By William Smith
The economic landscape in Coon Rapids is buzzing with activity—from new businesses opening their doors to robust support for entrepreneurs and ongoing efforts by the city to sustain growth and resilience. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening in the local business scene.
New and Expanding Businesses
Several businesses have recently joined or expanded in Coon Rapids, contributing to rising commercial diversity and increased job options for residents. Highlights include:
- Bloom Wellness, the city’s first cannabis retail location, set to open at 2740 Main Street in a former retail space formerly occupied by Batteries & Bulbs.
- Crave Hotdogs & BBQ planning its entry into the market by taking over a former Subway spot at the same Main Street address.
- Honey Baked Ham opening its first stand-alone location in Coon Rapids at 13111 Riverdale Drive — offering locals simplified access to their holiday and everyday favorites.
- Retailers like Dollar Tree moving into previously vacant properties, and other service businesses such as Foxie Nails & Spa and Hand & Stone Massage filling spaces in busy shopping corridors.
Entrepreneurship & Business Support
Coon Rapids isn’t just attracting businesses—it aims to help them thrive. Key resources are in place for both existing business owners and those just getting started:
- The Open to Business Program, a partnership between the city and the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD), offers free one-on-one counseling in areas like strategic planning, financial management, marketing, real estate analysis and more.
- Anoka County’s Low Interest Revolving Loan Fund helps local businesses access financing for working capital, asset purchases, and other growth needs.
- Educational pathways like the Entrepreneurship Certificate at Anoka-Ramsey Community College give aspiring business owners foundational skills in business management and marketing.
City Priorities & Economic Strengths
Coon Rapids is laying groundwork to foster a robust and sustainable business climate. Among the priorities are:
- Diversifying the tax base and expanding the commercial footprint along the city’s major corridors.
- Retaining local businesses by improving city services, streamlining regulation, and developing incentives to grow in place rather than relocate.
- Focusing on industries that combine growth potential with resilience—healthcare, retail, professional services—and cities identified as targets for clean industrial or service-oriented expansion.
What This Means for Locals
For residents, these trends bring more than just new storefronts. The influx of businesses adds employment choices closer to home and greater variety in services and food offerings. Entrepreneurs benefit from financial tools and education, reducing barriers to starting something new. And for the city, diversified and sustainable growth strengthens the tax base and builds long-term economic stability.
People considering entering the business world in Coon Rapids should take advantage of the Open to Business program, explore financing options with Anoka County, and engage with city initiatives that encourage visibility, partnership, and strategic expansion.
It’s clear the business & economy beat in Coon Rapids is evolving—and those who pay attention now will be best positioned to shape what comes next.