The Albert Lea Business Development Center, housed under the ALEDA umbrella, serves as a place for entrepreneurs and small business owners of Freeborn County to gain access to the resources they need; such as SCORE mentoring, financing, entrepreneur programming through the Albert Lea Entrepreneur Advancement Program and incubator space.

According to a press release, the Albert Lea Business Development Center recently welcomed a new tenant, Albert Lea Gymnastics Club. Albert Lea Gymnastics Club, owned by Nicole LaFrance, is a gymnastics program for children of all ages, from toddler to teenagers. The club also plans to create an adaptive course for children with disabilities as well. Registration is now open, and classes are scheduled to start in November.

“The ALBDC provides not only a start-up space for our new gymnastics club, but the ALBDC also provides mentorship, assistance and connections within the community,” LaFrance said. “For a business just starting out, like us, these components lead to a road of success from the very beginning.”

Albert Lea Gymnastics Club will be utilizing two suites in the ALBDC, with plans to outgrow the space and relocate to a larger space in the community in the future.

“Knowing I was just starting out, there was a real fear to acquire a large building, one that needed large renovations, or a space with height restrictions for safety concerns,” LaFrance said. “However, the ALBDC is ideal for our club, as it gives us a foundation to start on and grow from. It inspires me to continue to grow and see my little dream come true.”

ALEDA is the local economic development organization made up of two separate entities — the city of Albert Lea Port Authority and Greater Jobs Inc. 

If you are a new or expanding business looking for assistance or potential help with gap financing, contact ALEDA at 507-373-3930.