The East Side of Saint Paul is home to a diverse and resilient community of entrepreneurs. For generations, residents from around the world have established businesses not only as a means of supporting their families, but also to share their cultures, skills, and knowledge with the wider community. These small businesses are vital to the local economy—they create jobs, build wealth, and reflect the identity and values of the East Side.

Rooted Philanthropic is committed to cultivating a thriving, locally owned economy by investing in small business development. Our approach prioritizes BIPOC and female entrepreneurs and business owners who have historically had less access to economic opportunities and essential resources. Through a strategic focus on the Three Cs—Cohort, Capability, and Capital—we aim to remove barriers, increase capital of all kinds, and create pathways for sustainable success.

Our Three Cs

  • Cohort

    We support East Side entrepreneurs by delivering an annual cohort-based program that offers comprehensive training, technical assistance, mentorship, and coaching. Each cohort participant also gains access to capital and the opportunity to build relationships with fellow business owners and technical assistance providers.

    We actively seek collaborative partnerships to expand and enhance the delivery of cohort services.

  • Capability

    We strengthen the capacity of local nonprofit organizations with a proven track record of supporting small businesses and advancing community-based economic development.

    Additionally, we champion local commercial real estate redevelopment efforts that place East Side residents and business owners at the forefront—ensuring that decisions about land and property reflect the priorities of the local community rather than outside interests.

  • Capital

    We help unlock access to affordable capital by supporting innovative financing tools, including direct investment and contributions to local loan funds.

    By simplifying funding processes and removing unnecessary barriers, we empower entrepreneurs and small business owners to grow, invest, and thrive on their own terms.

If your work aligns with any of these strategies, please feel free to submit some information to us through our Mini Letter of Inquiry form on our Grantmaking page and our Program Officer will be in touch with you.

You may also contact Vong Thao, Program Officer Entrepreneurship & Small Business, directly at [email protected] or 651-316-4430.