Local businesses in the historic West 7th corridor now have an exciting opportunity to refresh their storefronts and enhance the neighborhood's economic vitality, thanks to the launch of the Revitalize West 7th grant program. Organized by the West 7th/Fort Road Federation, this initiative offers up to $10,000 in funding to eligible businesses and property owners to improve the visual appeal of their commercial buildings.
West 7th is deeply rooted in history, with a mix of long-standing businesses and new entrepreneurial ventures. The grant program aims to build upon this legacy by making facade improvements more accessible to business owners who may otherwise face financial barriers to such upgrades.
"West 7th is the oldest commercial corridor in the state of Minnesota. Our small businesses are the backbone of West 7th and part of what makes it truly special," said Julia McColley, Executive Director of the West 7th/Fort Road Federation. "Investing in our community, specifically in those who may face barriers to traditional loans, is key to maintaining the vibrancy of West 7th."
A Vision for Growth and Sustainability
The Revitalize West 7th initiative is designed to do more than simply improve aesthetics. It seeks to drive business growth and create a more inviting environment for both visitors and residents. The program encourages private investment in visual enhancements for commercial properties, supporting business expansion and neighborhood development. By enriching West 7th as a destination for shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment, it fosters a sense of community and economic prosperity.
Additionally, the initiative addresses barriers to traditional financing for business improvement projects and promotes sustainable practices through energy-efficient building upgrades, including electrical systems, appliances, and HVAC solutions. In addition to benefiting individual business owners, the initiative aligns with broader community goals, such as revitalizing vacant spaces and creating local jobs.
Application Details
Businesses and property owners within District 9 are encouraged to apply before the February 28th deadline at 5:00 p.m. Full eligibility requirements and application details can be found on the West 7th/Fort Road Federation website at https://fortroadfed.org/revitalize-west-7th.
Funded by the Neighborhood STAR Program, Revitalize West 7th represents a concerted effort to preserve the character of the district while ensuring its continued economic and cultural vibrancy.