Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

06/13/2026

Minnesota takes the top spot! A major new study just ranked our state No. 1 for overall quality of life — proving once again that there’s no better place to live, work, and thrive. Read more: https://nyti.ms/3QB594V

06/11/2026

Visit CareerForce.MN.gov - and get started on a successful job search! It's official: as of today, CareerForce.MN.gov is Minnesota's new state labor exchange. Find out how this mobile-friendly and easy to use website can help you find your next employment opportunity! https://careerforce.mn.gov/


Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development

06/11/2026

We’ve refreshed DoBusiness.MN.gov to make doing business in Minnesota even easier. From startup guidance to expansion resources, you can now find everything you need in just a few clicks!

06/10/2026

Liz Prosnick opened Duluth’s first float therapy center with assistance from Northland SBDC. Northern Waters Float Center owns two float orbs and offers Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy (REST) – a relaxing experience where clients float weightlessly in high-salinity water designed to calm the body and mind.

“I had been floating for the previous eight years, and when I relocated, I saw an opportunity to bring float therapy to Duluth,” Liz said.

To bring her vision to life, Liz turned to the Northland SBDC. She worked with consultant Curt Walczak to refine her business plan, develop financial projections, understand the LLC registration process, and navigate funding options.

Now in operation, Northern Waters Float is gaining traction as a wellness destination in the region. Liz is excited for the winter season, when her warm, sensory-friendly environment offers a cozy escape from the Northland cold.

Connect with your local SBDC: https://bit.ly/2Fogw91

06/09/2026

Your dollars have power and they can power Minnesota. From coffee shops to craft makers to family‑run storefronts, local businesses are the heartbeat of our communities. Continue to make it a habit to Think MN First whenever you shop. See resources at: choosemn.com

06/07/2026

Another example of large, influential companies choosing Minnesota. Check out the full story: https://bit.ly/4uYTlZq

After a few leaner years, Minnesota is back up to 18 companies on the list.

06/05/2026

The new DoBusiness.MN.gov is live! Explore a cleaner design, easier navigation, and faster access to the tools Minnesota businesses need to start, grow, and thrive. Check it out today!

06/04/2026

DEED’s support for the Growing Careers in Agriculture program shows our mission in action: expanding opportunity, strengthening Minnesota’s rural workforce, and helping residents build skills for high‑demand agricultural careers. Read more: https://bit.ly/4dXi6NY 🌱🚜

06/03/2026

Join us for our next monthly Small Business Call on e-commerce! 🛍️

Selling online doesn’t have to be complicated or technical. In this practical session, small business owners will learn the simple building blocks of e-commerce — how to help customers find you, understand what you offer, and confidently complete a purchase or booking.

Register here: https://bit.ly/4uz6vM9

06/02/2026

Felisha Fox created the LilyPAD to help individuals overcome needle phobias. The device, developed by her company FeVi, helps patients who experience fear and pain with injections by using gentle, science-backed sensory stimulation and customizable distraction to bring comfort and confidence to children and adults alike.

FeVi was awarded a grant through DEED’s Launch Minnesota program in November 2023. Since then, the company has made significant strides toward becoming a standard-of-care injection comfort device.
Felisha completed a prototype of the device and submitted a patent. She also closed a funding round of more than $20,000 in under two months. Most recently, she was selected for a fellowship that comes with $120,000 in non-dilutive funding over two years.

“The Launch Minnesota grant was one of the first validations that this idea was worth pursuing seriously,” Felisha said. “It helped me take LilyPAD from science fair project to a medical device company, and I’m grateful for the role it played in getting us here.”