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Open to Business

Starting or Expanding a Business

Trusted Business Advisors

Open to Business provides free, confidential business counseling to current and prospective entrepreneurs. Our experienced consultants work with you to develop a strong business plan, identify challenges and opportunities, and tailor solutions to your business needs.

We also work with entrepreneurs to find financing that best meets your unique needs. Whether it’s from a bank, a community lending program, or through direct Open to Business funding, we’ll help you assess your options and chart the best path.

No-Cost Business Consulting

Our experienced advisors offer FREE, confidential business consulting & lending options:

  • Business & strategic planning
  • Marketing & communications planning
  • Regulatory, tax, licensing, & accounting training
  • Financial assessment
  • Direct lending
  • Access to governmental & community financing
  • Loan packaging for private financing
  • Referrals to critical professional services
Financing Opportunities

As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), MCCD provides capital to entrepreneurs including those who face challenges in accessing the commercial banking system, with a focus on Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), women, low-wealth individuals, and geographic areas of underinvestment. Low 5%-7% interest RATES & flexible terms for qualified applicants. Rates are subject to change.

Learn more about financing opportunities

Service Areas

Open to Business offers on-site business advising in cities and counties around the Twin Cities region.  

kari
"The support that MCCD and CDFIs provide minority-owned business owners is critical to the ongoing journey of generational healing and cultural empowerment. When each of us rises, we all rise."
Kari Tribble
Founder of Avari Beauty
mireya-web
“MCCD has helped me where I couldn’t and wouldn’t. It’s important that other Hispanic and other Latin people know about MCCD’s existence.”
Mireya
Owner of El Rincon Mexicano
Watson Fong
"MCCD makes the loan process smooth from initial consultation to closing, they have a heart to help small minority businesses like us. We greatly appreciate their support."
Watson Fong
Owner of Asian Mart
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“If someone can IMAGINE their business, MCCD will EDUCATE, COUNSEL, and INSTRUCT you through the process. We are extremely grateful for the Open to Business program at MCCD and know this program will support more new businesses in the future.”
Deru Bezbiah
Owner of Deru Braiding
jeena-web
“I will forever be grateful for MCCD's support and guidance. I confidently continue my passion with MCCD by my side.”
Jeena
Owner of Namaste Brows