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Are you thinking about starting or expanding a business here in Washington County?

Our partnership with the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers’ Open to Business program can help you get the technical and financial resources needed make good things happen, such as more space for a new product line, a loan to help get a great idea off the ground, or assistance with writing a rock-solid business plan.

What is Open to Business?

Open to Business provides free, confidential business counseling to current and prospective entrepreneurs. Our experienced consultants work with you to identify challenges and opportunities and tailor solutions to your business needs, including helping to source financing that best meets a business’s unique needs.
By the Numbers: A Third-Quarter 2025 Snapshot of Open to Business in Washington County
  • Clients Served YTD……95
  • Top Five Industries
    • Service……26%
    • Food……20%
    • Retail……12.5%
    • Health/Fitness……8.5%
    • Professional/Consulting……7.5%
  • Business Owner Demographics
    • Low-Income Owned……47
    • BIPOC or Immigrant Owned……49
    • Woman Owned……58

No-Cost, Confidential Services

  • Business and strategic planning
  • Marketing and communications planning
  • Regulatory, tax, licensing, and accounting training
  • Financial assessment
  • Direct lending
  • Access to governmental and community financing
  • Loan packaging for private financing
  • Referrals to critical professional services
  • Financing opportunities

“As an entrepreneur, one of the biggest challenges in getting started is not knowing all of the things that I want to know. When I started talking to Tyler he really became the trusted business advisor that I needed to help guide me forward through the unknown. Because of his great advice, and continued support, I continue to be successful in reaching and retaining clients for my business. I cannot recommend Tyler enough.” – Woodbury Business Owner
As a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), MCCD provides capital to entrepreneurs, including those who face challenges in accessing the commercial banking system, with a focus on Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC); women; low-wealth individuals; and geographic areas of underinvestment. Low interest rates and flexible terms are available for qualified applicants. Rates are subject to change.

“Being a small business owner can be tough. [Tyler] helped me get ahead of the business loan process, making sure I really understood what I was submitting and what might make me successful or present challenges. I’m just grateful and happy to spread the word about the program.” — Kristin Rohman Rehkamp, Owner, La Vie Est Belle in Lake Elmo and White Bear Lake

Get Answers to Your Business Questions!

Learn how Open to Business can help your business grow! Contact Tyler Hilsabeck, the Open to Business representative for Washington County: