Visit us at our headquarters in the East Side of Saint Paul, or at our offices in Minneapolis, Willmar, and Austin.
Office hours. Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Saturday-Sunday: Closed - Click here for holiday closure dates
Visit us at our headquarters in the East Side of Saint Paul, or at our offices in Minneapolis, Willmar, and Austin.
Office hours. Monday - Friday: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Saturday-Sunday: Closed - Click here for holiday closure dates
Dreaming of starting or growing your business? CLUES offers one-on-one, culturally relevant coaching to help you build skills, manage finances, and succeed as an entrepreneur.
Dreaming of starting or growing your business? CLUES offers one-on-one, culturally relevant coaching to help you build skills, manage finances, and succeed as an entrepreneur.
CLUES’ Pequeños Negocios (Small Business) program empowers Latino entrepreneurs and small business owners with culturally relevant support in Spanish. Whether you're formalizing an idea or expanding your business, we offer step-by-step guidance tailored to your journey.
We serve first- and second-generation entrepreneurs with practical tools, technical assistance, and real opportunities to help your business thrive.
We provide one-on-one advising and hands-on support in two key areas:
Business Idea Development – Shape and validate your idea based on your passions and market needs
Business Planning – Build a realistic, strategic plan to guide your growth
Funding Access – Explore grants, microloans, and financing options
Basic Administration – Learn to manage your operations, finances, and tools
Marketing & Sales – Promote your services and grow your customer base
Business Registration – Step-by-step support for registering your business locally
EIN (Tax ID) Application – Free assistance with your federal ID
Insurance Guidance – Find the right commercial coverage for your needs
Licenses & Permits – Navigate city- and industry-specific requirements
Contract Review – Basic support reviewing leases, vendor, or employment agreements
We go beyond advising—our program builds community and connection among entrepreneurs.
Educational Workshops – Practical sessions on launching and managing a business
Networking Events – Meet local experts and connect with other business owners
1-on-1 Coaching – Tailored guidance for your sector and goals
Business Promotion – Opportunities to showcase your business at events and fairs
What you’ll learn:
How to define and refine your business concept
Business models and go-to-market strategies
Budgeting, pricing, and break-even planning
How to draft a complete business plan
Since launching, we’ve supported:
MN Promise Act - round 2 can help you with funding for payroll, rent, utilities, equipment, and other essential business expenses!
To qualify, your business must be registered or operating in one of the following areas (ZIP codes):
Minneapolis Areas: North Minneapolis: 55411, 55412, 55430; South Minneapolis: 55404, 55406, 55407, 55408, 55409, 55414, 55454; Uptown: 55410
Get inspired by photos of our entrepreneurs, workshops, and events.
CLUES is a nonprofit public charity recognized as tax exempt by the IRS under section 501(c)(3). CLUES tax ID: 41-1386986. Our Donor Privacy Policy can be found here.
