
Focus your BHAG
No one disputes the need for an effective elevator speech, but nailing down your vision may seem too touchy-feely to spend time on. Big mistake.

How to develop a killer core competency
A core competency doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s well worth the time and effort.

Applied Energy Solutions
Applied Energy Solutions, entered an Economic Gardening program hosted by the Greater Rochester Enterprise in August 2012, wanting to improve the company’s brand strategy and recognition.

Clockwork Active Media
Lyons entered the Hennepin-Anoka-Carver-Ramsey-Scott (HCARS) Economic Gardening Program in 2014 looking for information to help Clockwork expand into new geographic markets.

DNA Software
DNA Software is an Ann Arbor-based software firm that helps university, biotech and pharmaceutical researchers build diagnostic tests for life-sciences projects.

Hed Cycling: Getting out of the comfort zone
A pioneer of solid disc bicycle wheels, Hed Cycling designs and manufactures high-end cycling equipment. Launched in 1985, the Shoreview, Minn.-based company today has about 45 employees and generates more than ...

The Reflective Group
Since its launch in 2011, Reflective Group has evolved from software development to a full-fledged digital agency that offers graphic design and video production services along with cloud technology solutions.

Global Tax Network
In Fall 2011, the Hennepin-Carver Economic Gardening Network initiated a new approach to delivering services to second-stage entrepreneurs: the consolidation of research assistance, monthly roundtables and quarterly forums.

Patriot Converting Inc.
“Overall, the program was a great sense of community and resources,” Stilwell says. “Everything is about driving growth and getting more out of your business.”

The Porch Swing
Kueny worked with the research team in mid-2010. Within a year, her sales had shot up 40 percent and marketing costs dropped nearly 60 percent. In 2011 annual sales exceeded $1 ...