MEDA: Metropolitan Economic Development Association

MEDA: Metropolitan Economic Development Association Meda provides one-on-one business consulting, access to capital, and market opportunities. Department of Commerce. Meda is also a U.S.

Founded in 1971, MEDA provides services that foster economic equity and support an inclusive future for underserved entrepreneurs throughout the Twin Cities and Minnesota. Since its beginning in 1971, Meda has helped over 25,000 minority entrepreneurs and assisted in the startup of more than 600 businesses. Meda also operates a business development center under cooperative agreement with the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) of the U.S. The Minneapolis MBDA Business Center connects Minnesota Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) with business opportunities. Department of the Treasury certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI).

Inviting everyone to consider the significance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. As we reflect on our nation’s history, we hon...
10/12/2026

Inviting everyone to consider the significance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. As we reflect on our nation’s history, we honor and celebrate the rich cultures and enduring resilience of Minnesota's 11 tribal nations and Indigenous communities across the United States.

Congratulations to Janeth Gabagambi, owner of Joy Catering Services , on closing on a loan to provide working capital fo...
10/08/2026

Congratulations to Janeth Gabagambi, owner of Joy Catering Services , on closing on a loan to provide working capital for continued growth of her catering business. 🎉

Joy Catering offers a diverse menu featuring African and American Cuisine, with customized catering for weddings, graduations, corporate events, and more.

With this financing, Joy Catering plans to expand its service capacity, expand delivery and meal preparation services, and pursue new opportunities including corporate catering contracts and larger events. The business also plans to create new jobs by adding a cook, full-time server and delivery personnel.

We’re proud to support Joy Catering as the business grows its presence in Minnesota and continues serving its community. Congratulations, Janeth! 🎉

For Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight more of the many outstanding Hispanic business leaders working wit...
10/07/2026

For Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight more of the many outstanding Hispanic business leaders working with MEDA.

🌱 Krystell Theisen Escobar, owner of Eco Chico, a sustainable kids’ resale boutique for eco-conscious parents.

❤️ Jansel Hernandez, owner of Casa De Corazon, an intercultural early learning program serving families in the community.

🏡 Ilitch Diaz Gutierrez, owner of Spirit Care Homes, offering assisted living and memory care services in Minnetonka.

MEDA is honored to support entrepreneurs like Krystell, Jansel, and Ilitch, who are creating impact through entrepreneurship, cultural understanding, and community engagement.

Learn more about how MEDA supports BIPOC businesses at MEDA.net.

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight some of the many outstanding Hispanic business leaders wo...
10/02/2026

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight some of the many outstanding Hispanic business leaders working with MEDA and making an impact through entrepreneurship.

💻 Novelli Jurado, owner of Novart Media, a Minneapolis-based digital marketing agency.

🎪 Kristina Urvina, owner of Exhibit Staffing LLC, providing premier event staffing and experiential marketing solutions designed to amplify brand engagement.

✈️ Carlos Lopez, owner of Casa Travel, helping businesses increase their effectiveness with robust airfare products and technology.

🌎 Jose Tori-Maguina, owner of MINT, providing professional interpreting and translation services.

MEDA is honored to support leaders like these who are strengthening their businesses, creating opportunities, and contributing to vibrant communities across the Twin Cities.

Learn more about how MEDA supports BIPOC businesses at MEDA.net.

Congratulations to Taina Bargos, owner of Avivage Massage on closing on a PROMISE Act loan to purchase property at 595 S...
10/02/2026

Congratulations to Taina Bargos, owner of Avivage Massage on closing on a PROMISE Act loan to purchase property at 595 Selby Ave in St. Paul! 🎉

Avivage Massage has provided professional massage therapy and wellness services to clients throughout the Twin Cities for more than 16 years, building a loyal customer base and a reputation for its specialized massage offerings. Since purchasing the business in 2010, Taina has grown Avivage Massage into an established wellness practice with sustained business growth with strong customer retention.

The new property will provide the company with a permanent home that allows for expanded massage offerings, a parking lot and accessible spaces, and increased wellness product offerings.

Taina brought a personal touch to the closing and shared tea and music to celebrate the milestone. ☕🎶

This PROMISE Act loan was made in participation with the Latino Economic Development Corporation (LEDC), helping Taina take the next step in building her business through commercial property ownership.

Congratulations, Taina!

