2024 Neighborhood STAR Awards

Applicant: TMREIT, LLC
Project: The Mali Center
Award: $43,500

Replace concrete stairs, add automatic security gate at entrance of property, install sport court rubber with logo on top of concrete in side yard.

Applicant: The Dental Clinic
Project: Startup Buildout
Award: $130,500

Acquire a vacant office building with the intention of transforming it into a fully operational dental clinic. The primary objective of the clinic is to cater to patients with state insurance, a service not typically provided by most clinics. This comprehensive project involves several key construction components such as demo, clearing out construction debris, installing new LED lighting, conducting core drilling for mechanical systems, reinforcing walls and ceilings with wood backing, creating a lab and sterilization areas, fitting cabinets, setting up exhaust and plumbing systems, framing structures, installing drywall, relocating a restroom, laying down new flooring, setting up plumbing for sinks, air and vacuum systems, distributing HVAC, wiring LED lights, plumbing and electrical connections for dental chairs, installing a fire alarm system, crafting millwork, installing a kitchenette for the staff lounge, creating a doctor's workspace, installing signage, staining a staircase and completing final cleaning tasks.

Applicant: Tiger Investments
Project: Love for Rice Street and Charles Avenue
Award: $21,750

Enhancing safety and aesthetics with main entrance security, adding new fencing, and facade revitalization project.

Applicant: TKP LLC
Project: Walk-in Cooler and Exterior Signage at Ruam Mit Thai
Award: $43,500

Install new walk-in cooler in the back of the kitchen. Install exterior signage on corner of building and above canopy.

Applicant: Little Brazil MN LLC
Project: Introducing Brazilian Culture to Saint Paul
Award: $34,800

Installing new building signage that will make easier for drivers/commuters on Shepard Road to see the business. Install a new counter to receive customers properly that matches all PCR codes and offers a more comfortable experience to Saint Paul customers. Install 2 bike racks on the exterior of the building to allow bike riders to visit the shop safely while enjoying Saint Paul parks and trails and install a new fixed trash/recycling can on the front entrance of the building to increase awareness about recycling and make it easier to separate the waste from recycling.

Applicant: Local Legend Hospitality LLC
Project: Local Rumor
Award: $42,208.05

Update the facade of the building with new windows and doors; repair crumbling facade and entry way; install signage on the east facing side of the building; build out and install a front deck / patio for additional seats for customers; build planter boxers for the boulevard trees and front facade of building.

Applicant: Roots Wellness Center
Project: Roots Wellness Center
Award: $43,500

Renovate site to turn it into a vibrant, BIPOC led and centered wellness hub, including constructing a reception area, treatment rooms,  offices, and kitchenette space. This renovation will include the necessary mechanical, electrical and plumbing updates to bring all areas up to code and standard in ways that make the space usable for many years to come. This also includes drywalling, all new flooring, finishing ceilings and more.

Applicant: Highlight LLC
Project: Highlight Grocery Store
Award: $56,550

Install walk-in coolers and freezer, kitchen hood, and new signage.

Applicant: East Side Neighborhood Development Company
Project: Friendly Storefronts 2024-2025
Award: $43,500

The Friendly Storefronts program is intended to continue the momentum of the Lower Payne Commercial Vitality Zone (CVZ) that promotes city-wide vitality, growth, and equity along Payne Avenue on Saint Paul's Eastside. The program will facilitate facade improvements for 8-12 Eastside businesses with a maximum grant amount being $10,000. Businesses will also receive one-on-one consultations and training with ESNDC staff to assess optimal storefront improvements and designs and assemble contractors and artist teams.

Applicant: Sssdude-Nutz DBA The Donut Trap
Project: The Donut Trap Community Space
Award: $43,500

Patio build-out to accommodate the neighborhood using the space, including adding a community garden, raised garden beds, a greenhouse and additional seating for hot/cold days throughout various seasons. Add a mural to the side of the building that embodies the community and is done by a local artist in the area. Stucco the exterior of the building and add a permanent sign on the exterior of the building.

