East Metro MSP Makes It Easy to Find Business Grants and Resources

The Washington County Community Development Agency (CDA) is committed to helping small business owners across East Metro MSP. There are several grants, incentives, resources, and other programs available to help companies grow. Whether you are an entrepreneur launching your first business or a seasoned community leader expanding your operations, there are opportunities to streamline your operations.

“Our goal at the CDA is to work with businesses across all industries and sizes,” says Chris Eng, Economic Development Director for East Metro MSP. “Washington County has a vibrant small business ecosystem, and we want to nurture that.”

Learn more about the programs available and see which ones can support your business. 

Open to Business Provides Free Advising

Open to Business is a program that offers free, confidential business counseling to companies across the region. Companies can schedule appointments to discuss specific pain points or meet with an advisor to review their business plan and identify ways to strengthen it.

Open to Business is more than just a counseling session. The people you meet with will recommend action items to take the next steps or connect you with other professionals who might help.

Tyler Hilsabeck, the Open to Business advisor for Washington County, understands that many business owners have packed schedules or work multiple jobs. This is why he is happy to schedule virtual meetings, after-hours sessions, or discussions in different languages with liaisons for the region.

The first step to grow your business is to receive an objective perspective on its operations. Schedule an Open to Business meeting today. 

SizeUp Tools Provide Free Business Insights

The CDA also offers SizeUp to businesses, a tool that allows companies to conduct market research for free. Instead of paying thousands of dollars to hire a consultant or pay for market research, entrepreneurs and business leaders can find data about customers and competitors in East Metro MSP.

“SizeUp is a useful jumping-off point for business research,” says Eng. “You can use the free insights and objective data to make decisions for your organization. This can help you act with confidence.”

Entrepreneurs can use the SizeUp tools as often as they need. While you might benefit from the demographic data at first, you could return for the competitor insights later.  

Find Business Incentives in One Place

Entrepreneurs and business leaders can also find financial opportunities at the local and state-based level through the CDA. The incentives page on the CDA website lists grants, tax credits and exemptions, and other programs to help businesses save money. Business owners might not realize they can save money on capital equipment purchases or secure funding by creating jobs in Minnesota.

Companies can take advantage of multiple incentive programs each year. Review available incentives and see how your business can save money. 

New Programs Are Always Being Launched

Following the CDA is a great way to learn about additional events, resources, and options. The mission of this organization is to facilitate programs that make it easier for companies to grow in East Metro MSP, creating more opportunities for businesses and residents alike.

A strong example of this dedication is the $600,000 Brownfield Coalition Assessment Grant that wrapped up in 2025. This program covered the cost of environmental assessment, cleanup, and revitalization of underused lots. It made it easier for companies to find viable land in desirable areas of Washington County. This grant was also 100% funded with no match required.

The CDA remains committed to helping businesses overcome obstacles so they can provide both careers and amenities to Washington County residents. A diverse business ecosystem is essential for a large, vibrant community like the one found in East Metro MSP. 

Discuss Your Business Needs With Our Team

Your business is important to Washington County. Discuss your future plans, concerns, and opportunities with the CDA and see if our team can help you find the tools and resources you need. If we can’t help, we will try to find someone who can. Contact us today, and let’s move your business forward.