Haile Transportation: Driven By Purpose

When Ibrahim Haile looked around his Minnesota community, he saw something missing: safe, reliable transportation that families could depend on. That realization sparked the beginning of Haile Transportation LLC, a company built with a mission that goes beyond business. “I was inspired to start this business after seeing how much my community needed safe, reliable transportation, whether for medical appointments or school,” Haile recalls. “Non-emergency medical transportation helps people stay healthy, and school bus services ensure students get to school safely. For me, it’s more than just a business; it’s about serving families, supporting education, and creating opportunities for others.”

As a new entrepreneur, Haile understood the challenges of building a business from the ground up. When he learned about the PROMISE Act Grant through community business resources and word of mouth, he knew it could be an opportunity to strengthen his company. “I decided to apply because I knew the grant could help me grow my business and build a stronger foundation,” he says. “Financial support and recognition like this make a big difference in being able to serve more people.”

The road wasn’t easy. The COVID-19 pandemic brought unexpected challenges for small businesses, especially those in transportation. “Transportation slowed down, and many families and organizations were cautious about using services,” Haile explains. “One of the biggest challenges was balancing safety while still trying to serve people who depended on us.” To adapt, he focused on safety measures, kept strong communication with clients, and sought out new opportunities through contracts and partnerships.

When Haile learned that Haile Transportation had been selected for the PROMISE Act Grant, the moment was transformative. “I was very thankful and excited,” he shares. “Being selected felt like confirmation that the work I’m doing matters and has potential to grow. It gave me motivation and confidence to keep pushing forward with my vision.”

The grant has already made a significant impact on his business. “It’s helped me invest in my business in ways that weren’t possible before,” he says. “I’ve been able to cover some essential costs, improve operations, and focus more on building partnerships. It gave me breathing room to plan for the future instead of only worrying about day-to-day survival.”

Looking ahead, Haile is committed to expanding both his reach and his impact. “People can learn more by reaching out to me directly at hailetransportationllc@gmail.com or (612) 703-2129, or connecting through community business networks,” he says. “I’m also working on building a stronger online presence so more families, schools, and organizations can find us.”