24 Aug NDC-Supported Small Businesses at the Minnesota State Fair
The Minnesota State Fair is an exciting time of year for all Minnesotans. This year, it’s even more special with the presence of 12 small businesses supported by the Neighborhood Development Center (NDC). From delicious food and refreshing beverages to plant-based makeup and spicy sauces, these small businesses are making a big impact. By supporting these NDC-supported entrepreneurs, you are not only helping them achieve their dreams but also contributing to the economic development of the community. So, don’t miss the chance to explore and support these fantastic small businesses at the fair!
1. Afro Deli – New to the Fair!
Founder and CEO, Abdirahman Kahin, is excited to be one of the new vendors at this year’s. They will be serving up their sambusas (beef, veggie, and chicken), plantains, mango juice, and iced Somali spiced tea.
They will be in the Food Building, every day from August 24th – 29th.
2. Arepa Bar
Chef Soleil Ramirez, from Arepa Bar in Midtown Global Market, is coming back for her second year at the fair! Arepa Bar is a 100% Venezuelan Restaurant, located in the city of Minneapolis, offering arepas, tequenos, empanadas, juices, soups, and more! This year they will introduce the Smoked Beef Arepa, Yuca Sticks, and Cocada Drink.
They will be in the International Bazaar from August 30th to September 4th.
3. Dar Medina – New to the Fair!
Mostafa Khchich is the owner and operator of Dar Media, a Moroccan-owned family operation built on a great love for the people and tribes of Morocco. Mostafa has a passion for keeping the traditions of Morocco alive here in Minnesota. Be sure to check out his beautiful leather goods and hand-woven rugs at the State Fair!
They will be in the International Bazaar from August 24th – 29th.
4. Eastlake Craft Brewery
5. Lip Esteem – New to the fair!
Owner, Tameka Jones will be making her debut at the State Fair showcasing her plant-based lip products! She likes to say she helps people feel good “one tube at a time.” With more than 25 shades, the Lip Esteem look is plant-based, gluten-free, and cruelty-free, but full of life and vibrancy.
They will be on the second floor of the Grand Stand building from August 24th – September 2nd.
6. Manny’s Tortas
Owner, Manny Gonzalez is responsible for creating a State Fair staple: non-alcoholic Piñas Coladas served in a real pineapple! Manny’s Tortas is located in the Midtown Global Market and they specialize in making Mexican fast food with a gourmet touch. Grab a torta and a Piñas Colada to go!
They will be in the Food Building every day from August 24th – September 4th.
7. K Mama Sauce
Owner and founder, K.C. Kye is thrilled to have K-Mama Sauce at the fair this year. They will offer a range of their most popular sauces (mild to hot, gluten-free options, and more!) They will also office trendy shirts, sweaters, and pocket-sized bottles for you to add some extra spice to your State Fair favorites.
They will be located on the Ground Level of the Grand Stand every day from August 24th – 29th.
8. Momo Dosa – New to the Fair!
Co-owners Rashmi Bhattachan & Chef Sarala Kattel are bringing a fast-casual concept of popular Street foods from Nepal and India to the Minnesota State Fair. Dive into vibrant Asian flavors of delicate chicken momos, crispy dosas, savory pakoras, and refreshing mango lassi.
They will be in the International Bazaar from August 24th – 29th.
9. NĀTIFS
Join the Indigenous Food Lab for another Indigenous Peoples’ Day at the Minnesota State Fair! They’ll be at Dan Patch Park on Sunday, August 27th, celebrating and discussing Indigenous food sovereignty and land management. They’ll host leaders of other Indigenous organizations, knowledge keepers, chefs, and entertainers taking the stage.
They will be at the Dan Patch Park on Sunday, August 27th starting at 9am.
10. The Produce Exchange
The Produce Exchange in the Midtown Global Market is your one-stop shop for the freshest produce in town. They are your year-round farmers market! The Produce Exchange has a great variety of fruits, vegetables, and grocery items with a strong emphasis on local and organic products.
They will be at the fair every day from August 24th – 29th.
11. Tibet Arts and Gifts – New to the Fair!
Ngawang Dakpa is the owner and operator of Tibet Arts & Gifts. It is one of the anchor businesses that have been at Midtown Global Market since its start. Once an auditor for the Tibetan government, Ngawang was part of the early waves of Tibetan immigrants settling in Minnesota in the 1990’s. He sells beautiful dresses, jewelry, and scarves to Tibetans living in India and Nepal.
They will be in the International Bazaar Building from August 30th – September 4th.
12. West Indies Soul Food
Sharon Richards-Noel will be back this year serving up authentic Caribbean and Southern soul food. If you crave the excitement of steel drums and the spices of Trinidad, visit West Indies Soul Food at the Minnesota State Fair this summer.
They will be in the International Bazaar every day from August 24th – September 4th.
13. El Burrito Mercado
The family-owned business is back and better than ever this year! They are selling jewelry, calaveras, Frida Kahlo, toys, garden goodies, and more! They buy beautiful gifts from makers and artists in Mexico.
They are in the International Bazaar every day from August 24th – September 4th.
About Neighborhood Development Center:
NDC is a non-profit, community development financial institution that believes residents of low-income, inner-city neighborhoods have entrepreneurial talent and energy that represent powerful assets available to help revitalize communities. NDC provides entrepreneur training, small business lending (and Sharia-acceptable financing), business services and real estate incubators that help our clients start and grow vital small businesses. For more information, visit www.ndc-mn.org.