Congress has approved a funding bill that includes funds for a small business incubator planned in Brooklyn Park.

The $1.5 trillion House Omnibus Appropriations Funding Package includes a wide range of projects across the country, including funds for infrastructure and public safety. Locally, $1 million was requested for the Brooklyn Park small business center, which will be located at vacant store space in the Northwind Plaza retail center.

Brooklyn Park’s Economic Development Authority purchased the 64,500-square-foot strip mall last fall for $7.3 million.

The small business center would not only provide space, but technical support for entrepreneurs. A description of the project provided by the office of U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips says there will be a specific emphasis on business owners who are Black, Indigenous and people of color. The center is expected to open in early 2023

The project aims to increase the city’s tax base, while also creating jobs. Phillips says funding for this project and others in his district is a first step.

“As much as we accomplished, our job is not complete. Additional COVID aid and replenishment of the Restaurant Revitalization Fund and small business support remain among my highest priorities,” said Phillips, who represents Minnesota’s 3rd District, which includes Brooklyn Park.

The House approved a total of $17 million for 3rd District projects. Another included nearly $1.3 million for a pedestrian underpass as part of the Mississippi Gateway Regional Park development.

Leaders in the House are urging the Senate to pass the funding package without delay and send to President Joe Biden for his signature.

U.S. HOUSE FUNDING SECURED FOR BROOKLYN PARK SMALL BUSINESS CENTER
March 10, 2022 – CCX Media