Development Partnership grants provide funds for research, planning, education and development-based initiatives that support the long-term economic growth of northeastern Minnesota.
Contact: Shawn Herhusky, Shawn.Herhusky@state.mn.us or 218-735-3067.
Grant Cycle Dates: July 1, 2024 – May 31, 2025.
Eligible applicants: Cities, townships, nonprofits, Tribal governments and governmental entities created pursuant to Minnesota Statutes located within the agency's service area.
Multi-organization collaboration is encouraged.
Close Bunk, a Tower-based Made in America business launched its patent-pending product to the open market in Fall 2021. Owner and product developer Patti Stoddard utilized the Northland Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to help fill technical gaps in the process of introducing her Doggy Bunk Bed product online and in retail stores. SBDC assisted Patti with financial perspectives, marketing and selecting an online shipping system. The Doggy Bunk Bed arose out of Stoddard’s desire three years ago to invent something that improved sleeping arrangements with her dogs in her bed and enable her and her husband to get a better night’s sleep. After several prototypes, the final product is an elevated bunk bed that attaches to the end of the owner’s bed and allows space for the owner’ full leg extension. The bunk is capable of holding very large dogs and is sturdy with dogs jumping on and off of it. The Made in America bed frames are manufactured in Minnesota by Ritz Machine in Cambridge and Carsten’s Fiberglass in Melrose. The Doggy Bunk Bed comes in two sizes, holds up to 190 pounds and is adjustable for bed height and width. The mattresses and mattress covers are made in a variety of colors and prints by four local seamstresses.
