Building a relationship with a small business consultant can be a crucial step in your journey as an entrepreneur. As you prepare to open your business, the Minneapolis Business Technical Assistance Program (B-TAP) provides:

• Training
• Support
• Advice

Find out if you qualify for the Small Business Technical Assistance Program (BTAP)

Find a location

Make sure the location you’ve chosen:

• Is accessible
• Meets all ADA requirements

Get ADA information and assistance from the State of Minnesota

Certain business types are only allowed in certain parts of the City.

It is illegal to run a business in a building that is not permitted or zoned for that type of activity.

Contact us to:

• Make sure your business complies with zoning requirements for your location
• Find out if what steps you need to take to comply

Contact Minneapolis Development Review

You may have to pay a fee for the waste water from your business.

SAC fee application process:

1. Apply for your SAC fee early. This fee can be expensive. 
2. After you apply, the Metropolitan Council will send you a SAC determination letter in 10 to 15 days. This letter will tell you your SAC fee.  

Learn about SAC charges

Learn about our SAC deferral program

Apply online for your SAC fee

Negotiate your lease

Register your business

Read about insurance

Apply for a business license

See Minneapolis business licenses

Post all required materials

You must post the following in your business:

• Your business license
• Occupant load
• Required state labor law permits and posters 

Download free posters from the State of Minnesota

Construction and site plans

See construction permits

Business sign or awning

• Your business must follow sign size and location requirements.
• If you don’t own your building, work with your landlord to put up a new sign or awning. 

See sign permits

Prepare to open