LEDC Newsletter. Volume 1.

LEDC Newsletter. Volume2.

Our programs at the Latino Economic Development Center, are designed to provide assistance on different areas of entrepreneurial activity, from a micro-entrepreneur training course to learn how to write a business plan, business opening phase assistance, real estate purchase and lease contracts, financial assistance, annual performance review, implementing a basic bookkeeping plan, etc.

Micro-entrepreneur training course

This training course consist of 16 training session, 8 of them are in a classroom setting, and 8 are individual sessions. On this course the student is guided though the process of writing a business plan according to their business idea, the student is also provided with information about all kinds of licenses, permits and registrations their business will need in order to start operation in the State of Minnesota, and within the law. The student will also receive information about how to implement a basic bookkeeping system, a basic marketing plan, how to make opening cost projections, and monthly operating expenses projections, as well as sales projections. This course is provided in partnership with the Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) and it is provided two times per year in South Minneapolis, once a year in Northeast Minneapolis, twice a year in East St. Paul, once a year in Northfield and Owatonna. The cost of this training course is based on family size and annual income. For more information, please call 612 879-0124 Extension 5.

Business opening phase and technical assistance

Our business consultants work with you face to face to guide you through the process of obtaining licenses and permits needed in order to start your business in a legal manner within the State of Minnesota. Besides, you will receive advise, about how to implement a basic bookkeeping system, a marketing plan, and business registration.

Financial assistance

Our loan officers will advise and will help the individual to prepare a loan package to obtain business financing from The Minneapolis Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD) if business will be located in Minneapolis and west metro area, or the Neighborhood Development Center (NDC) if business will be located in St. Paul or east metro area. In rural Minnesota we present loan packages to local Initiative foundations or other financial institutions that offer SBA guaranteed business loans. Individuals seeking this kind of assistance are guided and advised about every existing financing option available.

Business issues workshops

About sales and use tax, business income taxes, labor taxes and laws, etc. This are provided in the language of your choice by experts on the field and do not have any additional cost to members of the LEDC.

Other workshops

Financial statement education, understanding of real estate transactions such as lease and purchase contracts, as well as items to consider before signing any binding document.