2025 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference
Virginia, Minnesota
March 20-21, 2025
Embedded Files
The 2025 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities conference features 14 breakout sessions focused on supporting entrepreneurs, three featured speakers, and an evening networking event.
Breakout session tracks:
Equity in Entrepreneurship - Focuses on creative ways to better support underserved entrepreneurs in rural communities.
Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research and Data - Showcases current economic, demographic, and industry-related research and data that can help inform people leading community entrepreneurship efforts.
Case Studies in Entrepreneurship Support - Features presentations on specific entrepreneurial projects and how the regional technical and financial assistance ecosystem supported these projects.
Essential Knowledge for Building Local Entrepreneurial Ecosystems - Provides information and discussion for those who are in the early stages of building a community entrepreneurship development approach.
For additional session details, see the conference schedule below or view the conference program booklet here.
Conference Schedule
Conference Schedule
Thursday, March 20, 2025
Thursday, March 20, 2025
11:00-11:30 a.m. Registration and lunch available
11:00-11:30 a.m. Registration and lunch available
11:30-12:15 p.m. Welcome and Keynote
11:30-12:15 p.m. Welcome and Keynote
Location: Iron Trail Motors Event Center
The Past, Present, and Future of the Iron Range Economy & Entrepreneurship
Description: Commissioner Rukavina will discuss the past, present, and future of the Iron Range economy and the ways entrepreneurship connects to building a stronger regional economy. This will serve as an introduction to the Iron Range.
Presenter: Ida Rukavina, Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation
12:15-12:45 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 1
12:15-12:45 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 1
Breakout sessions are located throughout downtown Virginia. Use this time to travel to your next session. Take a few minutes to explore the fantastic businesses along the way.
12:45-1:45 p.m. Breakout Session 1
12:45-1:45 p.m. Breakout Session 1
Workshop 1A: Welcoming Communities: A Key Component of Economic Growth and Entrepreneurship
Track: Equity in Entrepreneurship
Location: Cultures, Humanities, and Arts on the Iron Range (510 Chestnut St, Virginia)
Description: Join us for a conversation on how a genuinely welcoming community can spark connections and build capacity to support local entrepreneurial success. We’ll share insights drawn from our work in northeast Minnesota, where inclusive dialogue and authentic relationships break down barriers and open doors for business ideas to thrive. This session offers community leaders and economic developers practical strategies to identify challenges and engage in efforts to build vibrant local economies rooted in welcoming all.
Presenter: Amber Lewis, Northspan
Workshop 1B: BBER Research and UMD Student Resources for Businesses
Track: Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research and Data
Location: Northeast Technical Services (526 Chestnut St)
Description: The UMD Bureau of Business and Economic Research (BBER) offers various services that support entrepreneurs and communities across Minnesota. In this session, Monica Haynes, BBER Director, will share the student resources businesses across the region can tap into.
Presenter: Monica Haynes, Business and Economic Research and Adjunct Professor of Economics
Workshop 1C: Disaster Recovery / Business Continuation
Track: Case Studies in Entrepreneurship Support
Location: Maco Theater (415 Chestnut St)
Description: In June 2024, major flooding impacted residents and businesses in Cook, Minnesota. In this session, you’ll learn about the resources and support that Cook has provided businesses and entrepreneurs to help them recover. Cook worked closely with partners from Entrepreneur Fund, FEMA, SBA, the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board, and the State of Minnesota to coordinate efforts and ensure that businesses had the resources they needed to recover.
Presenter: JoAnn Smith, Entrepreneur Fund
Workshop 1D: What Is an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem?
Track: Essential Knowledge for Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Location: Canelake's Candies (414 Chestnut St)
Description: This session is for community leaders and economic developers who are just starting to consider entrepreneurship as an economic development strategy. Learn what the phrase “entrepreneurial ecosystem” means and what you can start to build in your own local community.
Presenters: Neil Linscheid, University of Minnesota Extension
1:45-2:15 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 2
1:45-2:15 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 2
Breakout sessions are located throughout downtown Virginia. Use this time to travel to your next session. Take a few minutes to explore the fantastic businesses along the way.
2:15-3:15 p.m. Breakout Session 2
2:15-3:15 p.m. Breakout Session 2
Workshop 2A: What Does an Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Really Mean?
Track: Equity in Entrepreneurship
Location: Canelake's Candies (414 Chestnut St)
Description: What does it really mean when people talk about an equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem? Jason Schneider from Civic Possible shares the work communities nationwide (and worldwide) are doing to answer that question and how your community might get the same conversations started. Jason has worked closely with Main Street’s Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem in Minnesota, and will share practical knowledge about how to reframe your local entrepreneurial supports.
Presenter: Jason Schneider, Civic Possible
Workshop 2B: Demographic and Labor Force Data
Track: Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research and Data
Location: Frandsen Bank (501 Chestnut St)
Description: Entrepreneurs and community leaders benefit from a strong understanding of the demographic and labor force data available to them. In this session, Carson Gorecki, Labor Market Analyst with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), will highlight key demographic and workforce trends, sharing essential data insights. Shayla Drake, Workforce Strategy Consultant with DEED, will provide practical guidance on how to apply these insights, incorporating workforce strategy perspectives, industry trends, and actionable solutions for businesses and communities.
