Starting a Business in Minnesota ?

Here is information that can help you along the way. Please feel free to contact the Chamber with any additional questions. We're happy to help! 

Small Business Assistance Office 
651.296.3871 or 1.800.657.3858
The Small Business Assistance Office, a part of the Minnesota Department of Trade and Economic Development, serves as a point of first and continuing contact for individuals and firms with questions about the start-up, operation or expansion of a business in Minnesota . The Office seeks to remedy what economists call the "problem of information cost." That is, it is often very expensive -- in terms of money, time, expertise, and lost opportunity -- for a business person to obtain information necessary or useful to business operations. The State of Minnesota seeks to reduce those costs by having the Small Business Assistance Office provide business related publications and technical assistance free-of-charge.

Minnesota Department of Employment & Economic Development (DTED)
651.297.1291 or 1.800.657.3858
DTED helps Minnesota businesses to grow and expand, while simultaneously supporting new entrepreneurial enterprises and attracting new businesses to the state. Department services include business financing and incentive funding, site selection, project coordination and technical assistance. DTED also provides information on customized training, state and local financial resources and international trade assistance.

Minnesota Secretary of State
651.297.7067
This office files and records original and amendment documents for all business, nonprofit, foreign, banking, insurance, and professional corporations, cooperatives, limited partnerships, limited liability partnerships and limited liability companies formed or doing business in this state.  It also records trademark and assumed business names.  Offers a booklet, “Guide to Starting a Business in Minnesota ”, along with a variety of forms needed for taxes, etc.

Saint Paul Business Resource Center
651.266.6600
One stop shop for information on business resources and assistance in Saint Paul .

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) – Minnesota Office
612.370.2324
SBA is here to help you - the existing or prospective small business owner. Their commitment is to aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns; to preserve free competitive enterprise; and to maintain and strengthen the overall economy of the nation. SBA offers free counseling and technical assistance, education, training, business development and financial assistance.

City of Saint Paul Planning & Economic Development 651.266.6700
PED can also help your business find government grants and loans.

City of Saint Paul Licensing, Inspections & Environmental Protection
651.266.9090
One stop shop for most of your business and building projects in Saint Paul . There are five main areas in LIEP: Animal Control, Building, Business Licensing, Environmental Protection, and Zoning. Some permits and licenses may be applied for online.

Remember, you can contact the Chamber with any additional questions.