The City of Saint Paul, Minnesota, has opened applications for its 2025 STAR (Sales Tax Revitalization) grant programs: the Neighborhood STAR and Cultural STAR initiatives. These programs are designed to promote community and economic development within the city by supporting capital improvements and cultural enrichment efforts. Both programs accept online applications through Friday, May 2, 2025, at 4:00 p.m. Central Time.

The Neighborhood STAR program provides funding for capital projects located within Saint Paul neighborhoods. Eligible applicants must either be located in or conduct business in the city and propose a project that includes a capital improvement expected to last at least seven years. Additionally, proposed projects must enhance the prosperity, cultural diversity, or vitality of the neighborhood in which they are located. Full program guidelines, including eligibility, requirements, and evaluation criteria, are available in English, Spanish, Hmong/Hmoob, Somali, and Karen. A virtual pre-proposal workshop will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. to assist interested applicants.

The Cultural STAR program aims to strengthen the arts and cultural sectors while promoting downtown Saint Paul as a vibrant cultural hub. Grants may be awarded for special projects, organizational development, or capital improvements. Projects under special projects and organizational development must occur between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026. Capital projects must be completed between August 1, 2025, and July 31, 2027. A virtual information session for prospective applicants will be held on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

For help with the Neighborhood STAR program, applicants can contact program staff at PED-NeighborhoodStar@stpaul.gov. Those applying to the Cultural STAR program should reach out to PED-CulturalStar@stpaul.gov. Additional support is available through the City’s Call Center at 651-266-8989 during business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on weekdays.