Get the low-down on recent developments happening in Chisago County

The Chisago County HRA-EDA offers a wide range of assistance to the public and private sectors within Chisago County.


  • Economic Development
  • Housing Development & Rehabilitation
  • Community Development
  • Small Business Development Center


Our newsletters this year are focused on showcasing what makes Chisago County truly one-of-a-kind. From stunning landscapes to vibrant communities, our diverse attractions offer endless opportunities for fun and adventure.




Discover

Chisago County!

Nestled in the picturesque St. Croix River Valley of Minnesota, Franconia Sculpture Park is a feast for the senses and the soul. This is no ordinary museum—it's 50 acres of open-air creativity, where contemporary sculpture, installation, and land art collide to inspire wonder and spark new ways of thinking. If you haven’t already packed your bags, here’s why this one-of-a-kind destination should be at the top of your must-visit list.


Art for the Bold and the Curious

Since 1996, Franconia Sculpture Park has been setting the gold standard as the Midwest's premier, artist-centered sculpture park. But don't expect dull, stuffy exhibits here. This outdoor haven celebrates the experimental, the unexpected, and the downright daring.


A Hub of Creativity

Franconia isn't just a park—it’s a creative powerhouse. With an active artist residency program, visitors get the rare chance to see artists at work, shaping new worlds from raw materials. Dive into their array of community arts programming, tailored for a diverse and engaged audience. It’s a hands-on, minds-open kind of place.


Art That Speaks to Our Times

At Franconia, art isn't just decoration—it’s a vehicle for change. Through bold programming and critical dialogue, the park tackles the challenges of today and tomorrow. Here, artists find a platform to create and present experimental works that resonate with the world we live in.


Come as You Are

What truly sets Franconia apart is its welcoming vibe. This isn’t a "look but don’t touch" museum. It’s an inclusive, inviting space designed for all. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your sense of wonder. Whether you’re strolling among towering sculptures or learning about the environment, you’ll leave feeling more connected—to art, to nature, and to yourself.


So, why visit Franconia Sculpture Park? Because it’s not just a park. It’s a playground for the imagination, a stage for bold ideas, and a meeting ground for art and community. Your next great adventure awaits in Chisago County!


Learn more >

Two New Businesses, One Vision - Come to North Branch.

Compass Child Care


Compass collaborated with the owners of the former Tanger Mall to secure several suites, including the public restroom and the mall office space, transforming them into a stunning new child care facility. Compass also took advantage of the Chisago County Child Care Coalition's technical support and center grant opportunities to assist with this new facility. Construction began last fall, and in early March, Compass hosted an open house to welcome community members, offering them the opportunity to explore the facility and learn more about their services.


Compass Child Care is committed to providing every child with a safe, stimulating, and caring space to flourish. Their licensed early childhood education center specializes in nurturing infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, fostering essential developmental skills through engaging and enjoyable experiences!


Enrolling now!


Learn more >

Teeny Town Playground


Also collaborating with the owners of the former mall, Teeny Town nabbed a larger suite and turned it into a vibrant indoor playground.


This thoughtfully designed facility inspires creativity and a sense of adventure for kids of all ages. With its enchanting decor and cutting-edge play structures, Teeny Town provides a safe, stimulating environment for children to explore, learn, and create lasting memories. Every aspect of the playground is crafted to fuel young minds and keep the fun alive.


Each play area is carefully designed to nurture children's natural curiosity while promoting active play and meaningful social interactions.

Parents can sit back and relax in the comfortable seating areas, keeping their little ones in view while enjoying a well-deserved moment of rest. Whether it's a day filled with laughter, exploration, or bonding time, Teeny Town Playground offers something special for every family.


Learn more >

Mark your calendars: Lots of action around SBDC in March & April!

AI Workshop

The Chisago County HRA-EDA will be hosting this interactive workshop designed to assist in using artificial intelligence and introduce business owners to its transformative power. It covers practical applications that drive growth, efficiency, and customer engagement. Participants will learn how to use AI to streamline key business areas such as customer service, marketing, operations, and management.


Click the link below to register.


Get more info >


Required BOI Reporting

Beneficial Owner Information reporting is due in March. Penalties may be enforced to any business that has not completed this reporting. Click the link below to view a recorded instructional webinar on this reporting requirement.


Get more info >


SBDC Open House 2025

This year’s open house is set for April 30th and will take place at the Chisago County HRA-EDA. Whether you’re a seasoned business owner, dreaming of starting your own venture, or simply curious about the world of business ownership, this event has something for everyone.


Hosted annually, the open house is a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, explore new ideas, and discover how the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) can provide guidance and resources at any stage of your business journey. From start-up advice to strategies for growth, the SBDC is here to support your goals.


This well-attended event promises an engaging atmosphere where knowledge and inspiration come together. Don’t miss your chance to network, learn, and take your business ambitions to the next level.


No registration needed - We look forward to seeing you there!


SBA Week

For over six decades, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has honored National Small Business Week (NSBW), celebrating the vital role of America's entrepreneurs and small business owners. This year, National Small Business Week 2025 will be held from May 4-10. During this week, the SBA will formally acknowledge the hard work, creativity, and dedication of these individuals, highlighting their significant contributions to the economy.


Get more info >





Prime Freeway Access Opportunity!

Rush City I35 SW Interchange

Rush City, MN 55069


About:

Located at the I35 SW Interchange, these build-ready sites in Rush City offer great visibility and access to I35. Zoned for highway business, the 10.31-acre property is

adjacent to a popular golf course and just 3 miles from Rush City Regional Airport. The property is subdividable, making it flexible for various business needs.

Property Specs:

  • 10.31 Acres
  • Cost: Negotiable
  • Finance Incentive Programs Available
  • Located next to a popular golf course
  • Electric: East Central Energy
  • Gas: Minnesota Energy Resources
  • City Water and Sewer
  • Telecommunications: Midcontinent and

CenturyLink


Learn more >

Comprehensive Housing Needs Analysis in Chisago County.

In 2023, the Chisago County HRA-EDA contracted with Maxfield Research & Consulting to update a Housing Analysis that was completed in 2018. The report is finalized with data provided from in-person stakeholder meetings, public online survey results and other partnership meetings.


This study projects housing demand through 2030 and provides recommendations on the amount and type of housing that could be built in Chisago County to satisfy demand from current and future residents over the next decade. The study identifies a potential demand for over 5,500 new housing units through 2030. Driven by the growing Baby Boomer cohort, demand is strong for age-restricted senior housing (1,829 units) whereas all-ages housing accounts for two-thirds of demand (3,695 units).


Learn more >

CHISAGO COUNTY HRA-EDA |  38871 7TH AVE * PO BOX 815 NORTH BRANCH, MN 55056

651-674-5664 | WWW.CHISAGOCOUNTY.ORG | INFO@CHISAGOCOUNTY.COM

Issue: March 14, 2025