The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation (the Foundation) today announced that, in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), it is now taking applications for the East Metro Main Street Economic Revitalization Program to fund economic development and redevelopment projects along commercial corridors in St. Paul. The Foundation’s website provides detailed information on eligibility and application guidelines. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until May 2023 or until all grant funds are spent, whichever comes first.
The Foundation will distribute up to $7 million to businesses and nonprofit organizations in the Snelling-University Rice Cultural District, the East Side community and along West Seventh Street. Funding is earmarked for economic recovery projects led by nonprofits and business responding to pandemic impacts, major closures or vacancies and property damage due to the recent unrest.
“The vitality of our East Metro community is important to the overall well-being of the Twin Cities and state of Minnesota,” said Eric J. Jolly, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Foundation. “We appreciate the members of the community and our partners who have helped design this program and will provide technical assistance to applicants. These grants are an investment in community vitality – and, more importantly, in the healing of St. Paul’s business corridors, the livelihood and dreams of its residents, and in a more vibrant future for its businesses and nonprofits.”
Businesses and nonprofits that have experienced hardships and economic challenges since March 15, 2020, due to COVID-19, civil unrest due to the murder of George Floyd, and other challenges, are eligible to apply for grants of up to $750,000. Applicants must secure matching funds to be eligible for grants. In support of these efforts, the Foundation will help to raise matching funds to augment those from other funding sources.
Funding priority will be given to projects led by and serving Black, Indigenous, Asian, Latino, new Americans, immigrants, refugees, people with disabilities, LGBTQI communities, veterans, and low-income communities. Eligible projects include the development, redevelopment, demolition, site preparation, predesign, design engineering, repair or renovation of property or capital improvements. Activities may include but are not limited to construction, infrastructure and related site amenities, landscaping or street-scaping.
“Minnesota’s main streets are key drivers of growth in our state’s economy,” said DEED Commissioner Steve Grove. “Many businesses that are important to these corridors have suffered over the past two-and-a-half years, particularly those impacted by racial inequities. Distribution of Main Street Economic Revitalization Grants in the East Metro will support small businesses, encourage job growth, inspire investment and contribute to a stronger community – all building blocks for a brighter and more equitable future.”
- To learn more about the East Metro Main Street grant program, visit spmcf.org/EastMetroMainStreet
- To find out more about the Minnesota Main Street Economic Revitalization Program, visit https://mn.gov/deed/business/financing-business/deed-programs/emergency-programs/economic-revitalization/
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About the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation
The Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation believes in the best of Minnesota and the power of its communities. With roots in Saint Paul and partners across the state, it is Minnesota’s largest community foundation and the partner of choice for thousands of donors, nonprofits and community organizations. The Foundation aspires to create an equitable, just and vibrant Minnesota where all communities and people thrive by inspiring generosity, advocating for equity, and investing in community-led solutions. Visit: spmcf.org
About DEED
DEED is the state’s principal economic development agency, promoting business recruitment, expansion and retention, workforce development, international trade and community development. For more details about the agency and its services, visit the DEED website, the JoinUsMn.com website, or follow us on Twitter.