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 Go green and save money this Earth Month (and every day!)
The City of Saint Paul has a long history of environmental stewardship and fostering a prosperous, healthy, and livable city that works for all.
This month, check out the wide range of resources to help your business go green — including energy efficiency programs, free assessments, grants, and more! Whether you’re a restaurant, salon, retail business, or office, the smallest change can make a big difference for your business and our community.
Reduce waste and improve recycling and organics with BizRecycling
BizRecycling helps Ramsey County businesses start organics collections and supports waste reduction and recycling efforts through consultation, grants, and resources.
Five different grants are available to help your business reduce, reuse, and recycle better. Apply for Waste Reduction & Innovation Grant by Friday, June 14 and the Food Recovery Grant by Friday, July 19. Applications for the Bin-Only Grant, Recycling Grant, and Organics Reward are accepted anytime.
Businesses can also get up to $5,000 in trash and recycling labels for free, and they are available in English, Somali, Hmong, Spanish, and Oromo.
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Free energy consulting and rebates for small businesses
The One-Stop Efficiency Shop, sponsored by Xcel Energy, is a free energy efficiency consulting and rebate program designed to help small businesses save energy and reduce operating costs through practical lighting, HVAC, and refrigeration upgrades. The program includes:
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Free energy assessments
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Rebates covering up to 75% of project costs
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Free ecobee3 lite smart thermostats and free installation
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Project support including help finding contractors and reviewing bids
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Access to low-interest financing
- Assistance completing and submitting rebate paperwork
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Power up with electric vehicles and workplace charging
The nationwide EMPOWER Workplace Charging Project will provide free advisory services for those businesses looking to install workplace charging stations.
If you install qualified electric vehicle chargers at your business, you may be eligible for the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Tax Credit.
Sign up for carshare! Evie is an all-electric, one-way, free-floating carshare service with over 170 vehicles in the Twin Cities. An Evie business account is a great way to group multiple people under the same payment structure.
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Join the Citywide Spring Cleanup on April 20
Celebrate Earth Day at the 38th annual Citywide Spring Cleanup on Saturday, April 20! Join forces with other community members to clean up the litter in your neighborhood. The Citywide Spring Cleanup is hosted by Saint Paul Parks & Recreation, Saint Paul Public Works, and other local organizations. This is a rain or shine event.
Interested in adopting your block? Check out the City's Come Clean program.You supply the time, energy, and enthusiasm and we will supply the trash bags, gloves, and many thanks. Businesses who Adopt-a-Block can request a window cling or lawn sign in recognition of their efforts.
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Additional resources to support your sustainability goals
Check out more resources to help your business reduce waste and save money:
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Get a free site visit from a Waste Wise sustainability specialist to identify new ways to recycle, maximize reuse, and explore new waste reduction options. They can also review your waste bills and help you right-size services to make them as efficient and affordable as possible.
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The goal of the Business Energy Efficiency Grant Program is to motivate business owners to complete commercial energy efficiency upgrades/projects that would otherwise not have been completed without this aid. Businesses served by Xcel Energy or CenterPoint Energy are eligible to apply.
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MNimize is a campaign to recognize and support food service businesses as they take action to reduce single-use plastic. The MNimize team will come visit your business to help identify the actions that best suit your needs and interest, and will offer ongoing implementation support.
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The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is accepting applications for their Small Business Environmental Improvement Loan.These 0% interest loans are available to assist small businesses improve their business practices to meet or exceed environmental regulations.
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 Neighborhood STAR application now open
The grant application for the City of Saint Paul’s 2024 Neighborhood STAR program is now open! Online applications are due Wednesday, May 15 at 4 p.m.
The Neighborhood STAR program funds capital projects in Saint Paul neighborhoods. To be eligible for a STAR grant, an applicant must:
- Be located in or do business in Saint Paul
- Make a capital improvement with an expected life of 7+ years
- Have a project that contributes to the prosperity, cultural diversity, and vitality of Saint Paul neighborhoods
Details on eligibility, application requirements, and the evaluation and selection process are available in the program guidelines. The guidelines are available in English, Spanish, Hmong/Hmoob, Somali, and Karen.
Learn more about MN PROMISE Act funding
The MN PROMISE Act is a new, state-funded program that will provide loans and grants to disadvantaged small businesses located in certain areas of Minneapolis and Saint Paul.
Eligible Saint Paul businesses, nonprofit organizations, and developers can apply now for the loan program, which must be used for capital improvements, such as buying a building or a business renovation or expansion.
The application for the PROMISE Act Grants will open later this spring. Grant funds can be used for working capital to support payroll expenses, rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, equipment, and other similar expenses that occur in the regular course of business.
There are multiple upcoming virtual information sessions to learn more about who is eligible, the application process, and what you need to know to apply:
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Introducing the LOCAL Fund
The LOCAL Fund, a new grant opportunity for worker and real estate investment cooperatives, is a partnership between the Shared Ownership Center at Nexus Community Partners and the City of Saint Paul's Office of Financial Empowerment. The LOCAL Fund leverages $2.5 million to build community wealth, anchor jobs locally, grow the local economy and tax base, and center an ownership culture that uplifts residents of Saint Paul now and for generations to come.