Applicant: Best Car Wash
Project: North End Car Wash Revitalization
Award: $42,630

Exterior improvements including installation of new awnings, update to pole sign to reflect the new business name, and retrofit the lighting from fluorescent to LED, on the pole sign and under the awnings.

Applicant: Grand Avenue Business Association
Project: Renovate, Revive, Reopen Storefronts on Grand
Award: $43,500

Grand Avenue Business Association (GABA) will support small businesses by creating a business improvement grant round. Eligible businesses along Grand Avenue will be able to use funding to support voluntary aesthetic and functional improvements to buildings, signs, sites, landscaping, or interior amenities, as well as any suitable arts related street activation. With corridor investments from the City of Saint Paul pending, improvements to local business signage, building integrity, curb appeal, public art, and greening activities will further enhance the corridor's economic vibrancy.

Applicant: Smok'N Outdoors BBQ LLC
Project: Smok'N Outdoors BBQ
Award: $42,468.18

We are seeking funds to update the building facade with hand painted advertising by a local sign painter and to install 30 solar panels on our south facing steel awning that covers our parking lot.

Applicant: Shanghai Wholesale LLC
Project: Shanghai Wholesale Market at Midway Project
Award: $63,473.89

Purchase and installation of refrigerated display case and holding tank to provide customers the opportunity to purchase fresh and sustainably grown fish and seafood.

Applicant: Dogwood Coffee STP LLC
Project: Dogwood Coffee Community Patio Space
Award: $30,450

We now have a large concrete patio space adjoined to our space which is located right at the SE corner of University and Emerald. We are requesting the STAR grant to allow us to build a permanent shade structure for patio area at new location.

Applicant: Celtic Junction Arts Center
Project: Celtic Junction Arts Center Capital Improvements
Award: $65,250

Expand the 2nd floor Eoin McKiernan Library by 600 square feet to accommodate new works and programs. Install a first-floor 220 sq. ft. green room space enabling performers to prepare for shows, build new 3,000 sq. ft. performance space and add five new public bathrooms and update an accessible bathroom. Create dedicated 270 sq. ft. storage space for light, sound, and event equipment on the first floor. Install a commercial kitchen and food/beverage service area on the first floor with 800 sq. ft. new build and 700 sq. ft. renovated space. Add 900 sq. ft. of new outdoor patio space for food/beverage service and performances. Establish ADA accessible entrance and pathways throughout the building including elevator, ramps, and automatic door openers.

Applicant: Liang-Sheng LLC
Project: 1332 Thomas Avenue
Award: $33,500

Repaving the entire parking lot and installing central heating.

Applicant: Hoodie's Coffee Den LLC DBA Catzen Coffee
Project: Catzen Coffee Outdoor Patio 
Award: $21,750

Improve outdoor area in the back of the shop, including clearing and landscaping of back slope, adding native plants, and creating two murals.

Applicant: Czech and Slovak Sokol Minnesota
Project: Window Replacement
Award: $34,068.33

Replacement of seven single pane windows, two of which are large and require unique frame design and construction. The windows will complete the process of sealing the building from all weather elements and greatly increase the energy efficiency in a historic building.

Applicant: District 6 Planning Council
Project: North End Economic Development
Award: $130,500

The North End Neighborhood Organization (NENO) will distribute funds to qualifying businesses, with up to sixty percent going to the cultural destination, which is Rice Street and forty percent percent utilized neighborhood-wide. We may incorporate an artistic component such as exterior murals as well as encouraging green build and energy efficient items in any renovations will be sought. Some components may be in the public right of way or in public spaces. We plan on funding five projects with exterior or interior work.

Applicant: Vikings and Goddesses Pie Company
Project: Renovations for 2036 Marshall Avenue
Award: $43,500

Address outdated and crumbling infrastructure to ensure ADA compliance, including installing a ramp and ADA-compliant entry, replace signage and awning, and renovate stairs to the basement.

