
The Neighborhood STAR Grant: Fueling Local Business Growth in St. Paul
St. Paul is gearing up to open applications for its highly anticipated 2025 Neighborhood STAR grant program on Monday, March 31. Designed to bolster local communities, this initiative supports capital improvement projects aimed at enhancing the cultural diversity, vitality, and economic prosperity of neighborhoods throughout the city.
Empowering Businesses with Critical Funding
Local businesses and organizations within St. Paul are eligible to apply, provided they utilize the funds for permanent capital improvements with a lifespan of at least seven years. The program typically awards grants of $50,000 or less, allowing for meaningful enhancements that can transform public spaces and drive neighborhood development.
Community Engagement: Workshops and Support
To assist potential applicants, a virtual Neighborhood STAR Workshop will take place on Tuesday, April 8, from 1 to 2 p.m. This workshop offers a valuable opportunity for local entrepreneurs to gather essential program information, receive application guidance, and ask questions directly to city officials. Those interested should visit the Neighborhood STAR website for log-in details.
Success Stories Showcase Program Impact
Since its establishment in 1995, the Neighborhood STAR program has invested in over 1,200 projects across St. Paul. Success stories from past awardees illustrate the program's profound impact. Gloria Contreras Edin, owner of Tiger Investments, recognized the importance of local partnership: “I am incredibly excited and grateful the City of Saint Paul is partnering with me on my project to bring love to Charles Avenue and Rice Street.” Examples like this highlight the collaborative effort between city leadership and local businesses to revitalize neighborhoods.
Next Steps: Your Chance to Apply
With applications due by 4 p.m. on Friday, May 2, local business owners have a limited window to submit their proposals. It’s vital that all applications are complete and include the necessary attachments to be considered. For more detailed information on the application process, guidelines, and to stay informed about upcoming updates, prospective applicants are encouraged to sign up for the program’s email list.
In an era where neighborhood identity and health play crucial roles in overall community success, the Neighborhood STAR grant program stands as a beacon for small businesses. By harnessing these resources, entrepreneurs in St. Paul can lead the charge in creating spaces that not only serve them but enrich their entire community.
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