Growth Innovations

06/23/2026

📢 Growth Innovations Announces Board Leadership Transition

Growth Innovations is proud to announce a new chapter in board leadership as longtime Board Chair Pat Murphy concludes his service and Mark Baloun steps into the role of Board Chair.

Since joining the Board in 2019, Pat has provided steady leadership and helped guide Growth Innovations through a period of meaningful growth, including expanded support for local businesses, workforce development initiatives, and partnerships that strengthen communities across Aitkin County. One notable achievement during his tenure was helping advance the development of a new 44-unit multifamily housing project in Aitkin, addressing a critical workforce housing need.

As Pat pursues a new opportunity to serve the community through his candidacy for Aitkin County Commissioner, we thank him for his dedication and lasting impact.

We are excited to welcome Mark Baloun as our new Board Chair. Since joining the Board in 2023, Mark has demonstrated a strong commitment to community development and civic engagement. We look forward to his leadership as Growth Innovations continues supporting business growth, housing development, workforce initiatives, and strategic partnerships throughout Aitkin County.

Please join us in thanking Pat Murphy for his service and congratulating Mark Baloun on his new role!
https://growthiv.org

06/16/2026

Did you know?

Small businesses account for the majority of new jobs created in rural communities.

Growth Innovations works to connect Aitkin County businesses with funding, resources, and strategic partnerships that help them grow stronger.

What business would you love to see open in Aitkin County?
https://growthiv.org

06/10/2026

🍦✨ SWEET NEWS FLASH!! ✨🍦

We have a massive, cherry-on-top shoutout to share as we gear up for Sundae Funday! 🍨

Tami over at Growth Innovations stepped up with a super generous $100 donation to sponsor our event prizes, and oh boy, did we have fun turning those dollars into some amazing giveaways!

Because of their kindness, three lucky winners are going to walk away with some fantastic local experiences:

🎬 Prize 1: A $25 gift card to the Rialto Theatre for a perfect movie night out!

🛍️ Prize 2: $25 in Aitkin Bucks, keeping it local and good at any participating Aitkin business!

🌲 Prize 3: A $50 gift card to grab an annual MN State Parks pass (plus a few extra dollars left over for some cool park merch or to put toward a weekend campsite!) 🏕️🥾

We are so incredibly grateful for community partners like Growth Innovations who help us bring extra joy, excitement, and growth to our programs. Thank you for investing in our community and making this fundraiser extra sweet!

Want a chance to win these great prizes and more?
Then we will see you at next week's Better Together - Aitkin Sundae Funday! event!!!

06/09/2026

☀️ Tourist season is here in Aitkin County!

As visitors begin filling our lakes, trails, campgrounds, shops, and restaurants, local businesses have a tremendous opportunity to make the most of the busy summer months. Tourism plays a vital role in our local economy, and Growth Innovations is here to help businesses grow, adapt, and succeed.

Whether you're looking to:
✅ Expand your business
✅ Improve your marketing efforts
✅ Explore funding opportunities
✅ Connect with local resources and partnerships
✅ Plan for long-term growth beyond the summer season

Our team is committed to supporting the businesses and entrepreneurs that make Aitkin County a destination people love to visit.

Let's make this a strong season for our community and local economy. If you're ready to explore opportunities for growth, connect with Growth Innovations today.
https://growthiv.org

05/26/2026

Things are moving right along at Bunker Hill Apartments! We toured the property last week, and the team is getting ready to start flooring installation — a big milestone as the interiors continue to take shape. Current target opening date: September 1 👏 Stay tuned for more progress updates! Stay tuned for more updates!

https://growthiv.org

05/21/2026

As Memorial Weekend begins, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. 🇺🇸

At Growth Innovations of Aitkin County, we’re proud to support the businesses, communities, and people who make this area such a special place to live, work, and visit.

Whether you're spending the weekend at the lake, supporting local events, or gathering with family and friends, we encourage everyone to shop local, stay safe, and take a moment to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day.

Wishing you a meaningful and memorable holiday weekend from all of us at Growth Innovations. https://growthiv.org

05/12/2026

At Growth Innovations, we do more than connect you to resources—we do the work to find the right ones for YOU.

Experts, financing, real estate—we’ve got you covered.

https://growthiv.org

05/07/2026

05/05/2026

From Smokey Jakes BBQ to Floe International, Growth Innovations has been part of many local success stories. We’re here to help your business be the next one.