a woman dog groomer
In 2025, 109 small businesses received technical assistance through the Open to Business program, offered in partnership with the Minnesota Consortium of Community Developers.

Small businesses are a major part of what makes Washington County a vibrant place to live. From artisan boutiques and tourism to contractors, financial and insurance services, and technology-based businesses, these employers help create jobs, support families, and contribute to the character of our communities. In fact, most businesses in Washington County are small: 86% have 20 or fewer employees, and 95% have 50 or fewer employees.

The Economic Development Department at the Washington County CDA works with cities, townships, local businesses, and partner organizations to help strengthen our local economy. The department provides technical assistance, connects businesses with resources, supports redevelopment and predevelopment efforts, and helps communities plan for future growth. That work can include helping a business find land or buildings, understand financing options, prepare for expansion or relocation, and navigate complicated development processes.

The CDA also administers programs that help local governments prepare sites for new investment. This includes engineering studies, environmental reviews, brownfield assessments, lead and asbestos testing on blighted buildings that will be redeveloped, and planning support that helps communities decide how to use public resources wisely. Through predevelopment assistance, the CDA has awarded 25 grants totaling more than $475,000 throughout the county, helping leverage more than $2.2 million in matching funds.

Business support is another important part of the department’s work. In 2025, 109 small businesses received technical assistance through the Open to Business program, offered in partnership with the Minnesota Consortium of Community Developers. That program also helped provide $85,000 in business financing within Washington County.

By supporting local businesses, assisting communities, and promoting Washington County as a place to invest and grow, the CDA helps build a stronger economic foundation for residents today and for the future.

 

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