2026 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference

Join the University of Minnesota Extension and partners for the seventh annual Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) Conference, taking place September 17–18 in St. Joseph, Minnesota.

This two-day conference brings together entrepreneurs, economic development professionals, local leaders, and community champions from across the state to explore strategies for building stronger entrepreneurial ecosystems. Through keynote presentations, mobile workshops, peer learning opportunities, and networking, attendees will gain practical ideas and resources to help support entrepreneurship in their own communities.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

Hear from St. Joseph entrepreneurs and community leaders about their local business successes.
Connect with peers from across Minnesota who are strengthening entrepreneurial support networks.
Learn from state and national experts about funding opportunities, community development resources, and technical assistance.

Explore new ideas and best practices that can help entrepreneurs and communities thrive.

Event Details

Dates: Thursday, September 17 – Friday, September 18, 2026
Location: Gorecki Center at the College of Saint Benedict
Address:

D37 College Ave. S
St. Joseph, MN 56374

Registration:

Early Bird: $125 through August 21
Regular Registration: $175 beginning August 22

*Registration closes on Thursday, September 10, 2026.

Learn more and register through the University of Minnesota Extension conference registration page:

https://extension.umn.edu/event/2026-connecting-entrepreneurial-communities-conference

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