Starting Your Business in Minnesota | A Step-by-Step Guide


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
Business Formation Expert
Hi there, I'm Steve. My mission is to empower the next generation of online entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. My business insights are based on real-world experience, ensuring that aspiring entrepreneurs can confidently start and run their own businesses.

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Start a Business in Minnesota

If you want to start an LLC in Minnesota, there are numerous factors to consider. Starting your own business is one of the most exciting and profitable things you can do in Minnesota. But where do you start? Follow our comprehensive guide on How to Start a Business in Minnesota. We will assist you in removing doubt from the process and investigate your success chances. It will begin with defining your business idea and progress to establishing, launching, and expanding your business. Webinarcare Editorial Team will help you every step of the way!

What Business to Start in Minnesota?

If you’re looking to start a business in Minnesota, consider starting a limited liability company (LLC). LLCs offer personal liability protection for their owners while also providing the flexibility of a partnership or sole proprietorship. Beyond that, here is the list of businesses to consider in Minnesota.

  1. Food business
  2. Tourism company
  3. Web designing services
  4. Wood Logging and Milling
  5. Recruitment company

Whatever business you choose to start, it’s important to conduct thorough market research and create a solid business plan before diving in. We reviewed some of the Best LLC Services and provided features as an add-on with their packages for you to check out.

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Starting a business can be a challenging but highly rewarding endeavor. By taking the time to research and plan, you can increase your chances of success. Whether you choose to form a corporation or start an LLC in Minnesota, it’s important to surround yourself with a strong team that will guide you. Don’t let fear hold you back, take that first step towards turning your business dreams into a reality.

WEBINARCARE EDITORIAL TEAM

How to Start a Business in Minnesota?

To form a business in Minnesota, you must follow a few steps that include creating a business plan, choosing a business entity type, determining your business costs, naming your business, registering a business, and lastly, marketing your business.

Please continue reading to learn more about the overall procedure and what new small business owners should keep in mind as they complete each step.

Step 1: Creating a Business Plan

When developing a business plan, many factors should be considered during the decision-making process. Your business plan in Minnesota serves as a road map for your company’s success.

A business plan should take into account the specific goals of your company. You should know the product or service you will provide in Minnesota. A well-thought-out business plan is essential for determining how your company will make a profit. If the purpose of the business plan is ambiguous and unrelated to the service you provide, it will impact the business you are forming. Make sure your business goals are SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound). Also, researching your competitors’ services will help you determine your strategy for your state business. Finally, you should consider your company’s funding.

With this article’s assistance, you can better comprehend your business’s essential components and success strategy. You can apply for Minnesota Small Business Loans from banks and investor funding to help support your company in Minnesota.

Once you have the entire plan in your hands, you can work on the legal framework of your company. Legally, you can form an LLC for your ideal business.

Step 2: Choose a Business Entity in Minnesota

Selecting a business entity for your Minnesota company. When starting your own business, you must choose a business structure. How well your personal assets are secured, how much tax you pay, and how much paperwork you have to deal with will all be significantly impacted by the type of corporate entity you choose. Consider setting up a corporation, LLC, LLP, or sole proprietorship as your business entity in Minnesota.

Sole Proprietorships

Consider a sole proprietorship if you want to start a business in Minnesota by yourself. A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure in which a single individual owns and operates the entire business. The owner and the business are considered the same legal entity in a sole proprietorship. There is no legal distinction between the owner and the business, meaning that the owner has complete control over the business operations, profits, and losses.

Sole proprietorships are best suited for Minnesota small businesses with low risks and for individuals who want to maintain complete control over their business without the complexities of establishing a separate legal entity.

Limited Liability Company

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a business structure that combines features of both partnerships and corporations, offering limited liability protection to its owners (called members) while allowing flexibility in management and taxation. An LLC is a separate legal entity from its owners, meaning the members are not personally liable for the business’s debts, obligations, or liabilities.

It is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses that want the liability protection of a corporation while maintaining management flexibility and simpler tax treatment. It’s essential to consult with a legal or financial professional to determine if an LLC is the best choice for your specific business situation.

Limited Liability Partnership

A limited liability partnership (LLP) is comparable to an LLC. However, it is usually used by licensed business professionals like attorneys or accountants. A partnership agreement is necessary for this kind of business entity. You can form an LLP in Minnesota if you are planning to.

