New American Development Center

09/04/2026

The New American Development Center (NADC), in partnership with the City of Minneapolis Business District Support (BDS) Program, hosted a meeting for Somali business owners in Minneapolis, particularly those located in South Minneapolis. The meeting introduced a new initiative to strengthen and unify the identity of the Franklin Avenue business district and its surrounding areas.

The program focuses on creating a unified brand for the district, developing a digital directory of Somali and East African-owned businesses, and increasing the district’s visibility through marketing materials, banners, maps, and multilingual outreach in Somali, Oromo, Amharic, and English.

In addition, NADC will organize ongoing events and promotional campaigns to support local businesses, attract more customers, and strengthen the economic vitality and visibility of the Franklin Avenue businesses.

07/29/2026

Join us for the launch of the 2026 Candidate Housing Questionnaire and help put housing on the ballot in MN's 2026 elections.

07/29/2026

Small businesses are a cornerstone of strong communities. Today, we're proud to announce $2.43 million in grants to 19 nonprofit organizations working to help entrepreneurs thrive, strengthen neighborhood business districts, and build a stronger regional economy.

This year, we adapted our Economic Mobility grants to respond to urgent community needs. By making larger, two-year investments in a smaller group of nonprofit partners, we're helping ensure small businesses have the support they need to recover and thrive.

Congratulations to this year's grantees:

African Career, Education and Resource, Inc. (ACER) | African Development Center | African Economic Development Solutions (AEDS) of Minnesota | Coalition of Asian American Leaders - CAAL | First Children's Finance | Lake Street Council | LEDC-MN | LISC Twin Cities | MEDA: Metropolitan Economic Development Association | Minnesota Consortium of Community Developers | Mni Sota Fund | Neighborhood Development Center | New American Development Center| Northside Economic Opportunity Network | PFund Foundation | Redesign, Inc. | West Bank Minneapolis | West Broadway Business & Area Coalition | WomenVenture

06/01/2026

The New American Development Center (NADC) is now accepting applications for our Spring Entrepreneurship Cohort!

This program is designed to support aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and guidance needed to start or grow a successful business.

What you will gain:

Business planning and development support
Financial literacy and access to capital guidance
Marketing and operations strategies
Mentorship from experienced professionals
Networking with other entrepreneurs
Who should apply:

Aspiring entrepreneurs with a business idea
Small business owners looking to grow or strengthen their business
Program Details:

Limited spots available
Hands-on training and personalized support
Register today to secure your spot!
For more information or to apply, please contact NADC.
[email protected]

The New American Development Center (NADC) is now accepting applications for our Spring Entrepreneurship Cohort! This program is designed to support aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the tools, knowledge, and guidance needed to start or grow a successful business. What you will gain: Business...

01/08/2026

The Alliance stands in solidarity with immigrant and refugee communities being terrorized across the Twin Cities. We condemn the murder of one of our Minneapolis neighbors. We call on elected officials at all levels to do whatever is in their power to protect our people.

Show up and speak out how ever you can. We keep us safe.

05/16/2025

We just wrapped up a powerful three-day convening for the Healthy Regions Planning Exchange here in Minneapolis—an annual national gathering where government and nonprofit regional planners come together to share, learn, and grow. This year, New American Development Center was proud to co-host the event alongside the Native American Community Development Institute - NACDI, and the The Alliance

As I reflect on this gathering where organizations and advocates from across the country united to solve regional development challenges, I am reminded of the strength found in shared experiences and collective wisdom. This convening created space for meaningful dialogue, idea exchange, and learning around our ongoing work in economic justice, social justice, housing justice, city planning, public transit, and more.

As part of the convening, regional leaders visited Karmel Mall, where they met with Somali small business owners, enjoyed tea and sambusas, some had henna, and experienced the vibrant atmosphere of this immigrant cultural hub in the heart of South Minneapolis.

Despite the persistent systemic and cultural challenges we face, this gathering affirmed that we are not alone. Our shared commitment to building just, healthy, and inclusive communities remains not only necessary but deeply powerful.

04/29/2025

Congratulations to our Spring Entrepreneurship graduates! The journey of building your own business has just begun.

02/17/2025

02/17/2025

The New American Development Center’s entrepreneurship training cohort is underway, equipping aspiring entrepreneurs with essential business skills. Participants learn business planning, financial management, marketing, licensing, tax compliance, and accessing capital. The program also covers customer service, digital presence, and networking to support sustainable business growth.

10/08/2024

The New American Development Center Youth Development Cohort believes that having authentic youth participation is key to addressing the ever-changing challenges they face.

Eden Prairie teens gather for a unique Friday night program, preparing for future challenges and embracing Somali American identity and community.