Southern MN Initiative Foundation, SMIF, has multiple business loan programs for small businesses:

• Start-up businesses without established financials
• Business owners with little or no credit history
• Growing businesses
• Businesses with requests exceeding the financial institution’s policy or risk limitations



Click HERE for more information.

Breakfast With The Board

Rooted in our mission to lead, connect, and advocate for a thriving business community—and in the important role our Stakeholders play as trusted advisors to our Board—we were pleased to host our recent Breakfast with the Board at Ruth’s on Stafford.

Stakeholder members enjoyed breakfast alongside our Board of Directors and heard from Chamber President Jane Bartho, who shared key updates, highlighted current initiatives, and outlined the Chamber’s forward-looking vision.

These conversations matter. Events like this play an important role in fostering connection, transparency, and collaboration. By creating opportunities for members and leadership to engage directly, we strengthen relationships, encourage open dialogue, and ensure our business community remains informed, engaged, and aligned in our shared efforts to support growth and success.

Thank you to all who joined us—we are proud to continue building a stronger Chamber together.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Elisa Pho

We were pleased to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Elisa Pho, Dundas’ newest destination for authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The event marked an exciting addition to our local business community and a warm welcome for their team.

Guests had the opportunity to meet the owners, explore the menu, and experience the vibrant flavors Elisa Pho brings to the area. The celebration was well attended, with strong community support and enthusiasm for this new dining option.

Business After Hours at Merchants Bank

We had a wonderful time at our recent Business After Hours event hosted by Merchants Bank. The evening provided a valuable opportunity for members to connect, network, and strengthen relationships within our local business community.

Events like Business After Hours play an important role in advancing the Chamber’s mission by fostering meaningful connections, supporting collaboration, and creating opportunities for businesses to grow and succeed. By bringing professionals together in a relaxed setting, we help build a stronger, more engaged business network that benefits our entire community.

The event also served as a special occasion to welcome Sonya Busch as the new President of Merchants Bank. We look forward to her leadership and continued partnership with the Chamber. At the same time, we extend our sincere appreciation to former President Kirk Muhlenbruck for his years of dedication and service, and we wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at Sanctuary Studio

We were pleased to celebrate the ribbon cutting for Sanctuary Studio, a new wellness space offering holistic services that support healing and well-being through all of life’s transitions.

Guests enjoyed touring the studio and learning more about their unique offerings, which include birth and postpartum doula support, childbirth education, reiki, sound baths, and community gatherings designed to nurture both body and mind.

It was a wonderful turnout and a great show of community support as we welcomed Sanctuary Studio to the community.

• Sonya Busch has been named Marked President for Merchants Bank in Northfield, MN. Read the full press release HERE.
• Save the date & partner with Our Community Foundation, Northfield Shares, in support of this new, fun, unique, collaborative, fundraising event on November 7, 2026 at The Grand. Click HERE for more information.
• HomeTown Credit Union brings real-world financial simulation to Faribault High School students. Read the full press release HERE.
• TBI Ranch will be hosting a Brain Injury Support Group, May 9 @2::00pm at the community room at Culver's in Northfield. 
• Join Chris and Greg of Weichert Realty the 1st and 3rd Thursday's to ask questions about real estate. Click HERE for more details.
• Awakened Healing is hosting "A Celebration of the Women Who Nurture Families, Communities, and the World" event on May 2nd. Click HERE for more information and to register!
• Vivie is hosting a 5k/10k walk on June 6th. Click HERE for more information.