St. Cloud and Foley Included in New Round of Main Street Revitalization Grants

(KNSI) – Retailers in Foley and St. Cloud have a chance to get help in their efforts to breathe new life into their communities.

The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development has earmarked more funds for the popular Main Street Economic Revitalization Grant program. It provides matching grants up to 70% that reduce the overall cost for projects that lead to business growth, better infrastructure, and other long-term benefits.

The Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation will vet the grants locally. CEO NeTia Bauman says, “This funding provides a unique opportunity for businesses and property owners to invest in their communities, create jobs, and enhance the appeal of our downtown districts.”

Applications are being accepted for both Foley and St. Cloud. The Foley round will close first, on May 23rd. Foley is looking to fund one to two projects with a maximum award of $37,600.

St. Cloud businesses have until mid-June to apply. The hope is to approve three to five projects worth as much as $199,000. Economic Development Director Cathy Mehelich says, “Results from the first round were hugely successful in leveraging over $11-million in private investment, nearly $2-million in tax base generated, in addition to job creation in downtown St. Cloud.”

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