Minnesota companies fund $3.5M in grants to help small businesses during ICE surge

January 27, 2026 - 18:14

A coalition of major Minnesota-based corporations has contributed $3.5 million to create an emergency grant fund for small businesses facing financial strain. The initiative, administered by The Minneapolis Foundation, aims to provide a critical lifeline to local enterprises struggling with rising operational costs.

The fund will distribute grants to help qualifying small businesses cover essential expenses such as payroll, rent, and utilities. This direct financial support is intended to stabilize operations and prevent closures during a period of economic pressure. The contributing companies include corporate giants Target, General Mills, and Ecolab, highlighting a significant private-sector response to community needs.

Eligibility for the grants will prioritize small businesses within the Twin Cities metro area, with a focus on those that have demonstrated historical community impact and those owned by individuals from underrepresented groups. The program underscores a broader effort to maintain the vitality and diversity of the local business landscape during challenging times, ensuring that neighborhood staples and employers can continue to serve their communities.