News & Information

Are you a small city with a population of 3,000 or fewer?
Are you dreaming of growth and development, and a brighter future?
The Rural Capacity Program is your opportunity to turn those dreams into reality!

Why should you apply? Because your city will receive support, resources, and expertise from CEDA to help you achieve your goals thanks to a special appropriation from the State of Minnesota. This includes:

• Up to 135 hours of Technical Assistance: Covered by a special appropriation from the State of Minnesota, along with up to $13,500 CASH in the form of a grant to your city to help implement your program.
• Expert Guidance: CEDA’s team of professionals will work hand-in-hand with your city to create a tailored plan that meets your unique needs.
• Proven Success: CEDA has a proven track record of helping small cities like yours thrive and prosper.
• Strong Community Partnerships: CEDA collaborates with local businesses, organizations, and government agencies to maximize the impact of our programs.

CEDA’s tailored programs are dedicated to addressing the specific challenges faced by small communities like yours. CEDA will work with your city to develop and implement a tailored program that specifically addresses your city’s needs and fits into one of the categories below:

Revolving Loan Funds: Jumpstart your local economy by offering low-interest, gap financing designed to support entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses. Our expert team will guide you through the complex world of creditworthiness, finance and loan administration.

Commercial Exterior Improvement Grants/Loans: Enhance the beauty and vitality of your community by developing grants and loans. Whether it’s sprucing up a specific area or beautifying the entire community, we can help you develop a program unique to your city’s needs.

Business Incubation Programs: We know that nurturing new businesses is essential for growth. Our flexible incubation programs can help you offer rental subsidies, technical assistance, and educational support, making it easier for potential and new entrepreneurs to flourish.

Childcare Incentive Programs: Ensure a brighter future for your youngest residents by supporting existing or new childcare providers. The program we’ve developed assists with licensure fees and continuing education, promoting increased capacity and higher-quality care.

Business Retention and Expansion Program: Building a strong local economy starts with understanding your businesses. Our program facilitates meaningful conversations with local businesses, helping you identify challenges, prioritize solutions, and seize new opportunities for growth.

Rural cities with limited staff, budget, and economic development experience are encouraged to apply. The purpose of this special appropriation from the State of Minnesota is to help the smallest and most rural cities in Minnesota take advantage of economic development opportunities in their communities! You do not need to have an EDA to apply. CEDA will make every effort to equally distribute grant awards throughout Greater Minnesota.

Deadline for applications is December 1, 2025.

Contact CEDA with any questions. 507-867-3164 or email amy.schaefer@cedausa.com