A Message from Our Executive Director
As we move into the second half of the year, I am filled with gratitude and optimism for what our community continues to accomplish together.
First, I want to extend a warm welcome to two new members of the LEDC team. Kurt Thompson, Deputy Director, Operations, and Jacob Vasquez, Hospitality & Facilities Operations Manager, bring valuable experience, fresh perspectives and a deep commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening communities. We are excited to have them join us as we continue expanding our work across Minnesota.
Over the past several months, we have also witnessed the power of community in action. When businesses faced extraordinary challenges during Operation Metro Surge, LEDC joined with partners across the state to ensure entrepreneurs had access to critical support.
Together, we deployed more than $1.19 million through 247 grants to Latino and immigrant-owned businesses in communities throughout Minnesota. These businesses employ more than 2,000 people and the funding helped cover expenses such as rent, payroll, utilities, revenue losses and existing loan obligations.
We are deeply grateful to the funders of the East Side Emergency Fund, Minneapolis Emergency Fund and Statewide Emergency Fund, including support from the Minneapolis Foundation, and to the many community partners who made this work possible. Their support helped businesses remain resilient and continue contributing to strong local economies.
We are also thrilled to be approaching a milestone that has been years in the making. In July, Plaza del Sol will begin its soft opening, bringing new opportunities for small business owners and creating a vibrant gathering place for the community. Seeing this vision become a reality is incredibly rewarding.
Plaza del Sol represents the dreams, perseverance and collaboration of so many people who believed in what was possible. We cannot wait to share this exciting new chapter with you all.
With gratitude,
Alma Flores, Executive Director
LEDC Minnesota
