Business Development Fund Update

(Effective November 2025)

 

The Cook County/Grand Marais Joint Economic Development Authority (EDA) is now accepting applications for the Business Development Fund Grant Program for the 2026 calendar year.

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This reimbursement-based grant program provides up to $25,000 to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs, encourage public-private investment, and strengthen Cook County's overall economy. 

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Applications are accepted year-round and reviewed according to the following 2026 grant cycles and deadlines:

• February 4, 2026 - First Wednesday in February

• May 6, 2026 - First Wednesday in May

• September 2, 2026 - First Wednesday in September

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Applications must be received by midnight on the deadline date to be considered for that cycle. 

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For questions, contact the EDA at director@cookcountymneda.org. 

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Overview

The Business Development Fund supports entrepreneurial initiatives and small businesses in Cook County. The program funds a variety of traditional and non-traditional projects tailored to business needs, helping to create or retain jobs, spur private investment, and diversify the local economy.

 

Funding for the program is provided through the EDA, supported by an annual property-tax levy. Grant availability is limited to the yearly allocation approved by the Cook County Board of Commissioners.  

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Eligible Applicants 

To apply for this program, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

1. The business must be located in or provide services within Cook County, Minnesota.

2. The business must be actively registered and in good standing with the Minnesota Secretary of State.

   • Sole proprietors may submit proof of an active Minnesota State Tax ID number in lieu of registration.​

3. All properties owned by the applicant or business must be current on Cook County property taxes.

4. Applicants located within the City of Grand Marais must be current on city utility accounts.

5. The business must comply with all applicable zoning, permitting, and code requirements. 

6. Only one active grant per business entity is permitted at a time. 

 

Nonprofit organizations, for-profit entities, and entrepreneurs meeting these criteria are eligible to apply. Cities, towns, and other local units of government are not eligible applicants. 

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Program Guidelines
Applicants should review the Program Guidelines (PDF) carefully to confirm eligibility, understand match requirements, and ensure their project aligns with program goals. 

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Match Requirements

Grant requests are subject to the following tiered match formula, which applies different match percentages to each portion of the requested amount:​​

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Portion of Grant Request                      Match Requirement

First $0 – $5,000                                     0% (no match required)

Portion between $5,001 – $10,000       20 %

Portion between $10,001 – $25,000     35 %

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The total required match is calculated by applying these percentages to each portion of the requested grant. Applicants must demonstrate access to the matching funds for the full required amount. 

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Application

Applicants must complete the Application Form (PDF) which includes a checklist of required materials. Submitting an application does not guarantee funding.

 

Submit completed application materials to: director@cookcountymneda.org or via mail to P.O. Box 597, Grand Marais, MN 55604

 

Important Forms:

Program Guidelines

Application Form

Reimbursement Request Form

Final Report Form