LAMA Business Grants & Loans

Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation

Your dream begins with BLAEDC.  You’re beginning to believe your dream can be a reality. But where do you start? We’re here to help by sharing necessary steps, identifying key resources, and connecting you with a supportive community of like-minded professionals. We know what it takes to build a business in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Begin with us.

Northwest Minnesota Foundation

Offers microloans for working capital, equipment, etc., with competitive rates, often working with a lead bank.

Initiative Foundation

Provides grants to nonprofits, schools, and government within their 14-county region (including Crow Wing) for community development. 

State of Minnesota (DEED) Programs

• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF): Works with local partners for job creation/retention projects.
• Job Creation Fund: Supports larger projects creating new jobs.
• Automation Loan Participation Program: Gap financing for small manufacturers to buy machinery/software.
• Growth Loan Fund: Direct loans for early-stage businesses, especially those with Angel Tax Credits. 

Minnesota Chamber of Commerce – Business & Economic Development Resources

The Grow Minnesota! program helps businesses connect to critical resources to grow and expand in Minnesota. We work in partnership with local chambers of commerce, economic development organizations and business resource providers to ensure that Minnesota companies have a strong network of supporters to address key challenges and grow their business here in the state.