Business Outreach

Free "Open to Business" Services

Looking for a trusted advisor for your business? Maybe you've wanted to secure financing to start or expand your business? If so, a new program offered in Columbus may be just want you're looking for. 

New Anoka County Program Helps Existing and Prospective Business Owners in Columbus

Thanks to a partnership between Anoka County and the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD), business owners or those looking to start a new business can access a new program called Open to Business. 

Open to Business will provide prospective and existing entrepreneurs in Columbus with free one-on-one counseling with a business advisor. The program provides assistance in the following areas:

• financial management
• loan packaging
• business plan assistance
• real estate analysis
• marketing assistance
• strategic planning
• business regulations
• professional referrals

 

Small Business Loan Program

Open to Business advisors can also assist entrepreneurs to identify borrowing needs and access financing options. Advisors work with clients to help them find the financing that best meets their own unique needs. MCCD also provides direct financing and loans in partnership with banks and nonprofit lenders. Funds can be used for inventory, working capital, asset and equipment purchases, real estate acquisition, and start-up costs.

 

Anoka County Revolving Loan Fund

Anoka County offers a low-interest rate for job creation and growth-stage businesses (not a good fit for startup businesses or solopreneurs). In 2024, the rate has dropped to four percent! This will save business owners who need financing to grow their businesses a significant amount of money and can be combined with traditional financing and SBA loans.

 

For information on services or to schedule an appointment, contact:

Carrie Mikkonen
612-843-2772
cmikkonen@mccdmn.org

Or, for general program information visit the Open to Business website.