Michael Heen

Central MN Small Business Development Center

• What is your current role? Director of the Central Minnesota Small Business Development Center
• How long have you been in your current role? Since February 2025
• What is something people may not know about you? I have a twin brother.
• What is your favorite part of your position? I love helping entrepreneurs, whether it is helping to get a new business off the ground or expanding an existing one. The best part about this job is the opportunity to help others. 
• What is a hope or dream for growth within your position/company? I want the SMBC to be the premier resource for professional and technical consulting in Central Minnesota.

Events & Cohort

Information

START.UP CONNECT - This free meetup is for entrepreneurs, innovators, creatives, and community members to come together and share their startup story with founders from central MN and beyond. At the core, this event will place an emphasis on creating connections and sharing stories. Check out the details for our 6/4 event here.

Upcoming Launch MN Events

Launch Minnesota’s calendar contains events from organizations across the state. This is your place to find networking groups, pitch competitions, coffee clubs, learning opportunities and more, both in your region and throughout Minnesota.

Loon's Liar Entrepreneur Pitch Competition

6/7   I   Minneapolis, MN

This competition is open to startups and growing businesses across industries, offering the chance to pitch live to a panel of top investors and gain access to funding, mentorship, and visibility. We see this as a springboard for future business leaders—and with your reach and reputation, your support could make a significant difference.

• Event Moderator: Glenn McMahon | Vice President, Banker at JP Morgan
• Who Should Apply: Startups and growing businesses across all industries
• Registration Fees: FREE
• Applications Open: Now through early May
• Apply Here: www.icocmn.org/loonslair
• Contact: aanchal.singhal@icocmn.org

10 [C]hats - "AI Solutions for Every Hat Your Wear "

6/10    l    9am-4pm   I    Pricing: $149

A one-day conference designed specifically for small business owners looking to harness the power of artificial intelligence safely and effectively. This event will provide practical insights into how AI can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth—without compromising security or ethics. You’ll learn how to turn the many roles you juggle into AI-powered assistants that help you save time, think smarter, and get more done with less stress.

Attendees will:

• Learn from industry experts
• Hands-on workshops
• Engage in , and discover AI tools that are accessible, affordable, and impactful for businesses of all sizes.

Are you hosting an entrepreneur-focused event that is open to all?

Please submit information for the event here!

Have questions? Either respond to this email or contact the sender on jweber@greaterstcloud.com