The LOCAL Fund: Worker Ownership offers grants and technical assistance for worker co-op startups, conversions of existing businesses, and existing co-ops. The LOCAL Fund: Community Ownership supports shared-ownership entities with grants and technical assistance for predevelopment, acquisition, demolition, and rehabilitation of commercial properties.
Schedule a consultation to learn how to apply.
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Grow your small business through the CEO Now program
The CEO Now program offers growth-minded, small business owners an opportunity for peer learning, an expanded professional network, a three-year strategic road map, and the confidence to take their next steps forward. Eligible businesses can join this cohort at no cost, thanks to ongoing investments in the business community from Ramsey and Hennepin County. Applications are open until Thursday, April 25.
Get free business counseling through Open to Business program
The Open to Business program provides direct technical assistance and other forms of support to small business owners and entrepreneurs at no cost. All current business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs intending to establish, purchase or improve a business in Saint Paul are eligible and encouraged to participate.
No-cost, confidential business counseling is available monthly to current and prospective entrepreneurs. Grab your spot for an upcoming session from 1 - 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 2 at the Rondo Community Library or Tuesday, May 7 at the Highland Park Library.
Apply for the 2024 SBA T.H.R.I.V.E Emerging Leaders cohort
Take your business to the next level with T.H.R.I.V.E.! This no-cost, executive-level training series from the Small Business Administration (SBA) helps entrepreneurs accelerate the growth of their businesses through targeted training led by motivated leaders in small business development. The SBA Minnesota District Office is now recruiting for their 2024 cohort in the Twin Cities. Apply online by Sunday, April 28.
ESNDC announces East Side Technical Assistance Program
Big news from East Side Neighborhood Development Company (ESNDC)! Their new East Side Technical Assistance Program provides in-depth one-on-one and group technical assistance to East Side entrepreneurs to enable them to access the capital to launch, grow, or stabilize their business. Email Anne DeJoy or Matt Anderson to learn more.
Restaurant owners! Apply for the 2024 DoorDash Accelerator program
Market Entry Fund grant cycle closes May 2
The Micro Grants program from The Market Entry Fund supports small-scale producers and manufacturers of packaged food and beverage in Minnesota. These grants can bolster the financial capability of emerging packaged food businesses that are owned by entrepreneurs of color, women, veterans, and other individuals demonstrating systemic barriers to equitable opportunities in this sector. Apply by Thursday, May 2.
Registration open for National Small Business Week Virtual Summit
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and SCORE Mentors announced that registration for the 2024 National Small Business Week Virtual Summit is now open. The two-day online event will take place on Tuesday, April 30 and Wednesday, May 1. Attendance is free of charge, but registration is required. Register now.
Apply for a Dual Training Grant through April 22
Dual-training programs through Minnesota Dual-Training Pipeline provide structured on-the-job training and related instruction to help employees succeed in their chosen career and help employers meet their workforce needs. Learn more and apply for the Dual Training Grant by Monday, April 22.
Connect with small business support from the City of Saint Paul
The City of Saint Paul can connect you to a variety of programs and referrals to support small businesses. If you would like business resource support from our team, the first step is to submit an Intake Form. Reach out today to learn more about what programs can help you reach your business goals!
Share your thoughts with Visit Saint Paul
Visit Saint Paul is gathering input from local business owners as a part of their strategic planning process. Please complete this short survey by Monday, April 15 and share your thoughts about Visit Saint Paul's work with businesses, meetings, and conventions to create a positive economic impact for the capital city.
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Upcoming events
Friday, April 26
8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
InterContinental Saint Paul Riverfront
This event, hosted by the St. Paul Area Chamber, the Minnesota Black Chamber, and the Minnesota Hmong Chamber, aims to celebrate, educate, connect and showcase local small businesses. City of Saint Paul staff from Planning and Economic Development (PED), Human Rights and Equal Economic Opportunity (HREEO), and the Office of Financial Empowerment (OFE) will have a table at the expo to share resources and answer questions.
Tuesday, April 16
9 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Repowered Saint Paul
Employers, join Ramsey County for a scenario-based simulation to help gain a fuller understanding of specific obstacles justice-impacted people face and how we can work together to provide a fair chance for employment. Register today.
Tuesday, April 16
12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Virtual event
This info session from BizRecycling will include an overview of the Waste Reduction and Innovation Grant guidelines and eligibility requirements, types of projects funded, and an opportunity for questions and answers. Sign up by Friday, April 12. Can't make it? The recording will be uploaded to the program website.
Wednesday, April 17
8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Goodwill-Easter Seals Minnesota
This session will kick off the St. Paul Area Chamber's 2024 Equity Leadership Series, and will dive into key concepts and practices of skills-based hiring, specifically during the interview process. Allen Mavis of Goodwill-Easter Seals will present an engaging workshop that introduces the key concepts of Skills-Based Hiring, and will invite attendees to put the idea into practice. Cost is $50 for chamber members or $60 for non-members.