Applicant: ZAKS LLC dba SoYen Desserts
Project: SoYen Desserts
Award: $43,500

Update electrical and flooring, HVAC updates, replacement of walk-in cooler, and addition of surveillance cameras.

Applicant: Rice & Larpenteur Alliance
Project: Neighborhood Signage and Business Sub-Grants
Award: $43,500

Rice & Larpenteur Alliance will use STAR funds for two projects: 1) completion of streetscaping/wayfinding materials installation, and 2) facilitation of a business improvement grant round for local businesses in the Rice and Larpenteur neighborhood in Saint Paul.

Applicant: Nanny's Jamaican
Project: Nanny's Building Improvements
Award: $43,500

Building renovations including painting, fixing and re-routing HVAC system, re-routing plumbing, fixing three compartment and prep sink, and constructing sewer pipe to be connected to the main pipe.

Applicant: Desperate Measures D.B.A Lost Fox
Project: Lost Fox Community Investment Grant Request
Award: $43,500

To enhance our place in the neighborhood, and provide this space, we are seeking funds from the Neighborhood STAR grant so that we can continue to grow and provide creative space for our village, including building a stage to be used for all types of community art, including but not limited to; open mic's, drag shows, musical performances, high school debates, author readings, small plays, art shows, town hall forums, etc. Add electric outlets for proper amperage, a P.A. system, move and expand existing sound panels, and rearrange existing lighting. Installation of a new sound system that will be capable of creating different atmospheres in the three designated spaces of our restaurant, and addition of a new sign to front of the building.

Applicant: Hepcat Coffee
Project: Hepcat Coffee Renovation
Award: $87,000

Reconstruct and expand the coffee shop to have Hepcat Coffee face the lobby area to enable us to expand our offerings and provide easier access for our customers. Expanded footprint will allow for broader menu offerings, both for food and beverage and will provide us the space to accommodate to-go orders as well. Aside from the physical reconstruction, updated electrical and additional water lines will also aid in our goal of providing these services.

Applicant: Black Hart of Saint Paul
Project: Patio Expansion
Award: $43,500

Continued expansion and build out of the patio for Black Hart of Saint Paul, including installing a roof, adding a seated area next to the bocce court, and upgrading electrical work.

Applicant: Sencha Tea Bar
Project: Sencha Tea Bar: Infusing Revitalization into our Community
Award: $39,150

Sencha Tea Bar is seeking this STAR grant to fund structurally necessary fixtures inside the establishment as well as updates to the facade of the building and storefront to refresh the look of the business on Grand Avenue.

Applicant: West 7th/Fort Road Federation
Project: Revitalize West 7th Program
Award: $43,500

The proposed Revitalize West 7th Program offers local businesses an opportunity to enhance their building facades, interior spaces, and accessibility features, contributing to the revitalization and vibrancy of our community. With grants of up to $10,000 available per business, this initiative aims to support small businesses in implementing improvements that not only beautify their premises but also create a more welcoming and engaging environment for residents and visitors alike.

Applicant: Amazed Group LLC, DBA Cups and Cheers Restaurant
Project: HVAC/Burner Replacement
Award: $43,500

Replace makeup air and update exhaust fans in kitchen and replace burners.

Applicant: MidCity Kitchen LLC
Project: MidCity Production Kitchen
Award: $43,408.65

Build a production kitchen in our basement, designed specifically for packing and production area and equipped with significant plumbing installations and construction of finished surfaces.

Applicant: Nickel-Joint LLC
Project: 501 Blair Rehabilitation
Award: $81,978.80

Roof repair, new flooring, and installation of reinforced doors, as well as rehabilitation and updates to bathrooms.

