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Duluth to Host Business Resources Summit on May 2^nd

Entrepreneurs and industry experts to speak

[Duluth, MN] –  Mayor Emily Larson, several City of Duluth departments, the University of Minnesota Duluth Center for Economic Development (UMD CED) and the Entrepreneur Fund are hosting a first of its kind Mayor's Business Resources Summit for area businesses to have direct access to experts on new City programs and loan opportunities, learn from innovative business owners who will share their experiences, hear about other community programs, and gain insight on how businesses can work with the City to benefit their company and achieve success.

As a former business owner, Duluth Mayor Emily Larson is committed to supporting entrepreneurs who help drive economic growth. “Duluth is changing how it connects and works with businesses, and especially small businesses. This Summit is intended to be a venue for open exchange of ideas and learning among partners. Hosting a summit is a new step for the City, but not one we do alone. Our partners at the University of Minnesota Center for Economic Development and the Entrepreneur Fund offer expertise and products that complement our work. Our goal is to be a resource for businesses as they navigate through their journey. I encourage anyone to attend, even those who are just developing ideas. Knowledge is critical at any stage of business development.”   

The Business Summit will take place on:

When: Tuesday, May 2, 2017 from 7:30 - 9:00 AM

Where: Clyde Iron Works, 2920 West Michigan Street 

What: breakfast and panelists of experts will speak followed by networking opportunity –

Cost: $15 covers breakfast

Registration is provided by UMD CED at,  Click Here

“We are thrilled to provide this summit during National Small Business Week. We have creative entrepreneurs that are using their skills and talents to strengthen our local economy. The City wants to be a partner in helping them succeed and be sustainable. We are listening and learning and are proud to have new resource programs to address unmet needs. We want Duluth to be known for its great outdoors but also as a great place for business. This summit is just the first of many opportunities we hope to create,” said Heather Rand, Director of the City’s Economic and Workforce Development office.  

"The UMD Center for Economic Development (CED) business consultants are honored to partner with the Mayor and others from the City of Duluth to showcase the resources available to the entrepreneurs and businesses in our City.  This will be an exciting event," said Elaine Hansen, Director of the UMD CED, the regional Small Business Development Center (SBDC) in Duluth and NE Minnesota.  


Attendees will hear from City experts about the services and programs available to businesses, how to navigate city policies and procedures, hear from successful small business owners and have a chance to connect with local lenders and additional industry resources to help advance ideas, spur growth and prosperity.   

As co-sponsor of the event, Shawn Wellnitz, CEO of the Entrepreneur Fund had this to say, “The City of Duluth has been a great resource for our clients – from just starting to expanding.  This will be a great opportunity for business owners to come together, in one place, and learn about the resources available in the City of Duluth.”

The Summit is co-sponsored with the University of Minnesota Duluth Center for Economic Development and the Entrepreneur Fund. Questions about the Summit can be directed to Pakou Ly, in the City’s Communications Office at (218) 730-5309 or ply@duluthmn.gov

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