The city and the Bloomington Port Authority are setting the date for the 2026 Bloomington Business Forum, a free morning session on October 7 built around the theme "Building a Resilient Economy: Investing in Bloomington Businesses." It runs 8-10 a.m. at the Bloomington Civic Plaza's City Council Chambers, 1800 W. Old Shakopee Road.
The stated goal isn't just networking — organizers say the forum's community input is meant to help guide the city's economic development planning for the next 20 years. The Port Authority, the city's economic development arm since the 1980s redevelopment of the old Metropolitan Stadium site that became the Mall of America, has since expanded its work citywide, covering real estate development, small business assistance, and public art in new development.
The agenda includes a regional economic trends presentation from GreaterMSP, a look at new procurement opportunities for local businesses, and a showcase of city programs including the Small Business Assistance Grant and Hatch Bloomington, the city's pitch competition that has handed out $100,000 awards to local entrepreneurs since 2024. This year, the program has shifted focus toward existing businesses under a rebrand as Hatch Bloomington Loves Local, offering financial help to up to five established Bloomington companies rather than funding a single new concept.
Attendance is free but capacity is limited. Registration opens July 28 and closes September 25, through Eventbrite via the city's business forum page. Questions go to the city's Business Assistance office at 952-563-4706 or the Port Authority at 952-563-8873.