HF 2839 Summary

• Requires the Office of Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (OESBD) in the Department of Employment and Economic Development to develop, maintain, and market a virtual network called the Minnesota Entrepreneur Resource Virtual Network (MERVN) using private sector funding.

• Network must provide seamless access to statewide resources and expertise for entrepreneurs and existing businesses, connecting them to state and nonstate supported services and technical assistance.

• All resources listed in the network must meet established standards, with the goal of assisting in creation of new ventures, growth of existing businesses, and enabling Minnesota entrepreneurs to compete globally.

• Commissioner of employment and economic development must seek sufficient private sector funding to develop and maintain the network.

• Commissioner must report to legislative committee chairs and lead minority members on the department's plans and progress toward network development by September 30, 2010.