The Entrepreneur Fund and the Small Business Development Center in Cook County have helped an impressive list of businesses over the last year. Above: One is the Fly Box, a “pop-up” store on First Avenue in Grand Marais, owned and operated by Scott Sorensen. Left: Another is Fika Coffee, which was able to expand its operations into a shop in Lutsen where roasting and grinding is done in the same space that tasty coffee is served.
Although there’s never a shortage of great business ideas around the campfire, only a small percentage of people actually take the next step and do the hard work to make their vision a reality.
Working to support eager Cook County entrepreneurs with business plans, financial projections and business loans are two local organizations: the Entrepreneur Fund and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Steve Surbaugh, business advisor for the Entrepreneur Fund and Pat Campanaro, SBDC business consultant partner, are working to strengthen area business development. This season they are excited about many new establishments opening their doors, including:
. Fly Box & Company, a pop-up store located in the previously empty lot between KOy & Company and Gunflint Mercantile in Grand Marais. Owner Scott Sorensen re-purposed shipping containers with rustic barn wood siding to create an eye-catching, 640-square-feet retail space curated with fine goods from heritage brands like Orvis and Patagonia. In addition to retail, Sorensen offers guided fly fishing experiences on Cook County’s lakes and tributaries.
. Fika Coffee, a coffee shop in Lutsen opened by Josh Lindstrom. The shop will be more than a place to buy a cup of joe. Lindstrom embraces the full fika (Swedish coffee break) experience by creating a space for people to pause, relax and connect. Customers get to watch the big burlap bags of green coffee beans roasted and transformed into coffee beans to enjoy in the shop or at home.
. Elfvin’s Bakery in Grand Marais, which is partnering with Lindstrom to provide bakery treats and food at Fika Coffee. Rain Elfvin moved back home from Duluth last year and purchased the former Lola’s Sweet Life Bakery. His baking skills expanded the variety of items available to area residents. Eat in or take out the baked goods include scones, pies, and carrot cake. Elfvin’s bakery items can also be found at the Cook County Whole Foods Co-op, Angry Trout Café, and Dockside Fish Market.
. North Shore Electric, opened by master electrician Paul Wiegel, a master electrician who is known throughout Cook County. Wiegel offers both business and residential work and knows the importance of happy customers.
. Cook County Home Center, purchased by new owners Nate Shiels and Jeff Buetow, is a full service center for both the homeowner
and builder. New products arrive daily at the former Superior Lumber & Sports, and the knowledgeable staff prides itself on great customer service.
. The Hungry Hippie Hostel is Hovland’s newest business. Owned by Kate and Jeremy Kibble, the hostel offers affordable bunk and private room lodging in a newly renovated barn located on their family farm.
. Spirit Guiding Adventures, working out of Bearskin Lodge, is run by Lindsey Gau and Mathew Baxley. The wilderness–trained guides offer several group and individual adventures showcasing the area through climbing, rappelling and canoeing.
. Upstate MN, opened by new Cook County resident Kristofer Bowman, curates a smart shop reflecting the northern landscape through element, tone and materials in Grand Marais. The art gallery and shop provide home décor products and art for the northern home and lifestyle.
. Dollhouse Fine Art Miniatures was created by Jean Marie Modl, who believes that dollhouses are coming back bigger and better than ever. Jean Marie has the perfect piece of art for a dollhouse wall; special orders are accepted or choose from the unique variety of products on hand.
The Entrepreneur Fund also sponsors a program targeted for the area, eNFUSE Cook County. The program is designed to help emerging businesses increase revenue, expand capabilities and access financing. eNFUSE includes an array of programs and services to stimulate small business growth and business owner knowledge. These services include strategic advising and loans; programs include workshops on relevant business topics, networking events and an annual “Be Strategic: Grow Your Business” training program. The Entrepreneur Fund provides business financing up to $500,000.
For more information on the Entrepreneur Fund, contact Steve Surbaugh at (218) 370-9757 or email steves@entrepreneurfund.org. For Small Business Development Center information, contact Campanaro at pcampanaro@gmail.com.
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