Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) Executive Committee Chair Carol Anderson Receives 2025 Small Business Administration Minnesota Women in Business Champion of the Year

Minnesota Farmers Union (MFU) Executive Committee Chair Carol Anderson is the 2025 Small Business Administration Minnesota Women in Business Champion of the Year.

“Carol Anderson is a strong and dedicated leader who’s not afraid to take on tough projects and see them through. That’s been a great benefit to Minnesota Farmers Union and the many businesses she’s helped start and grow across our state,” said MFU President Gary Wertish. “Carol knows that it takes a system to make our economy work for everyone and that’s why she is involved at every step of the way from financing to workforce development and childcare. Whenever I get a call from a member who has a question about business finance or regulation, I refer them to Carol. She’s an incredible asset to our members and all Minnesotans. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award.”

Anderson is the executive director of Community Development of Morrison County. Under her leadership, the organization has grown into a critical resource for business financing and economic expansion. It administers more than $2 million in loan funds, offering businesses access to gap lending, industrial revenue bonds, SBA and USDA loan guarantees, tax increment financing and other innovative funding solutions.

Since 1997, the organization has financed more than 90 businesses and supported 100 loan projects, making a lasting impact on local economic development. Beyond financing, Anderson has helped adapt the organization’s mission to meet modern workforce challenges, advocating for job creation while addressing labor shortages. Through partnerships with regional colleges and workforce development centers, she has helped businesses access training and skilled employees, reinforcing Morrison County’s reputation for a hardworking and dependable labor force.

“Carol Anderson has provided a critical role in Morrison County for economic development and as a Women in Business Champion,” said Sandy Voigt, director of the Women’s Business Alliance, who nominated Anderson for the award. “Carol is the connector and promoter of all things business related, not only in Morrison County but statewide. Her background and education continue to contribute to the financial health of the county, downtown vitality and numerous business/industrial parks that are filled with active job creating businesses. I personally believe that several businesses in Morrison County are the direct result of Carol’s involvement and connection to resources and dedication to their success. In addition to her business accomplishments, she is a brilliant organist, creative and talented artist and friend to neighbors in need. Her farming roots were developed throughout her childhood, and she’s never lost the belief in the importance and value of farmers.”

Anderson will receive her award May 9, during National Small Business Week, May 4-10.

Learn more about the award at the Community Development of Morrison County website.

About Minnesota Farmers Union

Minnesota Farmers Union works to protect and enhance the economic interests and quality of life of family farmers and ranchers and rural communities. MFU is a nonprofit membership-based organization. Membership is open to everyone. Learn more and join at www.mfu.org and follow MFU on Facebook, X, Bluesky and Instagram.