Wednesday, April 17
2 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Virtual event
Through the Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Employer Reasonable Accommodation Fund (ERAF), small to mid-sized Minnesota businesses can request reimbursements for up to $30,000 in expenses related to providing reasonable accommodations for job applicants and employees with disabilities. Come and learn how your business can take advantage of this program.
Wednesday, April 17
6 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Virtual event
If you have ever thought about the possible transformative impact of owning a coop, this information session is for you! Join staff from the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD) to learn more about shared ownership models as well as technical assistance and financing opportunities. An additional virtual info session will also be held on Saturday, April 27 at 10 a.m.
Thursday, April 18
4 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Abrazar
Join the St. Paul Chamber for their monthly Chamber Connect networking series. These events are low-key networking events aimed at building and strengthening connections. Mix, mingle, and make meaningful connections at the new Abrazar event center and delicious appetizers from Sawatdee. Cost is $10 for non-Chamber members.
This FREE workshop is designed to equip early-stage entrepreneurs, startup founders, and small business owners with essential financial skills and knowledge to build a solid foundation for success. From understanding your financial landscape to exploring funding options and financial forecasting, this session will help you navigate the financial aspects of your business. Secure your spot now! Limited seats available.
Wednesday, April 24
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Virtual event
Join representatives from Apprenticeship Minnesota at the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) to learn about the registered apprenticeship program and ask your questions about the earn-and-learn model and how it can help grow and sustain an innovative workforce. There is no cost to attend. Register now.
Wednesday, May 1
11 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Virtual event
Thinking of starting a business? Wondering what is involved? Learn the important steps to turn your passion into a business venture. In this free session from the Small Business Administration (SBA), you will learn the step-by-step process to make your business legal in the state of Minnesota. Get the tools you’ll need in just one hour.
Attend and meet organizations whose missions include recycling, creating green space, environmental clean-up, and more! Learn about and apply for green collar careers in emerging industries, as well as conventional businesses and trades who have shifted to more sustainable practices. Green resources and activities happening in the community will be highlighted as well.
Wednesday, May 8
8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saint Paul RiverCentre
Join the MnTech community for a day of learning, networking, and inspiration highlighting the people and companies fueling Minnesota’s innovation economy. Explore the agenda to learn more about the speakers and sessions. Full Stack Saint Paul is a proud sponsor of Tech Connect, as well as the Tech on Tap networking event on Thursday, May 9.
Thursday, May 9
8 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Maplewood YMCA Community Center
Small businesses are invited to attend and have deliberate, worthwhile conversations with Ramsey County staff who are directly involved in construction projects. Businesses who are CERT Certified, have the potential of being certified, and/or have other certifications related to small business with other government entities are encouraged to attend.
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Construction season has begun
Several projects have begun throughout Saint Paul. Public Works, Metro Transit, Saint Paul Regional Water Services, and utility companies are all working throughout the city. Some of the larger Public Works projects in downtown include: Kellogg Boulevard Capital City Bikeway – Phase 1, Minnesota Street Reconstruction Phase 2, and Kellogg/3rd Street Bridge.
A great resource to use to plan your travel is the city’s Road Closure Map (and list) at stpaul.gov/roadclosures.
Stay up to date with Public Works construction by signing up for project specific alerts at stpaul.gov/construction.
New 1% "Common Cent" sales tax now in effect
 Beginning April 1, 2024, the City of Saint Paul will implement the 1% increase to the local sales and use tax.
In 2023, Saint Paul voters approved a 1% increase to the local option sales tax to be used for repairs and improvements to streets, bridges, parks, and recreational facilities within the city. The "Common Cent" tax will generate nearly $1 billion over 20 years, of which $738 million is earmarked for streets and $246 million for parks.
To remain consistent with the state, the sales tax will not include food, clothing, and other essential items.
For more information or to learn about the projects funded with the new sales tax, visit the city's Sales and Use Tax page.
Saint Paul introduces new copper metal legislation at State Capitol
Authored by Sen. Pappas and Rep. Hollins, the City of Saint Paul has proposed new legislation that would require any person who is selling copper metal to have a license issued by the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Residents and businesses can still recycle copper materials with scrap metal companies for free.
What can you do as a small business?
- If you see something, say something. Call 911 to report suspicious behavior or activity.
- Join Camera Watch. Register your business security camera and coverage information with the Saint Paul Police Department.
- Contact your legislators to thank them for supporting the proposed copper metal legislation. Find your legislator here.
To learn more about wire theft and view the full list of FAQs, visit stpaul.gov/streetlights.
Apply for the Saint Paul Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) Preservation Fund
Are you a current or aspiring property owner interested in acquiring an unsubsidized multifamily rental building in Saint Paul with at least three units? Could a 0% interest deferred loan on top of your first mortgage help you with the purchase? If yes, you should apply today for the Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) Preservation Fund!
Check out the program guidelines to learn about the preservation priorities and financial feasibility considerations. All applications due by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, April 29, 2024.
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