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2026 STAR Grant Applications Open February 2!
We are excited to announce that 2026 grant applications for the City of Saint Paul’s Neighborhood STAR and Cultural STAR programs will open on February 2.
These programs support projects that help beautify and promote arts and culture in our city. Specifically, the Neighborhood STAR grants fund capital projects in Saint Paul neighborhoods. The Cultural STAR grants support arts and cultural organizations and events in Saint Paul.
Online applications for both programs will be due on Friday, March 13, at 4 p.m. Visit the Neighborhood STAR and Cultural STAR webpages for more information on the programs, including this year’s guidelines and information on applicant workshops.
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City News and Updates
 The City of Saint Paul will be hosting its annual Supplier Fair. This is an opportunity for prospective vendors to learn about the City of Saint Paul’s upcoming contracting opportunities, attend workshops, and network with subject-matter experts from various departments within the City.
WHO: All Prospective Vendors
WHEN: January 15
TIME: 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
WHERE: Saint Paul Public Library - Highland Park (1974 Ford Pkwy, Saint Paul, MN 55116)
To attend, please register by January 13 at 11:59 p.m. by visiting City of Saint Paul 2026 Supplier Fair Tickets.
For questions or concerns, please contact the Procurement division via email at: procurement@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
Saint Paul Stands with Our Immigrant Neighbors
We're a stronger city when everyone feels safe. Know your rights.
More information: stpaul.gov/immigration-resources
Call 211 or text your zip code to 898-211.
The National Immigration Law Center offers a Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace (employer guides available as download in multiple languages).
City of Saint Paul Minimum Wage Increases
In accordance with the City’s Minimum Wage Ordinance, Chapter 224, the minimum wage hourly rate for all Saint Paul businesses with 101 or more employees increased to $16.37/hour effective January 1, 2026.
The remaining minimum wage rates for businesses with fewer employees will stay the same until July 1, 2026. At that time, the minimum wage rate for Small Businesses, those with 6-100 employees, will increase to $16.37/hour. Micro Businesses, employers with 5 or less employees, will increase to $14.25/hour.
Please see the chart below for updated rates:
 Saint Paul employers must count all employees, whether full-time or part-time, hired jointly with another employer, or temporary, including employees working remotely.
For more information or to file a complaint about Minimum Wage, Earned Sick and Safe Time, and/or Wage Theft, please visit stpaul.gov/laborstandards, call 651-266-8966, or email LaborStandards@ci.stpaul.mn.us.
Host a Right Track Intern in 2026
Looking for fresh ideas and energy to move your business forward? Consider hosting an intern through the city of Saint Paul’s Right Track program and help cultivate the workforce of tomorrow. Since 2014, Right Track has connected talented, diverse youth with hundreds of local businesses through paid internships and professional development opportunities. Why participate?
- Access motivated young talent with unique perspectives.
- Build your future workforce while making a positive impact in the community.
- Right Track covers wages and provides training support.
Be part of this transformative program and help shape our next generation of leaders.
Learn more and apply to host a Right Track intern. The deadline for applications for career-focused internships for ages 16-21 are due February 28.
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Stay Informed of Snow Emergencies
Sign up for the City of Saint Paul's Snow Emergency text and email alerts at stpaul.gov/snow. (Available languages include English, Spanish, Somali, Hmong, and Oromo.). Follow updates on social media or call 651-266-PLOW (651-266-7569) for recorded status messages.
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DSI Call Center
From garbage to graffiti, the City of Saint Paul call center is here to help get code violations taken care of. Real, knowledgeable people are available weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to answer questions, log complaints, and get your problem one step closer to being solved. Give us a call at 651-266-8989.
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MN PROMISE Act Round 2 Grant Updates
Exciting news!
So far, 756 businesses have been awarded grants totaling $11.6 million. Of these, 230 Saint Paul businesses received a total of $4 million in funding. There is still $47.9 million available in Round 2 for eligible businesses.
👉 Apply now
👉 View info sessions
👉 Schedule an in‑person application lab
The PROMISE Act team now also offers virtual application labs every Thursday (excluding holidays) for those who cannot attend an in‑person session.
👉 Schedule a virtual application lab
Paid Leave Updates for Employers
Minnesota Paid Leave is a new state government program that started January 1, 2026. The program offers payments and job protections so people can take time off work to care for themselves or their loved ones during some of life’s most important moments.
Employers play a crucial role to inform and educate their employees and are encouraged to review information about Paid Leave requirements and employer responsibilities. This includes setting up your accounts, providing required notices to employees, and reviewing options for coordinating Paid Leave with existing workplace policies.
Resources for employers, including an employer toolkit, are available on their website: prepare now!
Learn more about notification requirements and download the posters and sample notices in multiple languages on their employer webpage.
Visit their website and sign up for their newsletter to get the latest news!
Have questions or need help? Their contact center is ready to assist. Call 651-556-7777 or send an email.
