Small business owners in Saint Paul have an array of opportunities on the horizon. Applications for the Neighborhood STAR grant, which provides funds for capital improvements, are set to open on March 31. This grant program has been a key factor in revitalizing neighborhood businesses and is historically capped at $50,000 per award. Business entities must be located in, or conducting business within Saint Paul to be considered eligible, as per the grant guidelines mentioned in the Small Business Newsletter.
Capital improvements eligible for funding must have an expected lifespan of seven or more years, according to the bulletin published by the City of Saint Paul. The 2025 application can be found on the city’s website starting the end of March, and all submissions must be done through ZoomGrants by May 2. The STAR program's success stories include Amy Ennen Bertomeu and Alberto Bertomeu, of North End Car Wash, who said, "The Neighborhood STAR program provides business owners and local organizations the funds to make better spaces."
Another business-focused initiative is the LOCAL Fund for Worker Ownership partnering with Nexus Community Partners. Workers cooperatives, where employees govern and own the business, are being touted for enhancing job stability, retention and democratizing the workplace. This collaborative effort seeks to keep profits circulating locally, thereby strengthening Saint Paul's economic resilience.
Saint Paul also offers support beyond funding grants, such as Small Business Majority's webinar, which aims to streamline tax preparation for the self-employed. This is slated to run on March 19, guiding local business owners through the complexities of taxation and offering strategies to enhance tax savings. Employers can also get help in providing accommodations for employees with disabilities, with reimbursement opportunities of up to $30,000 as part of the Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund, ERAF, detailed in the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s recent virtual info session on March 19.
As streets and public spaces thaw out in the spring, the city is encouraging applications for parklet and sidewalk café permits. Ideal for eateries looking to expand their service areas outdoors, application details and support are available through the City website. Business owners interested can reach out to [email protected] for further guidance.
For resources, training, and events that help foster small business growth, the upcoming months are rich with opportunities. From webinars on search engine optimization to the all-day ConnectUP! Summit in April, Saint Paul is offering avenues for entrepreneurs to refine their skills, network, and capitalize on the strong community fabric that underlines the city's commercial landscape. The full lineup of opportunities and events is thoughtfully outlined in the latest newsletter issued for the small business community.
