Now Accepting Applications
The Creative Enterprise Zone (CEZ), in partnership with the City of Saint Paul, is now accepting applications to the 2021 CEZ Neighborhood STAR Program.
Applications can be submitted now through February 12, 2021.
The purpose of this program is to provide grants and loans for capital improvements to small businesses, nonprofits, and/or commercial properties located in the Creative Enterprise Zone (CEZ).
Program grants and loans can be used for exterior or interior capital improvements including:
- Exterior building improvements (examples: more energy efficient windows, signage, murals, art, tuck-pointing, paint, architectural lighting, pedestrian lighting, awnings, graffiti-proofing, landscaping)
- Improvements related to COVID-19 (improvements must be permanent. Examples: new patio, upgrade to HVAC, take-out window, permanently affixed equipment)
- Interior improvements (display windows, lighting, flooring, build-outs)
Available Funding
Grants: Up to $10,000 per project ($60,000 in funds available. Match required.)
Loans: Minimum of $10,000 and maximum of $50,000 per project ($100,000 in funds available at 2 percent, and up to 15-year amortization. Match required).
Application Deadline
The application deadline for this first round of funding is Friday, February 12, 2021 by 3:00 pm CST.
Applications will be accepted online via this Google form.
To find the full program guidelines, and to download a project budget template and Statement of Understanding form, visit the CEZ website here or at creativeenterprisezone.org/real-estate.
Wondering if your business is located in the CEZ?
Check out the CEZ's map here. NOTE the special east-side extension to Fairview Avenue, as outlined in the CEZ Neighborhood Star Program application guidelines.
Program Goals and Objectives
All CEZ grants or loans should align with one or more of these program goals and objectives:
- Builds resilience of the creative sector and creative businesses.
- Increases neighborhood vibrancy, walkability, and profile as a branded destination.
- Leverages private investment to improve the physical appearance of commercial properties.
- Provides access to capital funds for creative businesses.
- Increases energy efficiency/green building practices.
- Creates or retains jobs for local residents.
- Makes permanent improvements to help businesses operate during COVID-19 pandemic.
Have questions? Or would like to discuss your specific project? Contact Angela Casselton at director@creativeenterprisezone.org or reach out by phone at 612.205.7915. We are happy to assist!
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