The Right Capital at the Right Stage of Your Business.
Access to capital is one of the most significant barriers facing Black-owned businesses in Minnesota. Black entrepreneurs face higher loan denial rates, lower average loan amounts, and less access to venture capital than white entrepreneurs with comparable businesses and credit profiles.
The Minnesota Black Chamber's Capital Center exists to close that gap — by connecting Black entrepreneurs with the lenders, investors, and programs specifically designed to serve them, and by providing the technical assistance they need to be ready when opportunity arrives.
Capital Resources by Type
Grants
Non-repayable funding from government agencies, corporations, and foundations. The Capital Center maintains a curated, regularly updated directory of grant opportunities available to Black-owned businesses in Minnesota — with federal, state, local, and private grant sources, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements.
Finding the right grant is only half the challenge. The Chamber provides resources to help you build a competitive application — and connects you with technical assistance support to make the most of what you receive.
Loans
Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), SBA-guaranteed lenders, community banks, and credit unions offer loan programs specifically designed for Black-owned businesses. The Capital Center connects you with:
- Microloans — under $50,000, for early-stage businesses and working capital needs
- Small Business Loans — $50,000 to $500,000, for growth and expansion
- Growth Capital — $500,000+, for scaling established businesses
Our lending partner network includes institutions with track records of serving Black entrepreneurs — organizations that understand the barriers and are committed to closing the capital gap.
Equity Investment
Impact investors, Black-led venture funds, and angel investor networks interested in Black-owned businesses are an underutilized resource in Minnesota. The Capital Center connects growth-stage businesses with investors aligned with their stage and industry — and provides pitch preparation resources and investor matching support.
Capital Readiness
Before applying for capital, businesses need to be ready. The Chamber's Capital Readiness program helps entrepreneurs understand what lenders look for, build the financial documentation required for loan applications, develop realistic projections, and present their businesses effectively.
Being capital-ready is not just about access — it is about positioning your business to get the best terms available and to build a relationship with capital partners who can support your long-term growth.
Capital Partners
The Capital Center is powered by a network of lending and investment partners committed to closing the capital gap for Black-owned businesses in Minnesota.
[COPY NOTE: Display partner logos with links to their programs. Update quarterly. Include brief description of each partner's program focus.]
“Capital doesn't just fund a business. It funds the future that business makes possible.”
PRIMARY CTA: [ Explore Funding Options ]
SECONDARY CTA: [ Apply for Capital Readiness Support ]