Minnesota business optimism 2026 is rebounding as small and midsize leaders plan growth, hiring, and expansion despite labor and tariff concerns.
Minneapolis
Posted inArts + Culture
Planting Seeds of Change Through Storytelling: Two Exciting Writing Opportunities
PPGJLI writing competitions invite Saint Paul residents and Minnesota youth to submit original poetry, essays, and stories celebrating culture, justice, and leadership.
Posted inBlack History
Local Black historic landmarks too often go unnoticed
Twin Cities Black history landmarks including Rondo Avenue, Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, and Penumbra Theatre reflect resilience, leadership, and community legacy.
Posted inLocal & State
Supporters rally as Georgia Fort pleads not guilty to federal charges
The Georgia Fort press freedom case prompted a rally outside a St. Paul federal courthouse, where supporters warned of broader threats to journalists and First Amendment rights.
Posted inEvents
Twin Cities BIPOC Music Showcase Celebrates Black History Month at Can Can Wonderland
The Twin Cities BIPOC Music Showcase celebrates Black History Month Feb. 28 at Can Can Wonderland with live music, art, and community connection.
Posted inLocal & State
Protesters Plead Not Guilty in FACE Act Case Stemming From Cities Church Demonstration
Nekima Levy Armstrong FACE Act charges advance after she and Don Lemon pleaded not guilty in federal court over a January protest at Cities Church.
Posted inEvents
Minneapolis NAACP to Host 2026 Black Love, Self Love Wellness Experience
The Minneapolis NAACP Black Love Self Love wellness experience returns Feb. 21, highlighting six pillars of holistic healing and community empowerment.
Posted inLocal & State
Activists claim victory as “Operation Metro Surge” ends, concerns over ICE cooperation
Operation Metro Surge Minnesota is ending after nearly two months as activists credit protests and officials describe a negotiated drawdown.
Posted inLocal & State
Richfield Police Arrest, Release 2 dozen protesters at Target Amid ICE Demonstrations
The Richfield Target protest resulted in 2 dozen arrests after demonstrators staged a sit-in demanding the retailer cut ties with ICE following January detentions inside the store.
Posted inDigital Editions
MSR Digital Edition for February 12 – February 18, 2026
The MSR Digital Edition for February 12 – February 18, 2026 is now live. Explore community news, sports, arts, and events. Edition 28, Volume 92.
Posted inLocal & State
Community resolve stiffens as ICE threat persists
Alex Pretti memorial in South Minneapolis has become a gathering place for mourning and protest following his fatal shooting.
Posted inBlack Business Spotlight
Inner Peace
Inner Peace Fragrance Minneapolis began in Opal Robinson’s home kitchen, where she mixed personal care products for herself. Today, her handcrafted body oils, incense, soaps, and candles are sold at Midtown Global Market, offering customers sustainable ingredients, long-lasting scents, and a space centered on warmth and respect.
Posted inLocal & State
Local Economies Reeling as Immigration Crackdown Undercuts Trump’s Jobs Promise
Black small business economic impact is being felt across Minnesota as immigration enforcement drives customers and workers into hiding.
Posted inSister Spokesman
Sister Spokesman brings community together to address domestic violence
Black community domestic violence awareness took center stage at Sister Spokesman’s February event focused on healthy relationships and healing.
Posted inBlack History
‘Our First Bus Ride’ brings Hale-Field school integration history to life
Black history Minneapolis school integration is explored in a new children’s book recounting the 1971 Hale-Field Elementary bus ride.
Posted inLocal & State
Eviction crisis looms as ICE surge continues
ICE occupation in Minneapolis is increasing housing insecurity as residents lose income, avoid work, and face eviction without immediate protections.
Posted inBlack History
Attendees find solidarity, solace at Black History Market
A Black History Month market at Arbeiter Brewing created space for community reflection, support of Black-owned businesses, and collective care.
Posted inLocal & State
Trump threats to MN cause widespread confusion
Community organizations across Minnesota are preparing for increased demand as threats to sanctuary city funding create fear and disrupt access to services.
Posted inBlack History
Long-overdue recognition for the Minnesota Up-Towns
The Minnesota Up-Towns were a dominant Black basketball team in the 1920s whose legacy has long been overlooked in state history.
Posted inTracey’s Keepin' It Real
Librarians, Literature & Black History Month
Tracey’s Keepin’ It Real features Twin Cities librarians discussing Black literature, community storytelling, and a Black History Month library read-in.