Best Small Business Resources in the Rochester Area
Starting a business is a life-changing experience. Minnesota has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Rochester area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in Minnesota.
Resources Available in your Area
Southeast MnSBDC
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Collider Coworking
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
Collider is a hub for local and visiting entrepreneurs, freelancers and remote workers to work, learn and connect. They offer desk and conference room space to members and visitors in a unique historic setting. Collider also offers monthly events and educational opportunities for their growing community.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
Mayo Clinic
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
Mayo Clinic offers an Entrepreneur in Residence Program that aims to help business owners in the tech or medical industry. This program offers mentoring through technical experts who can help you develop your prototype. They also run the Mayo Clinic Business Accelerator.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Minnesota BioBusiness Center - 4th Floor, 221 First Avenue SW
Rochester, MN 55902
507-293-3900
mayoclinicventures@mayo.edu
Rochester Public Library
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Accepts Walks In
Description
The Rochester Public Library has databases useful for market research, alongside the enormous selection of business related books and articles. You can also schedule one-on-one meetings with a librarian if you need help utilizing resources.
Restrictions
Library card required for most services.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
101 2nd Street SE
Rochester, MN 55904
507-328-2300
HOURS OF OPERATION:
MON - THU: 9:30 am - 9 pm
FRI - SAT: 9:30A am - 5:30 pm
SUN: 1:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Rochester SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
Works with Companies in These Stages:
Idea
Planning
Startup
Growth