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Ramsey County Means Business
Ramsey County Means Business is a comprehensive hub for entrepreneurs and small business owners planning to expand or relocate to the county. Visitors can find information on available funding programs, redevelopment opportunities, market data and workforce resources, as well as tools to help identify potential sites and connect with local partners.
New entrepreneurs and existing small businesses can utilize Ramsey County’s Open to Business program operated in partnership with the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers (MCCD). The program provides direct technical assistance with developing a business plan, a business feasibility analysis, cash flow and financial projections, and other technical assistance resources. Open to Business is available to you and your business!
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Small Business, Big Future: ConnectUP! Accelerator Applications Open
Ready to take your business to the next level? ConnectUP! accelerator programs are designed to help entrepreneurs sharpen their strategy, understand their numbers, and scale with confidence.
✨ Lunar Startups Accelerator is a 12-week program for founders with traction who are thinking big about growth, innovation, and scale—created for Black, Indigenous, entrepreneurs of color, LGBTQ+, women, and non-binary founders.
💰 Capital Readiness Accelerator helps you get financially prepared and investor-ready by building confidence, clarity, and the tools funders expect.
If you have a product in-market and a vision for what’s next, this is your moment. Take your business to the next level. Learn more and apply here!
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Applications for the Spring 2026 Cohort are Now Open!
BETA can’t wait to welcome a new class of early-stage founders and fuel their journey with the resources, belief, and community they deserve. Their 12-week accelerator program (which starts in April) is free to join, yet deeply valuable for anyone with a bold idea and the courage to build it. If you or someone you know is quietly working on something powerful, apply for the Spring 2026 cohort here!
Plan It! 2026 Spring Cohort Applications Are Now Open!
Applications for NDC’s Plan It! Spring Cohort are now open. This program empowers entrepreneurs to map out their next steps, strengthen business skills, and learn from experts to build a solid business plan. Participants will leave this four-month journey with the business acumen to reach their goals. Applications close January 19! Click here to apply now, attend an Informational Session or for more information.
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Free HVAC Assessments
Don't let inefficient or outdated equipment drive up your utility bills this winter. Xcel Energy commercial customers are eligible for free HVAC consulting from CEE's One-Stop Efficiency Shop, sponsored by Xcel Energy. They can help you make a plan to upgrade your facility's HVAC system with rebates covering up to 60% of project costs or provide guidance on maintaining your current system.
Sign up for a free assessment with their HVAC team and get recommendations for your property at mncee.org/business.
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CORE Grant Funding for Capitol Area Business
Map of the Capitol Area in Saint Paul
The Saint Paul Port Authority is proud to partner with the State of Minnesota to administer the Capitol Outreach for Revitalization & Expansion (CORE) Grant Program.
In the 2025 legislative session, $870,000 was awarded to launch this program focused on revitalizing the Capitol Area by providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 to local businesses for capital improvement projects. New, existing or relocating for-profit business in the Capitol Area are encouraged to apply.
There will be two rounds of funding available. Round 1 opened January 5 and applications are due March 31. Full program details, eligibility requirements, application information, and contacts can be found here.
In addition, there will be a virtual information session on February 5 from 9-10 a.m. Click here to register and receive an invitation to join the meeting via phone or computer.
Apply Today for a Vehicle/Equipment Replacement Grant!
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) has $5 million in funding available to help owners of fossil fuel vehicles and equipment switch to new, cleaner equipment and vehicles. Businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and public entities, including state, local, and Tribal governments are eligible to apply. Applicants must be based in Minnesota or have a branch office in Minnesota. The vehicles must operate in Minnesota at least 75% of the time.
The grant aims to:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Improve air quality and public health
- Remove fossil fuel equipment and vehicles from operation and replace them with zero-emission technology
Applications are due March 27. Learn more and apply here!
Grant Funding to Purchase Bicycles for Delivery and Commercial Services
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is currently offering funding to help Minnesota businesses and organizations purchase bicycles and electric-assisted bicycles (e-bikes) for commercial use.
The transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gases in Minnesota – accounting for about a quarter of our state’s emissions. Most cars and transportation vehicles are powered by fossil fuels, resulting in air pollution that has an unequal negative impact on communities close to traffic corridors. Encouraging the use of bicycles for delivery and commercial services will contribute to improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and healthier communities.
Information to help applicants submit proposals and access the online application portal can be found on the e-bikes for business grant webpage. Applications are due no later than 4 p.m. on January 15 through the SWIFT Supplier Portal.
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Building Circularity MN: Training for Building Material Reuse
Want to turn used building materials into a business? Learn how in business training from Building Circularity, MN, a Hennepin County-led collaboration focused on circular reuse and waste reduction in construction and renovation projects.
Business owners and entrepreneurs passionate about reducing building waste can apply now through January 16. Through this six-month training cohort, participants will learn about the growing industry and develop a material reuse business idea with an industry expert.
The application is open through January 16 and up to 20 participants will be selected by February 16. Ready to apply? Fill out the application.
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Get FREE Expert Business Advice!
