The state's lodging and tourism industry is getting some federal help to recoup losses from this year's mainly non-existent winter.
Businesses, resorts, and others that depend on winter tourism are eligible to borrow up to $2 million in federal funding. Hospitality Minnesota President and CEO Angie Whitcomb says many of their businesses run on razor-thin margins.
"And this funding really is a lifeline for our industry," says Hospitality Minnesota President and CEO Angie Whitcomb. "Any disruption to their business, especially a disruption that's months long, can be a blow that they may not recover from.
Minnesota is experiencing the warmest winter season on record with virtually no snow across much of the state.
"A lack of snow impacted bookings, which are down 30% or more," says Whitcomb. "But then when factor in all of the revenue from the winter activities that support these businesses, that revenue is at zero."
Whitcomb says it will be a long road for some, but she's optimistic the industry will bounce back this summer. She says they're also pushing for state assistance at the capitol this session.
Explore Minnesota is also looking for feedback from businesses impacted by the lack of winter. They're assisting with fact-finding for businesses, organizations and events in the industry.
You can find that survey here.