Applicant: The Sanneh Foundation
Project: ADA Accessible Multi-Use Courts at Sanneh's Conway Community Center and Park
Award: $43,500

Support for two outdoor ADA-accessible multi-use courts at our Conway location in order to expand opportunities and accessibility for community members.

Applicant: 30,000 Feet
Project: Black Arts + Tech Center in East Saint Paul
Award: $174,000

Neighborhood STAR funds will support the construction phase of a project to transform a bank building into a cultural and educational hub for East Saint. Paul, facilitating the establishment of a multidisciplinary space that fosters academic learning, technological advancement, and artistic expression for Black youth.

Applicant: Sohn Hee Eateries, LLC
Project: Capital Improvements for Food Safety Compliance 
Award: $8,700

Project funds will go toward a sufficient AC unit and maintenance work necessary on the current HVAC system.

Applicant: HeardLove Music
Project: HeardLove Music Community Center
Award: $42,195

Make building code-compliant including enhancing an existing bathroom to make it ADA bathroom, one compliance bathroom, one water closet, a vestibule, and two egress doors. Additionally add windows, remove drop ceiling, and refinish floor in youth lounge space. Finally, beautify the outside and hire a muralist from the Creative  Enterprise Zone to paint a large mural on the whole length of the building.

Applicant: Ala Francaise Bakery
Project: 823 University Roof Repair Project
Award: $42,630

The 823 University Roof Repair Project seeks funds to repair the existing roof of the 823 University Avenue building.

Applicant: Blendz Barbershop Minnesota LLC
Project: Blendz Barbershop MN
Award: $12,180

New security doors and security system, four-way partitions built into the walls of the barbershop to upgrade business to barber/beauty.

Applicant: Kwe Ka Buang Grocery S-corp
Project: Kwe Ka Baung Grocery
Award: $43,500

Enhance the exterior of our grocery store, including repainting the building's exterior to create a fresh, welcoming facade, and replacing the metal fence around the parking lot to improve security and provide a safer, more organized space for customers. Replace the sign on the front of the building, making it more visible and inviting to attract more customers. Upgrade our exterior door and windows on the storefront.

Applicant: Cadenza Music LLC
Project: Parapet Rebuild & Repairs at 149 Snelling Avenue North
Award: $43,500

Full rebuild of two parapets, replacement of damaged bricks, repair of stone head joints, roof counterflashing removal and replacement, removal, and reinstallation of signage and light fixtures, 100% tuckpoint on roof side of parapet.

Applicant: Rizq LLC dba Zait & Za'atar
Project: Energy Efficiency Project
Award: $20,010

Make location energy efficient and environment friendly with upgrades to the HVAC system and installation of a commercial dishwasher.

Applicant: Phi Chay Thai Cuisine of MN
Project: Floor Repair and New Equipment Upgrade 
Award: $26,970

Update and stabilize building floor and update wok range.

Applicant: BP Sushi
Project: Kitchen Hood
Award: $43,500

Install a new commercial kitchen hood.

Applicant: Hey Bear Cafe
Project: Hey Bear Storefront
Award: $21,007.02

Rehabilitate the storefront of our cafe/restaurant. This project includes replacing the large single-pane windows with energy efficient windows, repairing and painting the front stucco facade, installing new signage, and replacing the residential kitchen door with a heavy duty commercial door. Additionally, install operable windows so that we're able to move fresh air into the building when appropriate. Lastly, include a small window in the new kitchen door so to see out into the alleyway and allow light into the kitchen.

Applicant: Collectivity
Project: ADA Compliant Disability Lift
Award: $43,500

The project has two components, an internal upgrade and an external upgrade. There is an ideal location for a handicap lift immediately inside the main entrance that would require very little modification to install the lift. Externally, a new accessible ramp would be installed parallel to the existing parking lot affording ADA access to the front door platform. The project would also include an automated ADA door opener.

Applicant: Family Foods Market
Project: Expand Kitchen Hoods
Award: $43,500

Install and expand kitchen hood and fan system to add gas line and 42" x 42" roast pig oven.

