FAQs

  • These funds will be available for use from November 2024 until June 30, 2025. All activities and direct support must be completed by June 30, 2025. Individual programs within this initiative will have different start and end dates.

  • As required by the state legislation, all activities and businesses receiving support must be located on Lake Street between Nicollet Avenue S. and 30th Avenue S. All businesses within buildings located within this geographic area are eligible. Marketing efforts through this funding will attract visitors to the entire Lake Street corridor.

  • No, grants to businesses and nonprofits are not an eligible use of this funding per the State of Minnesota. Funds can be spent directly on several other items. Please see our Business Advising, Real Estate Consulting, and Arts and Places pages for specific information.

  • These funds will be used primarily for the following activities:

    • Direct funding for safety initiatives, potentially including expanding existing street outreach and creating a graffiti removal program.

    • Multiple advertising campaigns that will tell the story of Lake Street to attract customers and visitors.

    • Lake Street-wide initiatives to attract visitors. This includes sponsoring community events, commissioning murals by local muralists, and transforming empty lots through features like new lighting, art, and landscaping. 

    • Support eligible businesses and nonprofits with expanded business technical advising programs and consulting services for commercial real estate projects. 

  • Each program within this funding has a different process for participation. Please see our Business Advising, Real Estate Consulting, and Arts and Places pages for additional details.

  • No. All activities and direct support must be completed by June 30, 2025.

  • The State of Minnesota legislature appropriated these funds to “businesses located on Lake Street in Minneapolis, between 30th Avenue South and Nicollet Avenue.” While only businesses located in this geographic area are eligible for direct professional assistance, marketing efforts through this funding will attract visitors to the entire Lake Street corridor.