Connecting Uptown Businesses to Resources: Elevate Hennepin
Supporting local businesses is at the heart of the Uptown Association mission. As the organization working to Engage, Support, and Strengthen Uptown, the Uptown Association helps connect business owners with programs, funding opportunities, and expert resources that help them grow and succeed.
Running a small business takes focus and time. Between managing customers, staff, inventory, and operations, many owners simply don’t have the time to search for every grant, advising program, or business support opportunity that becomes available. The Uptown Association helps bridge that gap by sharing opportunities and helping businesses understand how to access them.
One of the programs currently available to businesses along the corridor is Elevate Hennepin.
What is Elevate Hennepin?
Elevate Hennepin is a Hennepin County initiative designed to support small businesses by providing access to professional advising, training, and resources that help entrepreneurs grow and strengthen their operations.
The program connects businesses with experienced advisors who can provide guidance on topics such as:
Marketing and branding
Financial planning and accounting
Business strategy and growth
Legal and compliance support
Operations and management
These services are designed to give small businesses access to the kind of expertise that larger organizations often have in-house.
In addition to advising, Elevate Hennepin also offers training and learning opportunities that help business owners build skills and make informed decisions about the future of their businesses.
Why This Matters for Uptown
Uptown has long been home to independent businesses, restaurants, creative studios, and entrepreneurs who bring energy and character to the neighborhood.
Programs like Elevate Hennepin help strengthen these businesses by providing the support and guidance they need to grow, adapt, and invest in their future.
When local businesses succeed, the entire neighborhood benefits—creating more activity, stronger storefronts, and a more vibrant community.
How the Uptown Association Helps
The Uptown Association works to ensure businesses in the neighborhood are aware of programs like Elevate Hennepin and know how to access them.
The organization supports the local business community by:
Sharing information about available programs
UA helps distribute information about grants, advising programs, and other support opportunities that may benefit businesses in Uptown.
Helping businesses navigate resources
Applications and eligibility requirements can sometimes be confusing. UA helps point businesses toward the right contacts and information.
Strengthening connections within the business community
By connecting businesses to resources and to each other, UA helps create a stronger and more resilient business district.
Learn More
If you’re a business owner interested in learning more about Elevate Hennepin and the support available, you can visit:
https://www.elevatehennepin.org
Businesses in Uptown are also encouraged to stay connected with the Uptown Association to learn about additional programs, events, and opportunities designed to support the local business community.
