To our community,
2026 has brought a new set of unique challenges for communities across Minnesota. The launch of Operation Metro Surge created a massive destabilization for small businesses, with Latino and immigrant-owned businesses among the hardest hit.
ICE enforcement actions resulted in devastating ripple effects—business owners lost employees overnight, families were disrupted, and entire neighborhoods now face economic uncertainty. Many businesses are experiencing sharp declines in revenue and foot traffic, with some at risk of closing without timely support.
These businesses are not only vital to our local economy; they are cultural anchors and sources of resilience for thousands of Minnesotans. Targeted investment at this moment can help stabilize operations, preserve jobs and ensure these businesses—and the communities they support—can recover and rebuild.
In response to Operation Metro Surge, LEDC established the Latino & Immigrant Business Emergency Relief Fund to help Latino and immigrant business owners throughout Minnesota weather these challenges.
This fund delivered timely, targeted support to strengthen businesses when they needed it most:
- Helped cover payroll expenses that amassed when ICE activity disrupted day-to-day operations and workforce availability.
- Provided legal compliance support around leases and offered rent assistance.
- Offered emergency financial assistance to help businesses meet critical obligations, including interest and principal payments.
To date, we have raised over $1 million dollars and awarded $624,500 to 138 businesses most impacted by the crisis. A MASSIVE thank you to our generous partners who made this emergency response possible:
- Rooted Philanthropic
- McNealy Foundation
- Northwest Area Foundation
- Minneapolis Foundation
- Fred C. and Katherine B. Anderson Foundation
- Mortenson Foundation
- Women’s Foundation—Immigrant Response Fund
And so many more!
As spring blooms, we look ahead to helping entrepreneurs and small business owners regrow their businesses despite the challenges they face. The upcoming grand opening of Plaza del Sol, a dynamic destination that brings together a food hall, event center, and shared commercial kitchen, will offer a secure space for small food businesses to grow and thrive. With this initiative, entrepreneurs in Saint Paul’s historic East Side will flourish.
In solidarity,
Alma Flores, Executive Director
LEDC
