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Downtown Rochester MN
Downtown Rochester MN

Downtown Rochester is full of organizations dedicated to helping you turn ideas into action. Whether you’re developing a business plan, preparing to launch, or ready to grow, these resources are here to guide you with expert support every step of the way.

Business Planning

  • Collider Foundation: Helps new businesses get started with practical education, personalized guidance, and connections to the resources needed to launch and grow. Reach out if you need help developing your idea, looking for coworking space, are needing startup support, or want guidance on navigating local business resources.

  • Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Offers no-cost, confidential advising to help entrepreneurs refine business plans, improve financials, and move from idea to launch. Reach out if you need help with business planning, financial projections, or general business support.

  • Small Business Administration (SBA): Supports entrepreneurs through loan programs, counseling, and federal resources designed to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. Reach out if you’re looking for financing options, government-backed loans, or guidance on federal small business programs.

Financial Resources

  • Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED): Provides statewide programs, grants, and resources that help Minnesota businesses start, grow, and hire. Reach out if you need help with workforce development, statewide funding programs, or assistance expanding your business in Minnesota.

  • Destination Medical Center (DMC): Drives economic development in downtown Rochester by supporting business growth, innovation, and investment within the DMC district. Reach out if you’re looking for insights on development opportunities, downtown market data, or programs supporting business activity in the DMC area.

  • Rochester Area Economic Development, Inc. (RAEDI): Helps businesses start, expand, and relocate in the Rochester region through technical assistance, financing tools, and strategic support. Reach out if you need help accessing capital, exploring expansion opportunities, or connecting to regional economic resources.

  • Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF): Supports entrepreneurs and small towns through loans, grants, and programs that strengthen economic vitality across southern Minnesota. Reach out if you need funding options, early-stage business support, or programs focused on rural and regional growth.

Fees, Permits, & Regulations

  • City of Rochester – Permits & Licensing: The City of Rochester handles the permits, inspections, and licenses required for certain business operations and special activities. Reach out if you need building or business operation permits, signage approvals, or help navigating city code compliance.

  • Olmsted County – Business Licensing & Permits: Olmsted County issues permits for health, food service, special events, and environmental compliance, as well as utility or access permits. Reach out if you need food or lodging licenses, well or septic permits, or county-level regulatory support.

  • Minnesota Secretary of State – Business Registration: The Minnesota Secretary of State registers business entities, assumed names (DBAs), and handles annual filings. Reach out if you need to register your business, file a name change, or submit your annual renewal.

  • Minnesota Department of Labor & Industry (DLI): DLI oversees workplace safety, contractor licensing, and labor regulations in Minnesota. Reach out if you need help securing a contractor license, understanding labor laws, or complying with workplace safety standards.

Connection & Networking

  • Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce: Connects businesses with advocacy, networking, and resources that support growth and community engagement. Reach out if you’re looking to expand your network, engage in local business events, or access member resources that help your business thrive.