Blaine BizConnect Special Edition: COVID-19 Resources

Blaine businesses, whether large or small, are an integral part of the economic health of the community. The city has been working diligently to maintain operations during this unprecedented time.

The city also recognizes its role in communicating with our business community. Below is information related to emergency loan programs, changes in city policy, and how to stay informed.

Small Business Administration (SBA)

The SBA has information regarding loan programs and other various resources on their webpage, sba.gov.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED)

Governor Walz announced Executive Order 20-15 to offer emergency help for business owners affected by the temporary closures under EO 20-04 and 20-08 who do not have enough cash flow to meet their basic family needs. The order directs DEED to create a Small Business Emergency Loan Program. The program will make $30 million available for loans of between $2,500 and $35,000 for qualifying small businesses. The loans will be 50 percent forgivable, and offered at a 0 percent interest rate. For more information, please visit DEEDs website at mn.gov/deed/.

These emergency loans will be made by an existing network of lenders. Blaine partners at the Central Minnesota Development Co. (CMDC) in Andover are one of the approved lenders. You can fax them your application directly at 763-784-3338 or email it to Mike Mulrooney mike@cmdcbusinessloans.com. You can also call them directly at 763-784-3337 with questions. Please note, they are receiving 3-5 calls a minute, so while they are answering the calls in the order received, please be patient.

City of Blaine Temporary Sign Policy Changes

The City of Blaine recognizes the need for businesses to advertise during this difficult time. Therefore, the city has implemented a temporary policy for temporary signage. Typically, businesses are allowed four temporary sign permits per year for 14 days at a time. The permit fee is $50 per 14-day period. The city is implementing a temporary policy that waives the permit fee for temporary signage and does not count any temporary signage through April 15 against their yearly allotment. This applies to all businesses. Signage must still meet city requirements for location, size, etc. For specific details, please contact the City of Blaine Planning Department at 763-785-6180 or at probinson@blainemn.gov. Staff will reassess the situation as we get closer to April 15.

MetroNorth Chamber of Commerce

The MetroNorth Chamber has created a Facebook page called MetroNorth Cares. Please visit this page for updates on local businesses in our community. There are also resources available at metronorthchamber.org/.

Contact Us

If you have questions about any of the loan programs or general inquiries about operations at the City of Blaine, please contact Community Development Director, Erik Thorvig at ethorvig@blainemn.gov.

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