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Success stories

Entrepreneurs power their success with Elevate Hennepin

Real-life examples of business success from Elevate Hennepin

The results speak for themselves: see how entrepreneurs like you are growing their businesses, gaining confidence as business owners, and building their skills with the support of Elevate Hennepin.

Soren Aster, founder of The Clay Pit
Featured Success Story

The Clay Pit builds community with Elevate Hennepin guidance

When Soren Aster saw a pottery studio open up, they leaned on Elevate Hennepin for support to finance and lease what would become The Clay Pit. 
Kyle Kettering founder of Copperwing Distilling

CEO Now offers strategy, hope for Copperwing Distillery

Kyle Kettering, the owner of Copperwing Distillery joined CEO Now for some hope, and came away with a solid strategy to move forward. 
Hannah Olson, founder of Happy Jolly Llamas

How a love of llamas turned into a business idea

With support from Elevate Hennepin, Hannah Olson launched a llama-themed event business.

The Minnesota State Capitol

Five 2025 legal updates businesses should know about

Every new year comes with some new laws, and business owners and entrepreneurs should be mindful of a few key items this year. 
Love local sign

In Hennepin County, we Love Local

Year round, the Hennepin County Community and Economic Development team works to catalyze a strong business community. And around Small Business Saturday, we celebrate all things local.

Treasury FinCEN logo

Elevate Hennepin FinCEN reporting guide

Most small businesses and operating entrepreneurs need to register with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) by January 1, 2025. Follow this guide to report your business or connect with Elevate Hennepin for support.
Yolanda Friday founder of Friday Financial Services

Modernizing Friday Financial Services in CEO Start

To modernize her business, Yolanda Friday joined CEO Start and found peer support, expert guidance, and a new vision for her company. 

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Applications for CEO Next, a group-learning opportunity that provides practical tools and techniques for CEOs and business leaders and is designed specifically for growing regional businesses.

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Applications are now open for CEO Now, a cohort opportunity designed to help established, growth-minded business owners and founders with employees to build and strengthen systems to keep growing.