Building Businesses at Every Stage of Growth.
Whether you're refining a business idea, growing your customer base, preparing for larger contracts, or scaling an established company, the Minnesota Black Chamber of Commerce provides the education, relationships, resources, and opportunities to help you move forward.
Our programs are designed to deliver measurable business outcomes, not just educational experiences. Through coaching, technical assistance, strategic partnerships, advocacy, and access to capital, we help entrepreneurs build stronger businesses that contribute to Minnesota's economy.
PRIMARY CTA: [ Explore Programs ]
SECONDARY CTA: [ Apply Today ]
Find the Right Program for Your Stage
Every entrepreneur is at a different place in their journey. Tell us where you are — and we'll show you the programs built for you.
I'm Starting a Business
You have an idea. We'll help you build the foundation.
Recommended Programs: 10,000 Black Business Program – Launch | Business Education Workshops | Chamber Membership | Chamber Connect Networking
PRIMARY CTA: [ Start Your Journey ]
I'm Growing My Business
You're generating revenue and ready for your next stage of growth.
Recommended Programs: 10,000 Black Business Program – Grow | Technical Assistance | Procurement Readiness | Leadership Development
PRIMARY CTA: [ Grow Your Business ]
I'm Ready to Scale
You're preparing for significant growth, larger contracts, additional employees, or expanded markets.
Recommended Programs: 10,000 Black Business Program – Scale | Corporate Procurement | Supplier Diversity | Executive Leadership | Capital Readiness
PRIMARY CTA: [ Scale Your Business ]
Signature Program: 10,000 Black Business Program
“Transforming Vision into Sustainable Growth.”
The 10,000 Black Business Program is the Chamber's flagship business development initiative, designed to help entrepreneurs launch, grow, and scale successful businesses through education, coaching, technical assistance, and strategic partnerships.
Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all curriculum, the program meets entrepreneurs where they are — providing stage-specific learning experiences and individualized support. Participants gain practical knowledge, peer connections, one-on-one coaching, access to technical assistance funding, and opportunities to strengthen their businesses for long-term success.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES — PARTICIPANTS STRENGTHEN THEIR ABILITY TO:
- Build sustainable business models
- Improve financial readiness
- Strengthen marketing and sales
- Increase operational efficiency
- Prepare for procurement opportunities
- Access capital
- Expand professional networks
- Develop long-term growth strategies
Launch — Build Your Business on a Strong Foundation
Designed for entrepreneurs in the early stages of business ownership, Launch helps participants move from concept to confidence by strengthening the essential building blocks of business success.
IDEAL FOR:
- New businesses
- Early-stage entrepreneurs
- Side businesses preparing for growth
- Individuals transitioning to entrepreneurship
TOPICS INCLUDE:
- Business Planning | Legal Formation | Marketing | Financial Foundations
- Business Operations | Customer Development | Pricing | Technology
DURATION:
Eight weeks. A cohort experience combining classroom instruction, coaching, and business presentations.
PRIMARY CTA: [ Apply for the Next Launch Cohort ]
Grow — Build Capacity for Sustainable Growth
Grow is designed for businesses that have established operations and are ready to strengthen systems, expand revenue, and prepare for larger opportunities.
FOCUS AREAS:
- Leadership | Business Strategy | Financial Management | Sales
- Marketing | Operational Excellence | Team Development | Customer Retention
Businesses leave the Grow track with a stronger operational foundation and a strategic growth plan built for the next stage.
PRIMARY CTA: [ Apply for the Grow Track ]
Scale — Preparing Businesses for the Next Level
Scale supports established businesses pursuing larger contracts, regional expansion, increased staffing, and long-term organizational growth.
FOCUS AREAS:
- Executive Leadership | Capital Readiness | Corporate Procurement | Government Contracting
- Strategic Planning | Scaling Operations | Risk Management | Business Sustainability
PRIMARY CTA: [ Apply for the Scale Track ]
Technical Assistance
“Investing in Business Growth.”
Eligible businesses may access technical assistance resources designed to strengthen their operational capacity and accelerate growth. Support may include investments in:
- Technology
- Marketing
- Professional services
- Equipment
- Certifications
- Capacity-building initiatives
Technical assistance is intended to help businesses implement strategies that contribute to sustainable growth and increased competitiveness.
Chamber Connect
“Relationships That Create Opportunity.”
Business growth happens through relationships. Chamber Connect brings entrepreneurs, executives, corporate leaders, and community partners together to build authentic relationships that lead to new opportunities, referrals, partnerships, and collaboration.
These gatherings are intentionally designed to go beyond networking — creating meaningful connections that strengthen Minnesota's business community and create lasting opportunity.
Business Education
“Learning That Leads to Action.”
The Chamber offers educational workshops throughout the year focused on practical business skills and emerging topics. Workshop topics include:
- Artificial Intelligence for Business | Marketing Strategy | Financial Management
- Government Contracting | Human Resources | Leadership | Procurement
- Digital Marketing | Business Planning | Cybersecurity
Why Our Programs Work
Unlike traditional business training programs, the Minnesota Black Chamber combines education with relationships, advocacy, and opportunity. Participants gain more than knowledge. They become part of a statewide network committed to their long-term success.
“Every program the Chamber runs is designed to produce one thing: a stronger business.”
Success Stories
[COPY NOTE: Rotating success story cards — 3 featured at a time. Each card: owner photo, business name, one-sentence outcome, [Read Full Story] link. Refresh quarterly.]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is eligible to participate in the 10,000 Black Business Program?
The 10,000 Black Business Program is open to Black-owned businesses and Black entrepreneurs at all stages of business development. Chamber membership is encouraged but not required for initial program inquiry. Contact our team to learn about eligibility for each track.
Do I need to be a Chamber member to participate in programs?
Membership provides priority access and discounted program rates. Some programs are open to non-members. Contact our team for current program eligibility and membership requirements.
When do cohorts begin?
Cohorts are offered throughout the year. Sign up for our newsletter or check this page for current cohort schedules and application deadlines.
What is technical assistance, and how do I apply?
Technical assistance provides eligible businesses with resources to invest in their own growth — from technology to marketing to professional services. Eligibility and application details are available through our Programs team. Contact us to learn more.
Is there a cost to participate?
Program fees vary by track and membership status. The Chamber offers scholarships and subsidized access for eligible businesses. Contact our team to discuss options.
“Your next stage starts here.”
No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, the Minnesota Black Chamber has programs designed to help you build, grow, and lead.
PRIMARY CTA: [ Apply for a Program ]
SECONDARY CTA: [ Contact Our Team ]