About The
Como Front Dale Collective
Why We Exist
The Como–Front–Dale area of Saint Paul is home to a wide range of small businesses — makers, service providers, artists, food entrepreneurs, and independent professionals. While businesses have long operated here, the district has often been overlooked compared to more visible commercial areas of the city.
The CFD Collective formed when a group of local business owners began meeting to talk about how we could support one another and strengthen the neighborhood we all work in. We realized that by collaborating — sharing knowledge, improving the district, and helping new businesses connect with resources — we could create more opportunities for small businesses to grow here.
Our goal is simple: help make the Como–Front–Dale district a place where micro‑businesses, makers, and entrepreneurs can start, grow, and succeed.
Who’s Behind the Collective
The CFD Collective is organized by a small steering committee of local business owners who volunteer their time to support and coordinate the effort.
Steering Committee
- Jessica Willman – South Como Co-op
- Matt Banker – Banker Creative Group
- Inti Martínez-Alemán - Ceiba Fôrte Law Firm, Abogados Café
- Kate Hersey - Minnesota Tool Library
- Maria Petrova - Sheercraft
- Harry Fulford - Better Road Foundation
- Brad Abrahamson - Capitol Lien
- Maria Snyder - Rainbow Daycare
- Cathy Velasquez - Velasquez Family Coffee
What We’ve Done —
and What We’re Building
Members of the CFD Collective meet monthly to share ideas, coordinate efforts, and look for ways to strengthen the neighborhood business community.
If you are interested in getting involved, email Jessica (president@southcomocoop.org)
What We've Done So Far
Working together, members of the collective have helped secure grant funding and partner with Saint Paul District 6 and Saint Paul District 10 to support small community improvements in the area.
These efforts have included installing bike racks and building wooden planters and benches throughout the neighborhood (designed and built by local makers). We have also begun building a directory of local businesses and highlighting available commercial spaces so new businesses can more easily find opportunities in the district.
What We're Working Toward
As the collective continues to grow, we’re exploring several ways to support businesses and strengthen the district, including:
- Hosting workshops and educational events for entrepreneurs
- Connecting business owners with resources such as accounting, legal, and marketing support
- Helping home‑based businesses transition into commercial spaces
- Attracting more makers, startups, and small businesses to the area
- Securing grants and funding for neighborhood improvements
- Continuing to build a strong and collaborative business community in Como–Front–Dale
The CFD Collective is still evolving, but its foundation remains simple: neighbors supporting neighbors and businesses helping businesses succeed.
