New Ulm Economic Development Authority

04/08/2026

📊 Big News for Our Community!

We’re excited to share a powerful insight from Placer.ai data—visitors to New Ulm spent an estimated $18.9 million over the past year, up from $16.5 million the year before. 🎉

So what does this mean for us?

💼 Stronger Local Businesses – Increased visitor spending supports our shops, restaurants, and service providers, helping them grow and thrive.

👷 More Jobs & Opportunities – As businesses see more activity, it can lead to job creation and expanded services.

🏗️ Investment in Our Community – Higher economic activity strengthens our tax base, helping fund improvements to infrastructure, parks, and public amenities.

🎯 Proof We’re a Destination – More people are choosing to visit, shop, dine, and spend time here—and that’s something to be proud of!

This growth reflects the hard work of our local businesses, the success of our events, and the welcoming spirit of our community. Let’s keep the momentum going!

04/03/2026

📢 City Update: Enhancing Our Community with Data

The City of New Ulm is excited to announce a new partnership with Placer.ai to better understand and serve our community.

✨ What does this mean?

We’ll be using anonymized, aggregated, real-time foot traffic data to:

📍 Support local businesses with valuable market insights
🌳 Improve public spaces and guide thoughtful city planning
🎉 Enhance community events and experiences

🔒 Privacy First - Placer.ai follows strict privacy standards. All data is aggregated and does not track or identify individuals.

Together, we’re taking a data-driven approach to building a stronger, more vibrant community!

03/19/2026

Small Employers: Did you know that MN offers Small Employer Assistance Grants to help cover costs when an employee has taken leave under the new Paid Family Leave program?

If you qualify as a small employer under Paid Leave, you can apply for a grant to help cover costs when an employee has
taken leave. These grants help manage the cost of hiring temporary workers, increasing hours or wages, or training staff
while an employee is out on Paid Leave.

Grants offer up to $3,000 per approved leave, with a maximum of $6,000 per employer each calendar year. This is a
reimbursement program. Grant funding is for costs already incurred. The program is funded at $5,000,000 annually, and
once those funds are fully used, we will not accept additional applications that calendar year. Expenses incurred before
January 1, 2026, are not eligible.

More information on the grants is available on the following website.

Paid Leave is a way for small employers to support employees when they need it most. Find resources and information to help make Paid Leave work for you and your organization.

02/25/2026

01/13/2026

The New Ulm Economic Development Authority (EDA) is pleased to announce the opening of its 2026 Small Business Incentive Grant application window from February 2, 2026, to March 31, 2026. This initiative aims to support local small business startups and enhance economic growth in our community. Applications will be accepted online only.

This grant program prioritizes funding for businesses in the following sectors: restaurants, retail, childcare, and light manufacturing. Funds are limited and submitting an application does not guarantee funding. We expect to award five grants in 2026.

Eligibility and Application Process:
Businesses interested in applying must meet specific criteria and submit their applications through our dedicated online portal. Detailed information on eligibility requirements and the application process can be found at www.newulmbusiness.com/incentives. The application will be made available on February 2, 2026.

Key Dates:
• Application Open: February 2, 2026
• Application Close: March 31, 2026

For additional information or inquiries contact:
Heather Bregel
Economic Development Director
New Ulm Economic Development Authority
(507)233-2107
[email protected]

Vision Statement: Be recognized as the trusted partner and leader in shaping a vibrant, resilient, and competitive community for generations to come. As an organization, we drive innovation, attract investment, and create lasting opportunities for both residents and businesses. Mission Statement: Fo...

12/09/2025

After nearly 30 years in business, Bookshelves & Coffeecups will be closing their doors. The City of New Ulm extends our heartfelt gratitude for your decades of dedication, hard work, and the countless memories you’ve helped create. Your presence has been an important part of the vibrancy and success of our beautiful downtown.

As you step into retirement, we wish you all the joy, rest, and new adventures you truly deserve. Thank you for being such a valued part of our community — enjoy this well-earned new chapter!

