Shop Local: Governor Tim Walz Urges Support for Immigrant-Owned Businesses
[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz has raised serious concerns regarding the heavy toll federal immigration enforcement is taking on Minnesota’s small businesses. Specifically, he is highlighting the struggle of immigrant-owned establishments. Furthermore, the increased presence of federal agents has led to reduced foot traffic, severe staffing shortages, and significant financial losses. Consequently, this creates a damaging ripple effect across the state’s economy. To combat this, Governor Walz is urging Minnesotans to shop local. He believes supporting immigrant-owned businesses will help mitigate these challenges and foster economic stability.
The Impact of Federal Presence on Small Businesses
Currently, the presence of federal agents in Minnesota has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. This is especially true for immigrant-owned businesses. Governor Walz emphasized the detrimental effects this situation has on communities.
He stated, “Small business owners represent the American Dream. However, this fear and uncertainty is crushing all the hard work they’ve put into building their business. It hurts their ability to support their employees and enrich their communities.”
Local business owners are feeling the heat. For instance, Saed Wadi of World Street Kitchen, Milkjam, and Saffron has reported significant declines in foot traffic. Additionally, economic activity has slowed down.
Wadi shared his perspective, noting, “What we are experiencing from the expanded federal immigration enforcement presence is not just a momentary disruption. Rather, it is a threat to the stability of our employees and our businesses. Ultimately, it threatens our city and the broader local economy.”
Economic Data Highlights the Strain
The economic impact of federal actions is not just anecdotal; it is evident in recent data.
First, a Latino Economic Development Center survey found troubling numbers. It revealed that 44% of businesses had temporarily closed. Moreover, fewer than 20% were operating normally.
Second, the City of Minneapolis estimates that businesses are losing between $10 million and $20 million in revenue weekly. In fact, the Lake Street corridor alone lost $46 million between December 2025 and January 2026.
Third, a Meet Minneapolis survey revealed that 90% of restaurants, hotels, and retail businesses have been affected. Additionally, 72% are reporting staffing absenteeism.
The effects extend far beyond retail and hospitality. For example, Twin Cities home builders and developers are experiencing project delays. They are also facing workforce shortages. As a result, this leads to reduced rental income and slowed home sales. According to Redfin, pending home sales in the Twin Cities metro fell 19.2% last month. In contrast, the national decline was only 1.6%.
Shop Local Month: A Call to Action
In response to these mounting challenges, Governor Walz has proclaimed February as Shop Local Month in Minnesota. This initiative encourages residents to support small businesses. Specifically, it targets immigrant-owned establishments and aims to connect owners with available resources.
DEED Commissioner Varilek highlighted the importance of this campaign. He stated, “The Governor’s Shop Local campaign has been well received and impactful. Even so, we hear daily from entrepreneurs, workers, and support organizations. They say their own federal government is deeply harming their individual livelihoods. Furthermore, it is harming the state’s economy as a whole.”
Supporting Immigrant-Owned Businesses
Immigrant-owned businesses are vital to Minnesota’s economy. They are also essential to its cultural fabric. By shopping local, Minnesotans can help these businesses weather current challenges. Additionally, community support helps them continue to thrive.
Governor Walz emphasized this point, saying, “Minnesota must remain a place where businesses can thrive. It must be a place where everyone feels safe contributing to our shared success.”
Legislative Action and Resources
Beyond public support, Governor Walz has called for legislative action. He aims to address the economic and workforce impacts of federal enforcement. This includes providing additional support to small businesses. Moreover, he wants to ensure that Minnesota remains a welcoming and prosperous state for all.
For more insights on supporting local businesses and fostering economic growth, visit The Narrative Matters.
How You Can Help
You can make a difference today. Here is how:
- Shop Local: Support small businesses in your community, especially immigrant-owned establishments.
- Spread Awareness: Share the importance of shopping local with friends and family.
- Advocate for Change: Encourage policymakers to address the economic challenges facing small businesses.
For additional resources on supporting small businesses, check out the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED).
By coming together as a community, Minnesotans can help small businesses overcome these challenges. Together, we can ensure a thriving local economy.
#ShopLocalMN #SupportSmallBusiness #ImmigrantOwned
