesota and has both the WBA Central Region (including Crow Wing County) and the WBA North Region (including Cass and Aitkin counties). See here for more information. WBCs, like the SBDC, are Resource Partners of the United States Small Business Administration. See here for more information about WBCs on the SBA website.
SCORE
SCORE provides invaluable support for small businesses and entrepreneurs, offering free mentoring, resources, and tools tailored to help you succeed at every stage of your business journey. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, SCORE connects you with experienced business professionals who can guide you in areas like marketing, finance, business planning, and more. Take advantage of their online resources, workshops, and webinars to gain new skills and insights. Click here to explore a wealth of additional resources designed to empower your business.
Veteran Services
Veterans looking to start or grow a business can access a variety of specialized resources through Crow Wing County Veteran Services. This program provides guidance and support tailored to veterans, including information on financial assistance, educational opportunities, and entrepreneurial resources. By connecting veterans with the tools and programs they need, Veteran Services aims to empower those who have served to achieve success in their business ventures. Explore how these resources can help you turn your entrepreneurial goals into reality. Learn more at Crow Wing County Veteran Services.
The SBA provides valuable resources to support veteran-owned businesses as they enter and grow in the world of business ownership. Veterans can access specialized training programs, funding opportunities, federal contracting programs, and expert advice to help them succeed. Click here to learn more.
National Disability Institute (NDI)
Entrepreneurs with disabilities can access a wealth of resources and support through the Disability-Owned Business Enterprise (DOBE) program. This initiative empowers individuals with disabilities to start, grow, and sustain their businesses. From expert guidance on business planning and certification processes to networking opportunities and tailored resources, the program ensures that entrepreneurs with disabilities have the tools they need to succeed. Explore valuable insights and connect with a supportive community dedicated to fostering inclusion and innovation in small business. Learn more at Disability-Owned Business Enterprise.
