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Town Talk: Why so many acronyms?

The City of New Ulm is not unique in its abundant use of acronyms. Every department shortens frequently used phrases (FUP) and titles to acronyms that become part of the language or culture in that area. If you hear a city staff member use an acronym you are not familiar with, it’s okay to stop the conversation and ask what it means. The purpose of this article is to introduce some new acronyms to the community that are coming out of the city.

SBDC

This is short for the Small Business Development Center – South Central Region office that is providing no-cost small business consulting services at City Hall during 2020. In an effort to support new and expanding small businesses, the City is making access easier to the Center’s assistance on financing, marketing, human resources, bookkeeping consulting services. Appointments can be made by calling the Mankato office at 507-389-8875. Of course, someone interested in the SBDC services can make appointments at other times, but the City is committed to providing the services here at City Hall two days a week. The next dates would be March 3 & 17 and April 7 & 21.

SBIPG

SBIPG stands for the Small Business Incentive Program Grant. New and emerging businesses can receive $10,000 in grant funds to reimburse for expenses incurred by opening the business. The grant is open to businesses with storefronts and in-home family childcare. In order to receive the funds, an application must be filled out, paid expenses receipts must be provided, and the applicant must receive consulting services from the SBDC (see above). Reimbursable expenses would include: licenses, flooring, lighting, equipment, rent, insurance, advertising, etc. For more information on this opportunity, contact Audra Shaneman at AudraS@newulmmn.gov or (507)233-2113.

NIXLE

Okay, not an acronym but a fun little word that is the name of a messaging platform used by the City to better communicate with residents and businesses. NIXLE allows residents, businesses and customers to sign up and receive alerts and notifications from the City. Example notifications would be snow emergencies, street closings or emergency road repairs. To sign up for NIXLE, text 56073 to 888777.

To find more information about what’s happening at the City, check out the website at www.newulmmn.gov.

Editor’s Note: The City of New Ulm presents a weekly column highlighting activities in different departments in the city government. Once a month the city will answer questions from readers. Questions on New Ulm city issues can be sent to comments@ci.new-ulm.mn.us.

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