DEED Librarian Dru Frykberg
It’s good news that unemployment is slowly but surely shrinking across the country, with national unemployment down to 7%. Minnesota, which weathered the recession better than most states, currently has 4.6% unemployment. Yet, state officials would still like to see unemployment numbers continue to fall with the creation of more jobs, which would allow still more Minnesotans to get back to work. This is no doubt why Governor Mark Dayton recently announced that businesses looking to expand their operations and hire new workers in Minnesota may qualify for assistance from the newly-created Minnesota Job Creation Fund. Administered by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the goal of this $25 million program is to create an estimated 5,000 new jobs statewide and attract another $450 million of private investment. DEED is currently accepting applications from businesses seeking financial assistance to expand or locate in Minnesota. Businesses engaged in manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and technology may be eligible. More information on the Minnesota Job Creation Fund is available here.
Are you looking to start a business or expand your existing business but find you have questions? Much free information to assist you in starting or administering your business is available through DEED and can be ordered through this link. Assistance in finding answers to specific questions may also be found by contacting DEED through their website, visiting their convenient St. Paul skyway location or by calling 651-259-7114.