Whether you are just developing your business idea, or have been in business for years, SCORE mentors are here to help you. No question is too big or too small. Meet with a mentor via email, video, or phone. SCORE mentoring is free and confidential. Find your mentor.
Access Financial and Technical Support From the City of Saint Paul
The City of Saint Paul partners with business support organizations and groups throughout the Twin Cities. If you would like direct business support from our team, the first step is to submit an intake form. Get connected today to learn more about what programs and resources can help you reach your business goals!
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Upcoming events
Wednesday, January 14
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Virtual
Applications for the Plan It! and ¡Planéalo! (Spanish language version) Spring Cohort are now open. This program empowers current or aspiring entrepreneurs to gain crucial business know-how and learn from experts to build a business plan. Participants will leave this four-month journey with the knowledge and drive to reach their business goals. They offer informational sessions so you can learn more. Join one or apply to the program today!
Thursday, January 15
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Virtual
Many small business owners struggle with what to say on their websites or social media – not because they are bad at marketing, but because they are tired of guessing what their audience wants. In 2026, effective marketing relies on listening first. This SCORE webinar will show you a simple AI Listening Assistant that reveals what your customers are searching for, what they care about, and what content will actually get their attention. It is simple, efficient, and will help you connect with you audience faster than ever. Register here!
Thursday, January 15
12 – 1 p.m.
Virtual
Are you a business owner ready to demystify the business loan process? Join members of WomenVenture’s lending team to gain a clear understanding of how their lending program works. This session will guide you through the steps of their lending process, help you determine when you’re ready to apply, and provide tips on deciding the right loan amount for your needs. You’ll also learn about the services the organization offers to help you prepare for a loan. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to ask your questions directly to loan officers. Take the next step in funding your business with confidence! Learn more and register here!
Tuesday, January 20
12 – 1 p.m.
MCCD Office or Virtual
This lending session will provide information on MCCD’s loan products, including microloans, stage 2 business loans, shared ownership loans, and more. It will also include a clear breakdown of how to apply, a Q&A, and networking. This session is geared toward new and existing MCCD clients interested in applying for a loan, emerging entrepreneurs, small business owners, and those interested in shared ownership seeking funding or support to grow their businesses. Learn more and sign up here.
Tuesday, January 20
12 – 1:30 p.m.
Virtual
In this SCORE webinar, they’re going to evaluate your business’ current revenue streams and goals and then identify what changes we might want to incorporate to improve our revenue and spend our time most effectively this year. Register here!
Wednesday, January 21
7:15 – 9 a.m.
University of St. Thomas Anderson Student Center (James B. Woulfe Hall)
Join the St. Paul Area Chamber for a moderated discussion with St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey as they address their 2026 priorities, what challenges lie ahead for our cities, and how businesses can support and promote the Twin Cities region. This annual event will be hosted by the University of St. Thomas and is presented by Goff Public. It is always a sold-out event, and we encourage you to register early and join other civic-minded chamber members for a lively discussion, networking, and breakfast. Learn more and register here!
Thursday, January 22
7:30 – 9 a.m.
University of St. Thomas Anderson Student Center (James B. Woulfe Hall)
At their January Breakfast, executive coach and consultant Robin Mooney will guide participants through a practical and reflective look at what it means to show up at your best in moments of pressure, complexity, and competing demands. Drawing on her work with leaders and teams across industries, Robin will help family business members examine the habits, mindsets, language, and daily practices that strengthen how they show up for both their business and their family. Through guided conversation and interactive tools, she will help participants identify what supports effectiveness and wellbeing over time, and where small shifts can create more stability, confidence, and satisfaction in their roles. This breakfast will offer family business leaders a chance to step back from the demands of the day-to-day and leave with renewed clarity about how to carry their family and business roles in a healthier, more sustainable way. Register for the breakfast!
Monday, January 26
4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
PAR365
Strengthen The Strong gathers change-makers to form fresh relationships and foster a stronger and more prosperous community in the Twin Cities! Start the year with good conversations, genuine connections, and plenty of good vibes. Expect a warm, welcoming space to unwind, celebrate, and connect with familiar faces – and meet some new friends along the way. Save your spot!
Monday, January 26
6 – 8 p.m.
Virtual
Discover how to build your dream team of professionals who can take your business to the next level. Hear from experts in marketing, branding, design, HR, accounting, and more as they share insider tips on their expertise and offer guidance on finding the right partners for your unique business needs. Don’t miss this chance to network, learn, and gain valuable tools to drive your business growth. Learn more and register here.
Tuesday, January 27
12 – 1:30 p.m.
Virtual
In this SCORE webinar, you’ll learn how to update your growth strategy for 2026 by understanding what AI can do—and what it can’t. You’ll walk away with practical ways to use AI in marketing, operations, customer service, and decision-making. Register here!
Thursday, January 29
11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Virtual
Understand the HR updates and compliance shifts that could affect your business this quarter. This program highlights key regulatory changes and offers guidance on policies and procedures for a strong HR start to the year. Register here!
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