Corporation

Forming a Corporation in Minnesota reduces your personal liability for business debts as an LLC does. A corporation is a legal entity that is separate and distinct from its owners, known as shareholders. It is created under the laws of the state it is incorporated in and is considered a separate “person” under the law. The corporation can enter into contracts, own property, sue and be sued, and pay taxes separately from its owners.

A corporation can be taxed as an S-corporation (S-Corp) or a C-corporation (C-Corp). If a small corporation satisfies certain Internal Revenue Service (IRS) standards, then S-corporation status is available, providing pass-through taxation. However, most larger businesses and startups seeking venture financing are taxed as C-corps.

To choose the right business structure in Minnesota, consider personal liability protection, taxation, management flexibility, administrative requirements, and setup costs. Consult a legal or financial professional to help you make the best decision.

Recommended: Incorporating a business has never been easier that’s why Legalzoom’s corporation formation provide a comprehensive and streamlined approach for your business. Whether you have plans to crowdfund or go public, get help from LegalZoom every step of the way. We recommend using –

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Step 3: Determine your Minnesota Business Cost

In Minnesota, you should determine the cost of your business. You should consider paying the Articles of Organization fee, business licenses fee, office supplies and equipment, payroll, rent, utilities, transportation, and taxes.

Usually, filing an initial Minnesota Articles of Organization fee costs $135, while the LLC annual fee costs $0 in Minnesota. In terms of filing Minnesota Articles of Incorporation, the costs usually range up to $155 for filing online and in-person, and $135 for filing by mail.

If forming an LLC is your ideal business, consider knowing the LLC Cost in Minnesota.

Step 4: Name your Business in Minnesota

Naming your business doesn’t take a lot of time. With the help of Minnesota Business Name Search, you can acquire a name for your business. If you form an LLC in Minnesota, you must follow the below rules while naming your business-

  • The name should not be confused with a government entity.
  • The name should be unique.
  • The name should be available to use.
  • Any other business does not use the name.
  • The new name must include “LLC” if it is a limited liability company.

In Minnesota, if you do not wish to file your business right away but want to hold the name that you have decided on, then you can reserve your business name. You must file a name reservation application in the Minnesota Secretary of State to keep the name.

If the business name is available, you may choose to reserve it for a specific period of 1 year. The online name reservation fee is $35 and the mail name reservation fee is $55. If your business plans to operate under a name other than its legal name, you may also need to register a fictitious or “doing business as” (DBA) name.

The DBA filing can be done in three methods, online, by mail, and in person filing, which you can file in Minnesota Secretary of State. You can check out how to file a DBA in Minnesota for clearer understanding.

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Step 5: Register Minnesota Business

To register a business in Minnesota, you need to file it with the Minnesota Secretary of State. Before that, you must have a Minnesota Registered Agent for your business. The Registered Agent is a person who is responsible for receiving important legal documents on your behalf.

You can serve as your own Registered Agent, or you can appoint a friend or family member, or you can check the Best Registered Agent Services in Minnesota.

Apply For Articles of Organization

After you have a Registered Agent, you need to file the Minnesota Articles of Organization, if you want to have an LLC structure, or you need to file the Minnesota Articles of Incorporation if you want to have a Corporation.

Request For an EIN

In addition to the paperwork, your Registered Agent should apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) in Minnesota. An EIN will serve as the tax ID for your professional corporation. EIN can be obtained from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). It is a 9-digit number similar to Social Security Number. EIN, however, is distinct from SSN. It is only used for business-related activities, particularly for submitting general taxes. The form must be completed and uploaded to the IRS website. You can obtain the EIN for free from the IRS.

The application of an EIN in Minnesota can be through the following:

  • Apply Online- The online EIN application is the preferred method for customers to apply for and obtain an EIN.
  • Apply by Fax- Taxpayers can fax the completed Form SS-4 application to the appropriate fax number), after ensuring that Form SS-4 contains all of the required information.
  • Apply by Mail- The EIN application Form SS-4 can be filed via mail. The processing time frame to receive the mail is four weeks.
  • Apply by Telephone (for International Applicants)– International applicants may call 267-941-1099 (not a toll-free number) from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday to obtain their EIN.