Presenters: Carson Gorecki, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, Shayla Drake, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
Workshop 2C: Case Studies in Success with the Small Business Development Center
Track: Case Studies in Entrepreneurship Support
Location: Cultures, Humanities, and Arts on the Iron Range (510 Chestnut St, Virginia)
Description: Small Business Development Centers are foundational resources for entrepreneurs everywhere. In this session, Northland SBDC leaders will share real-world case studies, showing how local entrepreneurs and small business owners have effectively tapped into SBDC resources and networks to launch and grow their ventures.
Presenters: Vicki Hagberg, Northland Small Business Development Center
Workshop 2D: How Are You Supporting Your Entrepreneurs to Start & Grow?
Track: Essential Knowledge for Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Location: Northeast Technical Services (526 Chestnut St)
Description: Attention all community leaders and entrepreneurs in Minnesota! Make sure you have your regional Launch MN hub leader on speed dial! Why? Because during this dynamic panel discussion, you'll discover how Launch MN Hubs are supercharging local economies by investing in innovative people and groundbreaking ideas. Don't miss out! Join us to get inspired, make powerful connections, and be part of the movement that's transforming our communities. Let's grow together!
Presenters: Elissa Hansen, Northspan/DAWN; Brian Huch, Launchpad/Headwaters Angel Network; Jeff Wig, Consultant, FastLane 94/Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation; Nick Tietz, ILT Studios
3:15-3:45 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 3
3:15-3:45 p.m. Travel to Breakout Session 3
Breakout sessions are located throughout downtown Virginia. Use this time to travel to your next session. Take a few minutes to explore the fantastic businesses along the way.
3:45-4:45 p.m. Breakout Session 3
3:45-4:45 p.m. Breakout Session 3
Workshop 3A: Strengthening Neighborhood Economies From Within
Track: Equity in Entrepreneurship
Location: Northeast Technical Services (526 Chestnut St)
Description: Neighborhood Development Center has developed a coordinated 4-prong model of entrepreneur training, 1-on-1 business consulting, lending and real estate assistance that has launched hundreds of lower-income Twin Cities entrepreneurs. Join a discussion of the NDC model, hear from Greater Minnesota organizations who have adapted it in their own communities, and learn how NDC supports them in this work.
Presenters: Renay Dossman and Shahir Ahmed, Neighborhood Development Center
Panel Discussion: Jacob Bell and Cashmere Hagbourne, Family Freedom Center - Duluth; Yoke-Sim Gunaratne and Leena Po, Cultural Diversity Resources – Moorhead; Jeff Wig, Initiative Foundation – Little Falls (moderator).
Workshop 3B: Regional Trends in Entrepreneurship and Making the Case for Entrepreneurship in Your Community
Track: Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Research and Data
Location: Frandsen Bank (501 Chestnut St)
Description: Entrepreneurship is vital to local economic growth, but advocating for increased support can be challenging. In this session, we will share practical insights from our work with communities that have explored the benefits of entrepreneurship with diverse stakeholders. We'll examine how entrepreneurship data differs by location and discuss real-world examples of how communities have organized to support their entrepreneurs effectively.
Presenters: Neil Linscheid, University of Minnesota Extension
Workshop 3C: 5 & Go - From Renting Commercial Kitchen Space to a Food Truck to a Downtown Venue
Track: Case Studies in Entrepreneurship Support
Location: 5 & Go (213 Chestnut St)
Description: Entrepreneurs constantly seek ways to strengthen their businesses, which sometimes requires major transitions. This case study discussion will examine how 5 & Go evolved from launching in a rented commercial kitchen to operating a food truck and eventually establishing a downtown venue.
Presenters: Alex Haugen and Jarod Green - Owners 5 & Go
Workshop 3D: Core Ecosystem Partner: Minnesota’s Statewide Library Network
Track: Essential Knowledge for Building Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
Location: Virginia Public Library (215 S 5th Ave)
Description: Local and regional libraries provide a wealth of resources and programs to support entrepreneurs. This session will introduce the tools and services available through the Arrowhead Library System and the statewide Minitex system, helping entrepreneurs access valuable information, research, and support for their businesses.
