SSTO Pilot ProgramBuilding pathways to financial stability, wealth building, and homeownership readiness. SSTO's Two‑Tier Program Model: Tier I: Education — We partner with short‑term training programs and workforce resources that prepare clients for stable employment. Our goal is to ensure that each client’s income after training meets the financial requirements needed to begin the path toward homeownership. Tier II: Financial Stability — We work with Homeownership Readiness Advisor who support clients in repairing credit, managing debt, building savings, strengthening budgeting habits, and creating long‑term financial plans. Counselors also help clients establish responsible banking relationships and improve overall money‑management skills. Clients who remain actively engaged, meet program expectations, and demonstrate consistent progress may qualify to earn a monthly stipend. This support helps cover essential expenses while reinforcing accountability, savings habits, and stability during their journey toward self‑sufficiency.
Financial Education Network
Our financial education program covers budgeting, credit building, debt reduction, and savings strategies — everything you need to become mortgage-ready.
Designed for individuals seeking to improve financial literacy, build credit, and prepare for future homeownership opportunities.
- Financial education curriculum
- Credit repair strategies
- Debt reduction planning
- Savings goal setting
Homebuyer Counseling
One-on-one sessions with a housing counselor to create a personalized homeownership action plan and identify assistance programs you qualify for.
This program supports first-time homebuyers and households seeking personalized guidance through the homeownership process.
- Housing counselors
- Personalized action plan
- Mortgage readiness review
- Lender referral network
Down Payment Assistance
We connect qualifying families with down payment assistance grants and loan programs available in Minnesota, guiding you through the application process from start to finish.
We assist eligible homebuyers in identifying and applying for available Minnesota assistance programs.
- State and local grant access
- Application guidance
- Income-based eligibility review
- Combined with homebuyer education
High-Demand Short-Term Training Programs
Through our educational partners, participants may have access to short-term training programs that can lead to careers with earning potential up to $75,000 or more per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
Career Pathways & Workforce Development
SSTO partners with educational and scholarship programs that provide short-term, career-focused training opportunities. Participants can gain valuable skills and industry-recognized credentials that lead to high-demand careers — building the income stability needed to support long-term financial health and affordable homeownership.
Note: Employment outcomes and earnings vary by program, industry, employer, and geographic location.
Client Preparation Requirement
Final Pre-Submission Requirement
To ensure your future home remains affordable, SSTO requires all clients to be prepared for career-aligned training. This training strengthens income stability, supports long-term financial health, and ensures you can maintain homeownership without financial strain.
SSTO is empowering Minnesota families through career-aligned training and financial readiness. Clients in our training program receive a monthly stipend to support success.
Our Two‑Tier Program Model
Tier I
Education & Financial Foundations
Participants begin with structured financial education focused on budgeting, credit building, debt management, and long‑term planning. This tier equips families with the knowledge and tools needed to create a strong financial foundation.
Tier II
Financial Stability Track
Clients who remain actively engaged, meet program expectations, and demonstrate consistent progress may qualify to earn a monthly stipend. This support helps cover essential expenses while reinforcing accountability, savings habits, and stability during their journey toward self‑sufficiency.