10/31/2025

Exciting news for downtown New Ulm!

New Ulm EDA Highlights Local Businesses' Commitment to Community

The New Ulm EDA is thrilled to announce a special feature celebrating local businesses that are dedicated to investing in our community. It is vital to acknowledge and support companies that continue to thrive as we navigate through a dynamic landscape.

Congratulations to The Coffee Keller on officially moving into their new, larger, STREET LEVEL location in the heart of downtown! This exciting expansion allows them to better serve their customers and continue roasting up great things for our community.

With an investment of $520,000 to purchase and renovate their new space — and by working with several local businesses including Paul's Electric, Gag Sheet Metal, and Cala Contemporary Woodwork — this project is another great example of how local businesses continue to reinvest in New Ulm’s downtown and support our local economy.

They proudly serve White Boxer Coffee and treats from Becky's Bakes, further supporting other New Ulm small businesses.

Financing for this project was provided by Citizens Bank, New Ulm EDA, Brown County Economic Development Partners and Region 9.

Be sure to stop by, check out their beautiful new space, and grab your favorite drink to celebrate this milestone with them! ☕🥐

The New Ulm EDA is dedicated to fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. Our goal is to create a thriving local economy by highlighting and celebrating the efforts of businesses that invest in our community.

10/13/2025

New Ulm is featured again in Business View Magazine! 🎉

This recognition highlights the strength of our local businesses, community pride, and the teamwork that makes our city thrive. Together, we’re showing what’s possible for small rural communities!

PROGRESS INT WITH GROWTH NEW ULM, MN AT A GLANCE NEW ULM, MINNESOTA WHAT: A small city on the Minnesota River, known for its strong German heritage, historic

10/10/2025

Exciting News from Downtown! 🥐🍰

New Ulm EDA Highlights Local Businesses' Commitment to Community

The New Ulm EDA is thrilled to announce a special feature celebrating local businesses that are dedicated to investing in our community. It is vital to acknowledge and support companies that continue to thrive as we navigate through a dynamic landscape.

We’re thrilled to share that The Backerei & Coffee Shop in downtown New Ulm has completed a beautiful remodel and expanded their menu of baked goods and other treats!

The new space offers a fresh, welcoming atmosphere and even more delicious options — from classic pastries and breads to new specialty desserts, espresso, cold brew and lotus drinks, breakfast sandwiches, lunch options including salads, sandwiches and wraps, grab and go cakes and Bridgeman's ice cream. It’s the perfect spot to grab breakfast and lunch, meet a friend, or pick up something sweet for home.

Their remodel project cost $120,000 and took eight weeks. During that time, they were able to continue making their regular deliveries and selling products at pop ups, the farmer's market, and with side door pickups.

Not only did they make major improvements to a New Ulm staple, but they also used several area businesses from United Prairie Bank to Rickway Carpet and Flooring, Domeier Construction, JLV Tile & Flooring, Design Home, NU Current Electric, Tauber Plumbing, Lietzau Cabinetry, Paint Boy and Sheetrock Shane, further circulating money throughout our community.

A big congratulations to Amanda, Bill, and the entire team for their investment in downtown New Ulm and continued commitment to serving our community. Stop by soon to see the updates and taste what’s new! 💙

The New Ulm EDA is dedicated to fostering community engagement and supporting local businesses. Our goal is to create a thriving local economy by highlighting and celebrating the efforts of businesses that invest in our community.

09/18/2025

Has your business outgrown its space? Are you looking for the perfect commercial space to take your business to the next level? Whether you're opening a new storefront, expanding your office, or setting up a warehouse, the right location can make all the difference! Check out available properties here:

https://newulmbusiness.com/property-search-analysis-2/

09/16/2025

All Are Welcome!

Join us for a Welcoming Week event, presented by the New Ulm Human Rights Commission.

Welcoming Week is a nationwide movement that brings neighbors together to celebrate community, culture, and belonging. New Ulm is proud to participate in this effort to create a future where everyone feels at home in our community!