Presenters: Mollie Stanford, Arrowhead Library System; Maggie Snow, Minitex
4:45-5:15 p.m. Break
4:45-5:15 p.m. Break
5:15-7:00 p.m. Reception and Networking Event
5:15-7:00 p.m. Reception and Networking Event
Location: Virginia Elks Lodge (220 N 5th Ave W)
Friday, March 21, 2025
Friday, March 21, 2025
8:00-9:00 a.m. Morning Keynote
8:00-9:00 a.m. Morning Keynote
Location: Iron Trail Motors Event Center
How to Build 'Buzz' in Rural Entrepreneurship
Description: Iron Range author and columnist Aaron Brown looks to small-town history and future trends for ways to rebuild vibrant, economically diverse human networks in today's rural communities. The rise of boomtowns 100 years ago gave lessons in how competitive interests can collaborate to attract business. Economic busts give lessons on how to avoid pitfalls and survive hard times. Brown blends research, journalism, and humor to tell useful stories about greater Minnesota
Presenter: Aaron J. Brown is the author of the book "Overburden: Modern Life on the Iron Range" and the forthcoming book "Power in the Wilderness" (2025). He is a columnist for the Minnesota Star Tribune, Mesabi Tribune, and Minnesota Reformer. He produces programs for KAXE-Northern Community Radio, most recently the historical podcast "Power in the Wilderness," the Great Northern Radio Show, and the political podcast "Dig Deep." He teaches communication for Minnesota North College on its Hibbing campus. He and his family live in Itasca County.
9:00-9:30 a.m. Break & Networking
9:00-9:30 a.m. Break & Networking
9:30-10:30 a.m. Breakout Session 4
9:30-10:30 a.m. Breakout Session 4
Location: Iron Trail Motors Event Center
Workshop 4A: Equitable Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Panel
Track: Equity in Entrepreneurship
Description: The Laurentian Chamber Cohort, along with leaders from Hibbing and Red Wing, will discuss their efforts to build an inclusive and thriving business ecosystem within their historic downtowns. Part of a multi-year grant from Main Street America, these communities are focusing on activating brick-and-mortar downtown spaces for the potential entrepreneurs in their communities right now. They’ll share what they’ve learned, and their new strategies for fostering equity and supporting local entrepreneurs.
Presenter: Representatives from the Laurentian Chamber, Hibbing, and Red Wing, Moderated by Jason Schneider, Civic Possible
Workshop 4B: Action Planning Together
Description: If your mind is buzzing with ideas from the past 24 hours, and you're ready to turn them into action, this session is for you. Join a facilitated discussion with fellow conference participants designed to help you craft a 90-day plan to strengthen your local ecosystem and better engage entrepreneurs before you leave CEC.
Presenters: Neil Linscheid, University of Minnesota Extension
10:30-11:00 a.m. Break & Networking
10:30-11:00 a.m. Break & Networking
11:00-12:00 p.m. Closing Session
11:00-12:00 p.m. Closing Session
Location: Iron Trail Motors Event Center
Keynote Presentation: The Canelake’s Candies Story: Legacy, Succession, and Community Inspiration
Description: Hear about the inspiring story of Virginia’s own Canelake’s Candies. Pamela and Dennis will describe their second-act journey of buying a down long-time business in Downtown Virginia, bringing new excitement & success to that business, and finding joy in helping to inspire entrepreneurs across the community.
Presenters: Pamela Canelake Matson and Dennis Matson, Canelake’s Candies
12:00-12:15 p.m. Closing Remarks and Adjourn
12:00-12:15 p.m. Closing Remarks and Adjourn
Boxed lunches available
Lodging Information
Lodging Information
Nearby Lodging Options
Nearby Lodging Options
Quality Inn & Suites
502 Chestnut St, Virginia, MN 55792
Call (218) 749-1000 or book online to make a reservation
AmericInn by Wyndham Virginia
5480 Mountain Iron Dr, Virginia, MN 55792
Call (218) 741-7839 to make a reservation under the Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference Room Block
Double Queen (20 held) | Block rate: $170 pre-tax
Cut-off date: 2/20/2025
Comfort Inn & Suites Mountain Iron and Virginia
8570 Rock Ridge Dr, Mountain Iron, MN 55768
Call (218) 741-7411 to make a reservation under the Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference Room Block
Double Queen (20 held) | Block rate: $154 pre-tax
Single King (10 held) | Block rate: $144 pre-tax
Cut-off date: 2/20/2025
Lakeshor Motor Inn, Inc.
404 North 6th Avenue, Virginia, MN
Pine View Inn
903 17th Street N, Virginia, MN
Discover the Range
Discover the Range
Discover the Range
Discover Minnesota’s Iron Range! From breathtaking trails and world-class recreation to rich mining heritage and welcoming small-town hospitality, the Iron Range is full of adventure and discovery. Plan your visit and explore all the Iron Range has to offer by visiting ironrange.org.
Take Arrowhead Transit to the Iron Trail Motors Event Center
Take advantage of Arrowhead Transit's convenient and affordable transit options. Arrowhead Transit connects you to all conference venues and hotels, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience. Hop aboard to explore Virginia, a growing Mesabi Iron Range city featuring sports, performing arts, museums, healthcare, new restaurants, hotels, and event spaces. Relax in Olcott Park just up the road, or walk the new Silver Lake trails that connect you to shops, restaurants, hotels, and more.
Find services and schedules at arrowheadtransit.com/iron-trail-motors-event-center/.
Thank you to our 2025 conference sponsors!
Thank you to our 2025 conference sponsors!
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