Cover Story
Sustaining sustainable businesses
There have long been incentives associated with taking on green projects and organizations available to assist with information. Whether it’s installing solar panels or finding ways to get reusable cups into concert venues, Minnesota has also become a hotbed for sustainability-based companies helping move the state and nation toward net zero goals. “Minnesota is a […] Continue reading →
Letter From the Editor
When it’s time to manifest
I quit my day job at Franchise Times in a rage in May, after the owner got cold feet and killed one of my articles detailing serious allegations against a large franchise brand. At first, I felt devastated to let down the dozens of individual owners who were counting on me to give them a […] Continue reading →
Focus
Not so bad
Unemployment in Minnesota sits below 3 percent. Labor market participation is high. Airport traffic counts across the country are approaching and even surpassing pre-pandemic levels, so consumers are still spending money. Consumer confidence, reportedly spurred by the strong labor market, also seems at least cautiously on the rise. Continue reading →
Business Builders
Addressing retention issues for a more engaged workforce
Retention issues are a critical concern for businesses of all sizes and industries. High turnover rates can lead to increased costs associated with recruitment and training, reduced productivity and a negative impact on overall company culture. Recognizing the signs of retention issues and taking steps to address them can help organizations retain top talent and […] Continue reading →
Maximizing your proceeds from a business exit
Have you ever considered exiting your business but wondered what steps you can take to maximize your proceeds? You can do several things to maximize your price, terms and tax efficiency when you are ready to sell and enter the next chapter of life. Preparing your business for sale can be a long and complex […] Continue reading →
Community banking during turbulent times
It’s never been more important to partner with a banking institution that has a record of security and safety that you can rely upon. There are a lot of options for protecting your assets and you should do your due diligence before you trust any institution with your business. Community banks are an important resource […] Continue reading →
Effects of the recreational cannabis legislation
On May 30, 2023, Gov. Tim Walz signed into law House File 100, which legalizes recreational cannabis in the state of Minnesota. The new law, while ending the prohibition of cannabis in this state, also preserved the unique tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) beverage market, which arose out of legislation passed in 2022 whereby Minnesota became the only […] Continue reading →
Catching up
Learning how to pivot
When Jamin Arvig told Upsize in 2014 that his company, WaterFilters.net, was in its first chapter and that the book was certain to be a page turner, he was not kidding. The primarily e-commerce-driven water filter company had hit $37 million in revenue, up from $17 million in 2011 and $10 million in 2010, from […] Continue reading →



