Kraus-Anderson completes final renovation of Mayflower Building, a top technology hub for entrepreneurs, emerging tech businesses
BEMIDJI, Minn. (April 2017) – The Bemidji office of Kraus-Anderson (KA) has completed the third and final phase of renovations of the Mayflower Building, a business hub for emerging entrepreneurs, and upstart tech and engineering businesses. The Mayflower first opened in May of 2015 following $1.6 million of initial renovations to the building. Featuring cutting-edge technology, the Mayflower has attracted developing tech companies, making the center an economic driver for Bemidji and the region.
The Mayflower was originally built at the turn of the 20th century as a grocery warehouse for Nash Finch Company and later used as a warehouse for the Mayflower Moving Company. In 1986, Kraus-Anderson Realty purchased the building, which was renovated and expanded, and repurposed for specialty retail and restaurants.
Greater Bemidji purchased the Mayflower from KA Realty in 2014. Following KA Construction’s renovation of the first and second levels, Greater Bemidji moved into the building in 2015 and was joined by TEAM Industries and EXB Solutions as primary tenants.
Over the years, KA has performed numerous tenant improvements at the Mayflower to accommodate various occupants, including a charter high school. The final phase of construction – completed last week — renovated the lower level for tenant use.
“The Mayflower Building provides a great ‘front door’ for the greater Bemidji region,” said Dave Hengel, economic development director for Greater Bemidji. “With its mix of historic and cutting-edge technology, the building has become a go-to place for new and emerging entrepreneurs in northern Minnesota.”
The centerpiece of the Mayflower is LaunchPad, a high-tech co-working space, offering collaboration and networking for entrepreneurs. The Mayflower’s other partners include Bemidji State University’s internship program, and marketing assistance and research solutions program.
Located near downtown Bemidji, the Mayflower is part of the Minnesota Innovation Institute (MI2), which focusses on employee recruitment, placement and retention in work areas requiring skills training.
KA Realty’s Linda Autrey serves as the Mayflower’s property manager. KA also continues to own the Markham Building and parking lot of Union Square. The other buildings have been sold. KA also manages Bemidji Commons, another commercial property in Bemidji