MN HF3445

Appropriates $1,000,000 in fiscal year 2017 from the general fund to the commissioner of employment and economic development for grants to eligible organizations serving Southeast Asian business owners.

Designates three eligible organizations: Hmong 18 Clan Council, Hmong Chamber of Commerce, and Hmong American Vanguard Power Allegiance for Justice.

Grant funds may be used to provide technical assistance, business education and skill building, recruitment and outreach, and training in skilled trades and business finance to Hmong, Laotian, Karen, Thai, and Vietnamese business owners and aspiring business owners.

Permits grant recipients to use a portion of awards for administrative costs and staff hiring, with the specific percentage to be determined.

Establishes a one-time appropriation available until June 30, 2019.