Item Description:
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Neg 7 Agmts for cohort-based small business programming, 01/01/26-12/31/26, total combined NTE $612,500
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Resolution:
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BE IT RESOLVED, that the Executive Director be authorized to negotiate the following Agreements to provide cohort-based small business programming:
* PR00008110 Talon Performance Group, Inc.
* PR00008111 Simon and Associates, LLC dba Simon Says Lead
* PR00007989 Minneapolis Business Mentors
* PR00007990 Co.Starters Inc.
* PR00007991 Simon and Associates, LLC dba Simon Says Lead
* PR00007992 Certified Access, LLC
* PR00007993 The Coven, Inc.
all during the period of January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2026 with a total combined not to exceed amount of $612,500; with the option for the Authority to amend the Agreements to adjust any individual not to exceed amount within the total combined not to exceed amount within the agreement period; that following review and approval by the County Attorney's Office, the Chair be authorized to sign the agreements on behalf of the Authority; and that the Controller be authorized to disburse funds as directed.
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Background:
In addition to one-on-one consulting provided by Elevate Hennepin, Hennepin County supports a series of small business learning opportunities that provide in-depth training over several weeks or months in a cohort setting. By offering programs in a cohort setting, the Hennepin County Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HCHRA) fosters peer-to-peer connections among diverse business owners across industries that often last beyond the duration of the program.
A core set of HCHRA programs-CEO Start, CEO Now, and CEO Next-have been designed and developed strategically to support business owners at key phases of their growth, from idea to second stage. Two additional programs, Certified Access and HR Next, have been developed by local business leaders to address specific business needs. Certified Access supports disadvantaged businesses interested in pursu...
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