After you have your EIN number, you can benefit in several ways. It will give your LLC the absolute advantage necessary to operate at full capacity without encountering legal or judicial issues.

Recommended: Professional services have the EIN included in their LLC formation package. We recommend using –

LegalZoom($0 + State Fee for LLC formation)

Step 6: Apply for Business License and Permit

Business licenses and operating permits are necessary to run any business in Minnesota. Before launching your new business, request any required business license or permission. Most Minnesota businesses need licenses or permits to operate. Federal, state, and local governments may all require businesses to have licenses and permits. The business license fee depends on the type of license you are applying for. It can start from $25 till going up to $100+. However, in Minnesota, the business license fee ranges from $50 – $300.

Step 7: Obtain a Bank Account

Your business dealings in Minnesota might be simpler with a US business bank account because it boosts your company’s legitimacy and liquidity. Opening a separate bank account for your Minnesota business is essential for maintaining a clear separation between your personal and business finances.

You can check out the Best Banks in Minnesota, which offers the best fees, services, and convenience for your business needs.

Step 8: Market your Business in Minnesota

Now that your Minnesota business is registered, you can market it with an ideal marketing plan. An ideal marketing plan can help a start-up business to become known. Making a comprehensive social media network like META, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube falls within this category. While creating an SEO campaign for your company website, you may also look at specialized communities on Facebook and LinkedIn.

