Let’s face it—finding the right investors in Minnesota can sometimes feel like looking for a needle in a haystack. Whether you’re an entrepreneur with a brilliant idea, a real estate investor looking to expand, or a small business owner trying to make your mark, connecting with the right people can make all the difference. But how do you find these investors? And what makes the right connection? Well, you’re in luck because in this blog, we’ll dive into how to find the best investors for your next venture—without the stress and frustration.
As someone who’s been in the business world for years, Reilly Brennan, host of the Brennan Buzz podcast, has made plenty of valuable connections in Minnesota’s investment scene. From real estate deals to small business ventures, Reilly’s learned a thing or two about where to find investors and how to build lasting relationships. So let’s break it down!
- Leverage Local Networking Events and Meetups
Networking events are goldmines for finding investors—if you’re attending the right ones. Minnesota offers plenty of opportunities for business owners and investors to connect. Reilly regularly attends these gatherings, often engaging with like-minded individuals in real estate, tech, and hospitality.
For example, if you’re looking to connect with real estate investors, events like Minnesota Real Estate Investors Association (MNREIA) meetups are a great place to start. Tech enthusiasts can explore connections at MINNE, a community for Minnesota’s tech scene. Another standout is the Heirloom Investing Meetup, which attracts a diverse group of investors interested in sustainable and innovative ventures.
The key to success? Show up consistently and focus on building relationships. Great connections don’t happen overnight.
Pro Tip: Don’t attend networking events armed with just a pitch. Invest time in getting to know people. Strong relationships, built on trust and shared goals, are the foundation for successful investments.
2. Utilize Social Media and Online Platforms
Okay, I get it—social media can be a jungle sometimes. But it’s also one of the best ways to connect with investors today, especially in Minnesota. Platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and even Instagram are fantastic for building your network, engaging with investors, and showcasing your ideas.
Reilly is active on LinkedIn, where he connects with local Minnesota investors and entrepreneurs. He shares valuable insights from his podcast Brennan Buzz and posts about real estate trends, small business tips, and even local Minnesota events. If you’re not already on LinkedIn, it’s time to hop on! Craft a professional profile, engage with posts, and join groups related to your industry. If you’re into real estate, there are local LinkedIn groups where Minnesota investors share deals, tips, and opportunities.
Pro Tip: Don’t be shy! Reach out to investors whose posts resonate with you. Keep your message short, respectful, and to the point. Building relationships online can often lead to offline opportunities.
3. Seek Out Local Angel Investor Networks
Angel investors are often the unsung heroes of the startup world. These individuals—sometimes successful entrepreneurs themselves—are looking for the next big idea and are willing to provide early-stage funding to help you grow your business. Minnesota has several angel investor networks that are great places to start looking for connections.
For example, Minnesota Angel Network (MN Angel) and The Funded Founders are two local networks that connect entrepreneurs with potential investors. Many of these investors are passionate about supporting businesses in Minnesota and often have deep roots in the community.
Reilly’s journey in building a business portfolio wouldn’t have been the same without the support of angel investors. In his early ventures, such as opening his fast-food business, he sought out investors who were passionate about supporting local, small businesses—and that support made all the difference.
Pro Tip: When you’re looking for angel investors, remember that they often invest in people just as much as ideas. Be sure to demonstrate your passion, experience, and commitment to building a successful business.
- Get Involved in Minnesota’s Local Business Communities
If you want to find Minnesota investors, you’ve got to get involved in the local business communities. This doesn’t mean just attending events or joining online groups—it means actively participating in the growth of Minnesota’s economy. Attend local chamber of commerce meetings, support small businesses, and immerse yourself in local entrepreneurial ecosystems.
For instance, the Minneapolis Regional Chamber and St. Paul Area Chamber of Commerce host events, leadership programs, and networking opportunities that bring investors, business owners, and entrepreneurs together. Organizations like the Northland Foundation and the Duluth Entrepreneur Fund (or E Fund) are also instrumental in fostering connections and supporting local businesses in northern Minnesota. These groups provide resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to grow, making them excellent platforms to engage with potential investors.
Getting involved in these organizations helps you become a part of the community, which in turn can make it easier to form the connections you need. Reilly is an advocate for supporting local businesses, and he’s made many valuable connections through his involvement in these very communities. He believes that the stronger the local community, the stronger the local economy—and he’s built his investment strategy around this belief.
Pro Tip: When attending business events, focus on making genuine connections instead of trying to immediately pitch your idea. A warm introduction and a shared connection can go a long way in building investor relationships.
- Consider a Mentorship or Coaching Program
Sometimes, finding the right investor can come down to having the right mentor. Reilly, who has years of experience in real estate, hotels, and small businesses, has benefited greatly from the guidance of mentors who have helped him make smarter investments and connect with key players in Minnesota’s investment scene.
Programs like The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) offer mentorship opportunities for entrepreneurs, while private mentorship networks can help you connect with investors who are willing to help guide your business toward success. Additionally, the eFund offers business plan coaching to help you refine your strategy and prepare for investor conversations, but it’s just as important to seek out the right mentor for personalized guidance.
Pro Tip: A mentor doesn’t just help you grow—they can also introduce you to their network of investors, which might be exactly what you need to take your business to the next level.
Final Thoughts: Building Your Investment Network in Minnesota
Finding the right investors in Minnesota is all about building genuine relationships, staying involved in your local business community, and using platforms like social media and networking events to connect. Whether you’re diving into real estate or launching a new business, there’s no shortage of opportunities to meet like-minded investors who are passionate about helping Minnesota grow. And remember, Reilly Brennan’s podcast Brennan Buzz is a great resource for insights on how to navigate the world of investments and business in Minnesota.
Want to hear more about building your network and finding the right investors? Tune in to Brennan Buzz! Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to stay inspired and connected.
