The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is now accepting grant applications for the Main Street Revitalization Program.
Nearly $1.2 million in funding for the Bemidji corridor is available. The specific corridor is defined as the area south of 20th St. NW but north of Roosevelt Rd. SE, with the western boundary being Highway 71 and the eastern boundary being Lake Ave. NE.
Eligible projects must be located within these boundaries, which could include building repair, renovation or new construction, landscaping, demolition and site preparation, non-publicly owned infrastructure, and design and engineering.
Grants can’t be used for purchasing real estate or for operating expenses. Program to fund eligible projects designed to address the greatest economic development and redevelopment needs that have arisen since March 15, 2020.
Grants can cover up to 30 percent of the project costs.
The maximum grant allowed, per Main Street Revitalization Economic Program guidelines, is $750,000. While NMF has not placed a cap on the grant amount that could be awarded, high interest in the program may result in grant requests only being partially funded.
Proof of matching funds is required. Matching funds cannot include state or federal funds or existing equity in buildings. Examples of matching funds include a bank commitment letter, bank statement or balance sheet showing cash on hand, or a commitment letter from donor.
Applicants may be businesses, nonprofits, or economic development professionals. Applications and more information is available at the NWMF website under “Open Grant Rounds.”
