ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) has launched the “Choose Minnesota” initiative to encourage ongoing support for local businesses and strengthen the state’s economy.
DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek said small businesses are the backbone of Minnesota’s economy, and many have faced unprecedented challenges this year. “It’s more important than ever for Minnesotans to show up and support the businesses that help our communities thrive,” Varilek said.
“The way Minnesotans came together to support their neighbors has inspired people across the country over the past few months,” Varilek said. “We show up for each other, and Choose Minnesota is about encouraging people to continue this kind of community building to support local businesses and strengthen our economy.”
DEED says it will partner with business owners and other leaders to host a series of roundtables in communities across the state this summer. The first roundtable will take place in St. Cloud on May 11, with more roundtables being planned in the months ahead.
The roundtables will highlight the challenges and opportunities facing small businesses and identify ways Minnesotans can support local businesses that power local economies. Business owners will have an opportunity to share their experiences and connect with partners and leaders working to support economic resilience in communities across Minnesota.
DEED says the Choose Minnesota initiative focuses on the impact of supporting local businesses — from shopping and dining to products, services and experiences. By encouraging Minnesotans to support local and neighborhood businesses, the initiative aims to increase foot traffic, boost visibility for small enterprises and reinforce collective investment in local success.
The initiative will also feature online resources and social media engagement designed to help Minnesotans support local businesses, share their experiences and encourage others to take part. DEED and its partners encourage residents, organizations and businesses to take part in supporting Minnesota’s small businesses year-round.