Photos by Amy Gee
Meet Frank Brown, the entrepreneur who runs Minuteman Press – Uptown. His business is one of the 18 values-driven businesses that have come together in support of Pollen’s mission to invest in human connection. Together, they challenge Pollenites to raise $20,000 by Give to the Max Day on November 15, which they will match dollar for dollar.
Match the Hive and donate today.
All About Minuteman Press – Uptown
Frank Brown is the driving force behind the only African American-owned union printer in the country. Minuteman Press Uptown is a print media marketing company in Minneapolis. “We print everything!” Frank says. He’s right: Minuteman does graphic design, signage, promotional products, stationery, marketing materials, market consulting, and much more.
Let’s hear from Frank
Pollen: What are the critical stories in your community that need to be spotlighted?
Frank: Structural racism in Minnesota has greatly affected African American communities, and is the leading cause of great disparities in economics, housing, education, health care, and criminal justice.
These disparities magnify each other and further reinforce prejudices. Black professional flight from our communities has also exacerbated the situation.
Pollen: What are some of the biggest challenges in being a small business owner?
Frank: Access to capital is the biggest challenge for a small business owner. I have met many entrepreneurs over the years and they have all said the same—they cannot get access to capital. My own personal experience in starting my business with 33% down, credit score above 700, and 25 years experience in the industry. I could not get a loan from a bank.
Pollen: What is your greatest source of pride in your work?
Frank: I think the greatest source of pride in my work is seeing customers happy to support an African American owned business and knowing that they are getting quality products and fast service.
I told one of my clients that I appreciated him supporting my business because of our values.
He responded that he gets fast service, quality printing, and supporting a business with our values is just a bonus.
Pollen: Where do you look for inspiration?
Frank: I am a Christian and look to God for my inspiration. I keep my eyes open to hear him, and my ears open to see him. I learned as a kid that He is everywhere. That hasn’t changed.
Pollen: Why do you value being part of the Pollen community?
Frank: Being part of a community with our shared values is important. If we want to shape the world to reflect our values we have to show the world that our values help the most people. This is how we change the world.
Join Frank: DONATE TO MATCH THE HIVE TODAY
Find Minuteman Press – Uptown and give them an online hug for supporting Pollen.
Facebook: @MinutemanpressUptown, @frank.brown.739
LinkedIn: infinityalphaomega
Instagram: @infinityalphaomega