Many people with low and unstable incomes start a business. Their entrepreneurial drive is rooted in community and the need to put food on the table.

Of course, you need money to start a business. Money is a tool--a powerful tool. But money is far from the most important ingredient. Opening a business takes an idea, a passion and, as we find out in this episode, community. Additional Resources:

An ecology of knowledge, advice, and support for would-be entrepreneurs exists in Minnesota and elsewhere. The organizations listed here offer a wide range of support and services for anyone looking to start a business. Each one of these links offers a variety of additional links and opportunities for the entrepreneur-to-be to explore.

WomenVenture

Meda – Metropolitan Economic Development Association

SCORE – retired executives counsel small business owners

Neighborhood Development Center (NDC)

Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD)

Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)

Latino Economic Development Center (LEDC)

Southwest Initiative Foundation

African Development Center of MN

Small Business Administration (SBA)

Small Business Development Centers: SBDCs offer one-stop assistance to individuals and small businesses by providing a wide variety of information and guidance.