FAQs

What types of businesses are popular in Minnesota?
Many popular businesses in Minnesota include health care, retail, food services, and manufacturing.
Do I need a business license to start a business in Minnesota?
Yes, you need to obtain a business license in Minnesota before starting a business.
How do I register my business in Minnesota?
Minnesota business registration can be done online via the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website.
What taxes do I need to pay as a business owner in Minnesota?
As a business owner in Minnesota, you will be responsible for paying corporate income tax, sales tax, and employment taxes.
Can I register my business as a sole proprietorship in Minnesota?
Yes, you can register your business as a sole proprietorship in Minnesota.
What is the cost of business registration in Minnesota?
The cost of business registration in Minnesota varies depending on the type of business entity.
How can I choose a business name for my Minnesota-based business?
You can search the Minnesota Secretary of State’s website to ensure your business name is available, and then register it with the secretary of state.
How do I raise funds to start a business in Minnesota?
You can raise funds for your Minnesota-based business through crowdfunding, loans, grants, or investors.
What are the best resources in Minnesota for small business owners?
Some of the best resources in Minnesota for small business owners include the Small Business Association, SCORE Minnesota, and the Minnesota Business Development Center.
Do I need to form an LLC in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to form an LLC in Minnesota. However, it may provide added protection for your personal assets in the event of legal issues.
What are the benefits of starting a business in Minnesota?
Some of the benefits of starting a business in Minnesota include a strong economy, low costs of living, and access to valuable resources.
What is the process for obtaining a Minnesota state business tax ID number?
You can obtain your Minnesota state business tax ID number through the Minnesota Department of Revenue.
Can I operate my business from home in Minnesota?
Yes, you can operate your business from your home in Minnesota, as long as you comply with local zoning and neighborhood regulations.
What business insurance do I need in Minnesota?
The types of business insurance you need in Minnesota depend on your specific business. However, general liability and professional liability insurance are commonly recommended.
What types of permits do I need to obtain to start a business in Minnesota?
The types of permits you need to obtain depend on the type of business you are starting. Commonly required permits include building permits, health department permits, and environmental permits.
Are there any grants available for new businesses in Minnesota?
Yes, there are several grants available for new businesses in Minnesota, including the Minnesota Investment Fund and the Minnesota Job Creation Fund.
Can I file for a patent in Minnesota?
Yes, you can file for a patent in Minnesota through the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
What is the minimum wage for employees in Minnesota?
The minimum wage for employees in Minnesota is $9.86 per hour for adult workers.
Can I sell food from a food truck in Minnesota?
Yes, you can sell food from a food truck in Minnesota. However, you will need to obtain the required permits and comply with food safety regulations.
Do I need to file a DBA in Minnesota?
If you plan to conduct business under a name that is different from your business’s legal name, then you need to file for a DBA in Minnesota.
What is the unemployment tax rate in Minnesota?
The unemployment tax rate in Minnesota varies depending on your business size, type, and history.
What is the maximum number of employees I can have before I need to offer health insurance in Minnesota?
If you have 50 or more full-time employees, you are required by law to offer health insurance in Minnesota.
What do I need to know about labor laws in Minnesota?
Minnesota labor laws cover topics such as minimum wage, overtime, sick leave, and workers’ compensation.
Can I amend my business registration in Minnesota?
Yes, you can amend your business registration in Minnesota if you need to make changes to your business name, address, or business entity.
Do I need to file for a trademark in Minnesota?
No, you do not need to file for a trademark in Minnesota. However, it is recommended to ensure your business name and logo are protected.
How do I hire employees in Minnesota?
To hire employees in Minnesota, you must verify that they are eligible to work in the United States, provide forms for state and federal taxes, and provide labor law information.
Do I need a business plan in Minnesota?
While not required by law, having a business plan is highly recommended in Minnesota to ensure your business’s success.
Can I obtain a liquor license in Minnesota?
Yes, you can obtain a liquor license in Minnesota for your business, but certain restrictions and requirements apply.
How long does it take to receive my Minnesota business registration certificate?
The processing time for Minnesota business registration varies, but it generally takes a few weeks to a month to receive your certificate.
What is the process for forming a business in Minnesota?
The process for forming a business in Minnesota involves filing formation documents with the Minnesota Secretary of State and obtaining necessary business licenses and permits.
What type of business entity should I form in Minnesota?
Minnesota offers options such as a Sole Proprietorship, Partnership, Limited Liability Company (LLC), Corporation or Non-profit corporation. Discuss with a lawyer, regarding what type might work best for you.
Do I need to obtain a business license to operate in Minnesota?
Most businesses in Minnesota require a business registration with the Minnesota Department of Revenue, and certain other licenses and permits may also be required.
What taxes do businesses in Minnesota need to pay?
Businesses in Minnesota may need to pay state sales tax, income tax and local property or income taxes, depending on their structure and location.
How do I obtain a tax ID number in Minnesota?
You can obtain a tax ID number for your business in Minnesota by registering with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) online, by mail, fax or by phone.
How can I search for potential business names in Minnesota?
You can search for potential business names in Minnesota by using the Secretary of State’s online databases.
How do I register my business name in Minnesota?
To register your business name in Minnesota for sole proprietorships or partnerships, you can file a Doing Business As (DBA) registration with the county where your business operations will be located.
Do I need a registered agent for my Minnesota business?
Yes, registered agents are required for Minnesota businesses, and they must be a Minnesota resident or company that can receive service of process on behalf of the business.
Do I need to file an annual report for my business in Minnesota?
Yes, all Minnesota businesses, except non-profits, are required to file an annual report with the Secretary of State.
What is the cost to register a business in Minnesota?
The cost to register a business in Minnesota is either $45 or $155, depending on the entity type and filing method.
How long does it take to form a business in Minnesota?
The time it takes to form a business in Minnesota depends on the type of entity and the filing process used.
Can I obtain help for starting a business in Minnesota?
Yes, the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) offers assistance for entrepreneurs and starting a business in Minnesota.
What resources are available to help me fund my Minnesota business?
In Minnesota, resources such as grants, loans, tax credits and equity financing may be available to help fund your business.
How do I protect my business name and logo in Minnesota?
You can protect your business name and logo in Minnesota by filing for a state trademark or service-mark registration with the Secretary of State.
Is there a disadvantage to registering a business entity in Minnesota instead of another state?
The disadvantage registering in Minnesota is that the taxes can be higher than some other states, so consider consulting a financial advisor.
Does Minnesota offer any tax incentives for new businesses?
Minnesota City and County incubator programs offer certain tax incentives for new and emerging businesses.
Is it easy to hire employees in Minnesota?
Yes, individuals can apply for work that offers benefits like health care, vacation time and personal days.
How can I find employees for my Minnesota business?
You may hire employees for your Minnesota business by utilize resources offered by DEED or advertising on job boards to find the right candidates.
How do I obtain workers’ compensation insurance in Minnesota?
You can obtain workers’ compensation insurance in Minnesota from an approved insurance provider.
Can I operate my Minnesota business from my home?
Yes, but check local zoning laws. Certain businesses might face a stricter policy than a private residence might abide.
What permits or licenses do I need to start a catering business in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, if you plan on preparing or serving food to the public at a regularly occurring venue, then you are required to apply for food vendor permits with the offices of Department of Public Health.
How do I confirm business licenses and regulations Sihanoukville localities?
The easiest way to confirm business licenses and regulations in Sihanowkville is to contact Sihanoukville Province Department of Planning or Commerce directly.
Must I carry insurance for property damage and bodily harm of customers in my Minnesota business?
To cover costs for potential claims and to help business almost every business is required in Minnesota to have liability insurance.
Is there any need to separate personal and business liabilities for Minnesota businesses?
Incorporating as a corporation, Limited Liability Company or partnership to help separate your personal and business liabilities but still consult with a Business Attorney in Minnesota.
What businesses thrive in the state of Minnesota?
Businesses such as Technology-based startups, Aerospace manufacturing, Transport and Logistics, Food Processing and Renewable Energies tend to thrive in Minnesota.
How can women and minority entrepreneurs look for financing?
DEED offers few amazing initiative grant mentorships, aimed toward startups owned by women and minorities. Applicants can aim and qualify for financial assistance and may need to apply and check with granted organizations frequently.
How does the COVID-19 pandemic impact starting a Minnesota business?
Business laws and regulations, licensing, staffing, loans, legal contracts, insurance and taxes continue to change on a rolling basis following pandemic’s impact, so the ideal thing to do is consult with Business attorneys on next steps.
How can technology help entrepreneurs starting a business in Minnesota?
Technology offers collaboration tools, business management software, CRM, team task managers, productivity tools that can lessen the labor cost and introduce quick solutions for Minnesota businesses.

