ACER INC. Grant

Purpose: Essential funding to help local entrepreneurs scale their operations, modernize equipment, and improve their business infrastructure to drive long-term success.

Program Objectives

The overarching goal is to catalyze local economic development by offsetting the high costs of capital improvements:

• Enhance Operational Efficiency: Transition businesses from manual or legacy systems to modern, digital workflows
• Standardize Service Quality: Equip businesses with professional-grade tools to compete with national franchises
• Revitalize Commercial Corridors: Improve the physical "curb appeal" and safety of local business districts

Geographic Scope

State of Minnesota — Primary business operations must be within Minnesota

Target Population

• Special focus on entrepreneurs from BIPOC communities (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color)
• Small and micro businesses
• Underserved entrepreneurs

Eligibility Requirements

Business Identity & Location:

• Must have a legal business name with evidence of operations
• Primary business operations must be within Minnesota

Business Stage & Paperwork:

• New Businesses (Startups): Must have a clear business plan
• Existing Businesses: Must provide financial records or tax filings

Mission Focus:

• Small and micro businesses in Minnesota
• Underserved entrepreneurs

Eligible Use of Funds

• Technology & Automation: POS systems, inventory management software, high-speed hardware, cybersecurity upgrades
• Professional Equipment: Commercial kitchen appliances, specialized medical/salon equipment, trade tools
• Infrastructure & Aesthetics: Interior build-outs, HVAC upgrades, professional signage, exterior facade improvements
• Marketing Infrastructure: Professional photography for digital storefronts, website development, branded environmental graphics

Ineligible Uses

Grant funds typically cannot be used for:

• Payroll
• Existing debt service
• General operating expenses

Technical Assistance Requirement

Grant recipients are integrated into the Business Resource Hub, which includes:

• Financial Literacy Coaching: Guidance on bookkeeping and tax preparedness
• Procurement Assistance: Help vetting vendors for equipment and construction to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness
• Strategic Marketing: One-on-one sessions to leverage new infrastructure to attract customers

Contact Information

Business Analyst: Emmanuel Fru Nwi

• Email: efrunwi@acerinc.org
• Address: 6096 Shingle Creek Parkway, Brooklyn Center, MN 55430
• Phone: 763-657-7711

Application Process

The selection process is competitive and transparency-focused, consisting of four phases:

1. Phase I: Inquiry
   • Submit online interest form
   • Provide basic business documentation
2. Phase II: Consultation
   • Diagnostic meeting with an ACER Business Advisor
   • Refine project scope
3. Phase III: Committee Review
   • Evaluation by selection committee based on:
   • Community impact
   • Financial viability
   • Project feasibility
4. Phase IV: Award & Implementation
   • Disbursement of funds (often via direct vendor payment)
   • Project monitoring

Questions or More Information

Contact: Emmanuel Fru Nwi at efrunwi@acerinc.org