Applicant: Comfort Meals Inc
Project: Commercial Kitchen Improvement
Award: $43,500

Comfort Meals is seeking funds to purchase and install a commercial hood fan and walk-in refrigerator to improve kitchen quality and safety at 886 Payne Avenue.

Applicant: West Indies Soul Food Inc.
Project: Beautify University
Award: $24,673.20

Beautification of the exterior University and Victoria area and improvements to our restaurant equipment.

Applicant: Block Portrait Studios
Project: Foundation and Exterior Improvements
Award: $43,500

Building sign updates, lighting installation, rebuilt and repaint front entrance area, and foundation repairs.

Applicant: Universal Enterprise LLC
Project: Rehabilitation of Front Side and Renovation of 686 Snelling Avenue North
Award: $43,495.65

The funds would be used to fix and update the exterior  and interior parts of the property including renovation of building facade, replacing doors and windows, laying tiles, and restoring the HVAC (heating and cooling) by replacing the broken furnace and add air conditioning, updating the electrical wiring and lighting into code-compliant system, and installing a new exterior business sign.

Applicant: Midwest Legislative Solutions
Project: Latino Enterprise Site
Award: $33,500

Construction of a sustainable and environmentally conscious site for a Latino Enterprise concept.

Applicant: Dabbler Depot Coffee, LLC
Project: Dabbler Depot Parking Lot Renovation
Award: $26,100

New asphalt for parking lot in the back of the property and creation of a patio.

Applicant: I Heart Pho, Inc
Project: I Heart Pho Addition
Award: $52,200

We are seeking funds to build an addition of roughly 450 square feet to our existing restaurant. The addition will house an attached walk-in cooler/freezer and much-needed storage space.

Applicant: Hmong Cultural Center of Minnesota
Project: Hmong Cultural Center Capital Improvements Project
Award: $41,325

The Hmong Cultural Center Capital Improvements Project will involve the following components: Updating basement classrooms used by HCC's popular Qeej instrument instructional program for children and youth with new carpeting. Installation of a new door between the Hmong Cultural Center Museum and a 1st floor building elevator to improve access from the museum to the 2nd floor public spaces and classrooms of the Hmong Cultural Center for those with disabilities or who have difficulty navigating stairs. Installation of new carpeting in the 2nd floor public exhibit spaces, library and classrooms of Hmong Cultural Center.  Installation of enhanced security in the 2nd floor public areas of the Hmong Cultural Center including two way mirrors and a camera system on the public staircase and hallway areas.

Applicant: Faith City Church
Project: Energy Efficient Windows and Exterior Door
Award: $30,450

We are applying for funding for removal of all existing front and side windows and main entry door, as well as the installation of new thermally broken storefront framing, insulated glass, and new entry door at Faith City Church/G.W. Center for Innovation.

Applicant: The Rondo Community Land Trust
Project: Selby Avenue Art Exchange: Celebrating Rondo's Creativity
Award: $37,845

Commission local artists to create mini murals and window decals for the small business incubator at 856 Selby Avenue, as well as mini gallery walls within participating businesses along the Selby Avenue corridor. These artistic installations will not only beautify our neighborhood but also serve as magnets for economic activity.

Applicant: Stellar Grounds LLC
Project: Urban Place: Repaving and Relandscaping Project
Award: $43,500

Improvement of the parking lot and landscaped areas of the seven unit residential rental property site at 150 E. Urban Place with repaved parking lot, laying groundwork for electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, and sustainable landscaping.

Applicant: El Burrito Mercado
Project: ADA Ramp and Energy-Efficient Upgrades
Award: $30,000

We are requesting fund for two projects 1) ADA Ramp Replacement/Upgrade 2) Retail Cooler Freezer replacement.

Applicant: In Black Ink
Project: Park Lynn Legacy House
Award: $20,000

Exterior improvements to ensure participants’ safety and enhance building signage.