Several regional organizations are offering grants for restaurants and small businesses impacted by the federal immigration enforcement surge in the metro area.

Emergency Restaurant Grants

The Salt Cure Restaurant Recovery Fund, administered by the Minneapolis Foundation, is offering emergency grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to help restaurants remain open and cover operational hardships.

The first application round is open through Monday, Feb. 23, prioritizing small, independently owned restaurants in the seven-county metro area.

Learn how to apply.

Other Small Business Relief Funds

Businesses may also be eligible for these programs:

Economic Response Fund (Minneapolis Foundation)

A statewide small business relief fund seeded with $4 million from Minnesota companies and individuals. Initial distributions are expected in the coming weeks.
Learn more and apply.

Southeast Asian and Immigrant/Refugee Small Business Stabilization Grant (Hmong American Partnership)

Grants of up to $5,000 for Southeast Asian and immigrant/refugee business owners with brick-and-mortar businesses. Applications are accepted until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2026.
Learn more and apply.

Free Business Assistance 

Hennepin County’s Elevate Hennepin^SM program connects small business owners with free resources to strengthen business strategies. Advisors provide expert consulting on everything from marketing to pricing and growth planning, and can connect owners to financing support such as grants and lending opportunities.

Learn more at ElevateHennepin.org.