At MEDA, we’re proud to spotlight our clients and celebrate the positive impact they make in their communities. In honor...
10/01/2026

At MEDA, we’re proud to spotlight our clients and celebrate the positive impact they make in their communities. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, we were delighted to showcase five Minnesota Hispanic-owned businesses on WCCO Mid-Morning:

Healthy Eating on the Go, founded by Cristiane Taylor
Abogado’s Café, founded by Ofelia Ponce and Inti Martinez-Aleman
Global Center Meats, founded by Alejandro Pinto
Eco Chico, founded by Krystell Theisen Escobar
Casa de Corazon, founded by Jansel Hernandez
It’s an honor to support these inspiring entrepreneurs, amplify their stories, and introduce their businesses to a wider audience.

Watch the segment here: https://www.cbsnews.com/minnesota/video/hispanic-owned-businesses-in-the-twin-cities-to-visit-in-september/

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight some of the many outstanding Hispanic business leade...
09/23/2026

In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to spotlight some of the many outstanding Hispanic business leaders working with MEDA.

• Elise Hernandez owns Ideal System Solutions, providing IT consulting, integrated solutions, and professional services.

• Steve Martinez owns Martinez Geospatial, offering planning services, land surveys, consulting for construction, infrastructure, and architectural planning using the latest technology.

• Rosario Goze owns Omni Pro, a WBE/MBE/SBE certified company providing professional support and service for commercial insulation needs.

• Oscar Ramirez owns CRCI LLC, offering businesses industrial cleaning services.

MEDA is honored to support leaders like these, who are creating impact through entrepreneurship, cultural understanding, and community engagement.

Learn more about how MEDA supports BIPOC businesses at MEDA.net.

Congratulations to Jeffrey Herman for closing on a MN PROMISE Act loan to refinance his commercial property at 825 Glenw...
09/22/2026

Congratulations to Jeffrey Herman for closing on a MN PROMISE Act loan to refinance his commercial property at 825 Glenwood Avenue in North Minneapolis!🎉

For nearly 20 years, the property – home to Glenwood Showroom – has served as a commercial anchor in the Harrison neighborhood, supporting independent local businesses and contributing to economic activity along the corridor.

The property is home to HiFi Sound, a Twin Cities institution that has served audio enthusiasts for more than 70 years. It will also welcome Vujovich Design Build, Inc. , one of the Twin Cities’ longest-standing design-build firms, as a new anchor tenant. The loan will support tenant improvements for the space without rent increases.

MEDA is proud to support Glenwood Showroom through the MN PROMISE Act as this North Minneapolis commercial property continues to create space for local businesses, jobs and economic opportunity.

Congratulations to Northside Economic Opportunity Network on its 20th anniversary and incredible contributions to small ...
09/22/2026

Congratulations to Northside Economic Opportunity Network on its 20th anniversary and incredible contributions to small businesses in North Minneapolis NEON’s deb debt-free collective kitchen is already creating new economic opportunities along West Broadway and making an impact.

Saturday’s gala was a wonderful celebration with many friends, including Senator Bobbie Joe Champion, the lead author of the MN PROMISE Act and MEDA client Lashonda Flowers, owner of the Beautiful Beginnings Learning Center in North Minneapolis.

MEDA is proud to stand alongside partners like NEON who are working to expand economic opportunity and strengthen our community. Here’s to celebrating 20 years of impact and the work still ahead.

Congratulations to Stuart Ackerberg and Jackie Knight on closing on a PROMISE Act loan to refinance the existing commerc...
09/18/2026

Congratulations to Stuart Ackerberg and Jackie Knight on closing on a PROMISE Act loan to refinance the existing commercial real estate loan on their property at 611 W Lake Street in Minneapolis! 🎉

The property is home to 14 office and retail small businesses (including new local favorite Haraz Coffee House) that together retain approximately 50-100 jobs. The refinancing will help Marbilll Properties maintain affordable financing for the property and create an opportunity to reinvest in direct support for the small businesses operating there.

Located in an area deeply impacted by the civil unrest following the killings of George Floyd and Winston Smith, the property represents an important part of the local business community. Supporting the stability of commercial properties like this one helps create a stronger environment for small businesses to grow, create jobs, and help rebuild neighborhoods.

Through the Minnesota PROMISE Act, MEDA is proud to provide financing that helps preserve and improve commercial real estate, support small businesses, and strengthen neighborhoods throughout the Twin Cities.

Congratulations, Stuart and Jackie! We’re proud to be part of reinvesting in our communities.

Address

1256 Penn Avenue N #4800
Minneapolis, MN
55411

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

Telephone

+16123326332

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