March | April 2025

Bell Tech CNC Machining: A Local Success Story with NCEDA in Their Corner

A small-town business with big-time impact—Bell Tech CNC Machining in Motley, MN, is proving that the right support can turn a vision into success. With local backing and relentless determination, owner Dan Carrey has grown Bell Tech into a thriving company, showing that when communities invest in small businesses, everyone wins.

Labor Shortage Strains Ninth District Employers and It Might Get Tougher

While the labor shortage in the Federal Reserve’s Ninth District has eased considerably since the depths of the COVID-19 pandemic, it remains challenging for many employers.

And there are concerns that it may become more challenging again soon.

That’s according to multiple panelists at the Minneapolis Fed’s eighth annual Regional Economic Conditions Conference (RECC) held in mid-January.

Read more.

Unlock Business Growth: Explore Financing Programs from MN DEED



The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) offers a variety of financing programs to support business growth and economic development in the state.

Here's an overview of some key programs:

Minnesota Job Creation Fund

Provides financial incentives to new and expanding businesses that meet certain job creation and capital investment targets.

Minnesota Investment Fund

Offers loans to assist companies with expansion and new location projects, focusing on industrial, manufacturing, and technology-related industries.

Emerging Entrepreneur Loan Program

Supports the growth of businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities by offering loans for start-up and expansion costs.

Angel Loan Fund

Provides funding to early-stage businesses that have received angel investment, aiming to support high-tech startups and entrepreneurs.

State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI)

Offers various programs to increase access to capital for small businesses, including loan guarantees and venture capital investments.

North Central Small Business Development Center Workshops | Spring Lineup

As you look ahead and begin planning for your personal and team's learning objectives for the new year, consider marking your calendar for the following offerings.

AI for Small Business: These interactive sessions introduce business owners to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. Participants will learn practical applications to enhance customer service, streamline operations, and improve marketing efforts. The workshops are tailored for attendees of all technical backgrounds, equipping them with AI-driven solutions for everyday business challenges. Dates and locations include:

• April 3 | Chisago County HRA-EDA Office | 12:00PM-2:00PM

• April 10 | Pine County Courthouse | 12:00PM-2:00PM

To learn more and to register, please visit www.ifound.org/trainings.

Business Education Through SCORE

The wealth of content available when starting or growing a business can be overwhelming, especially as you deal with so many areas of development, from finance to marketing to legal and business formation issues. Here are some excellent resources to help alleviate the overwhelm.



• April 3rd, 1pm EST: Three Easy Steps To Boost Your Sales Appointments

• April 10th, 1pm EST: How To Use Google Workspace In Your Business

• April 15th, 1pm EST: Mastering Small Business Management

• April 17th, 1pm EST: Integrating AI In Your Business

• April 22nd, 1pm EST: Digital Marketing Strategies To Boost Your Business Growth