Governor Tim Walz’s $10M Relief Package: A Lifeline for Small Businesses
[ST. PAUL, MN] – The federal surge in Minnesota is officially winding down, and Governor Tim Walz is stepping up with a $10 million relief package aimed at supporting small businesses impacted by the operation. This one-time emergency funding, part of the Governor’s 2026 legislative session package, will be administered by the Minnesota De[ST. PAUL, MN] – As the federal surge in Minnesota winds down, Governor Tim Walz has introduced a $10 million relief package. This initiative aims to support small businesses affected by the operation. The funding, part of the Governor’s 2026 legislative session, will be managed by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED). It offers partially forgivable loans to stabilize businesses, protect jobs, and help the state’s economy recover.
$10 Million Relief Package to Rebuild Minnesota’s Small Businesses
Governor Walz’s proposal addresses the economic challenges faced by small businesses during the federal surge. The relief package includes forgivable loans ranging from $2,500 to $25,000. To qualify, businesses must show significant revenue losses during the surge.
“The campaign of retribution by the federal administration has caused long-term damage to Minnesota communities,” said Governor Walz. “Recovery will take time. Families, workers, and business owners are feeling the effects. Our responsibility is clear: we will rebuild, stabilize businesses, protect jobs, and ensure Minnesota’s economy thrives.”
Economic Hardships Highlighted by DEED Commissioner
DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek stressed the importance of this relief package. He noted the significant, yet less visible, economic toll the federal surge has had on small businesses.
“While the human toll is evident in the media, the economic impact on Minnesota’s small businesses is critical but less visible,” said Commissioner Varilek. “Many businesses are barely staying open. This package could provide fast relief to those on the brink of closure.”
Additionally, Commissioner Varilek is working with private sector partners to offer temporary fee waivers or reductions. These measures aim to provide extra support to struggling businesses.
Small Business Owners Share Their Struggles
The federal surge has deeply affected small business owners like Henry Garnica, who owns CentroMex Supermarket in East St. Paul. Garnica shared his challenges during the announcement.
“The past few months have been some of the hardest I’ve experienced as a business owner,” said Garnica. “Sales are down, hours are limited, and we’ve had to change how we operate. This forgivable loan package could help us keep employees and stay open. For some, it could mean the difference between surviving and closing.”
Shop Local Month: A Call to Action for Minnesotans
Governor Walz is also encouraging Minnesotans to support local businesses through February’s Shop Local Month and the “Shop Local, Stand Together” initiative. These efforts aim to strengthen community support alongside state-backed relief.
Earlier this week, Governor Walz visited Malcolm Yards to hear from local business owners in the hospitality and retail sectors. Their stories highlighted the urgent need for relief and the importance of community-driven support.
How to Support Minnesota’s Small Businesses
As Minnesota works toward recovery, residents can play a vital role by shopping locally. Supporting neighborhood businesses is essential for economic growth. For more insights on the challenges faced by small businesses, visit The Narrative Matters.
For additional information on small business relief programs, visit the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) website.
#MinnesotaBusiness #EconomicRecovery #SmallBusinessRelief