Also Read

Why You Should Start Business in Minnesota

Minnesota, also known as the land of 10,000 lakes, is a state that offers a multitude of advantages for those looking to start a business. From its thriving economy to its highly skilled workforce, there are many reasons why Minnesota should be at the top of your list when considering where to launch your next venture.

One of the key reasons why Minnesota is an attractive location for entrepreneurs is its strong economy. The state boasts a diverse economy that is home to a variety of industries, including agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. This diversity makes Minnesota less susceptible to economic downturns that may impact other regions, providing a sense of stability and security for businesses operating there.

In addition to its strong economy, Minnesota is also home to a highly educated and skilled workforce. The state has a deep talent pool that is filled with individuals who are well-educated, tech-savvy, and eager to work. This makes it easier for businesses to attract and retain top talent, ensuring that they have the human resources needed to succeed.

Furthermore, Minnesota is known for its business-friendly climate. The state ranks high in terms of offering support for entrepreneurs, with a variety of resources and programs available to help new businesses get off the ground. From incubators and accelerators to tax incentives and networking opportunities, Minnesota provides a welcoming environment for startups looking to thrive.

Another factor that makes Minnesota a great place to start a business is its high quality of life. The state is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States, thanks to its abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly communities. For entrepreneurs looking to strike a balance between work and life, Minnesota offers the perfect mix of career opportunities and personal fulfillment.

Overall, Minnesota has a lot to offer entrepreneurs who are looking to start a business. From its strong economy and talented workforce to its supportive business climate and high quality of life, there are many reasons why Minnesota should be on your radar when considering where to launch your next venture. So if you’re in the market for a new place to start a business, don’t overlook Minnesota – it may just be the perfect location for your next big idea.

Conclusion

Starting a business in Minnesota has unique advantages and challenges since it offers a large and diverse market, access to skilled talent, and numerous networking opportunities, making it an attractive location for entrepreneurs. However, business owners must also contend with a high cost of living, intense competition, and potentially complex regulations.

Ultimately, whether starting a business in Minnesota is the right decision depends on the entrepreneur’s specific needs, goals, and industry. It is crucial to conduct thorough research and consider factors such as taxes, regulations, workforce availability, and target market when choosing a location for a new business. By carefully weighing the pros and cons, entrepreneurs can make informed decisions and set themselves up for success in the competitive Minnesota business landscape.

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