Category Archives: Economic Revitalization

Merry Microgrants!

The Friends of Downtown Northfield is excited to announce the return of Merry Microgrants for downtown business. Following its successful debut in 2022, this program aims to add a bit of holiday cheer to our downtown during the winter season.

Up to 10 grants will be awarded to participating downtown businesses for up to $150 reimbursement for interior and exterior storefront decoration supplies.

Eligibility:

  • Location: Your business should be within the C1 zoning district. A map is available for reference.

  • Storefront: Your business must be a brick-and-mortar establishment or a nonprofit with a public-facing storefront.

  • Priority consideration will be given to businesses actively participating in the Winter Walk event.

Apply in minutes using the online application form.

Don’t miss the opportunity to add a touch of festivity to your business. Ensure your applications are submitted by November 27th. Selected businesses will be notified by November 28th. At that time, you’ll receive comprehensive program details and next steps.

For any inquiries about the program or assistance with the application process, please feel free to contact us at info@friendsofdowntownnorthfield.com.

An evening photograph of the Winter Walk in downtown Northfield, Minnesota A photograph of store window display from the Winter Walk in downtown Northfield, Minnesota

 

 

Make Your Business Merry Microgrant

As we move into the bustle of the holiday season (and just in time for Winter Walk on December 8), the Friends of Downtown Northfield are excited to announce a microgrant opportunity for eligible downtown businesses with the Make Your Business Merry Microgrants.

Downtown businesses can apply for reimbursement of up to $100 for exterior or interior seasonal decorations to be on display in their business storefront throughout the winter season.

We want to help businesses enhance their space, attract more customers, and contribute to the overall winter aesthetic of our downtown district. The added bonus is that anything purchased can be used by the business for years to come.

Let us help you get winter (and Winter Walk) ready!

Businesses interested in applying for the microgrant should complete this application form by 4:00 PM, Friday, December 2, 2022.

Selected businesses will be notified by December 3, 2022. Purchases must be made by December 8, 2022 (previous purchases made between November 1 – December 1, 2022, will be considered for reimbursement if original receipts are submitted).

For questions or more information, please email: info@nddc.org

Program Details and Criteria

To be eligible to apply, businesses must:

  • Be located in the C1 zoning district (indicated in pink on this map)
  • Be a brick-and-mortar business or nonprofit with a public-facing storefront

Preference will be given to first-floor retail or service businesses that are participating in Winter Walk on December 9.

Additional program details:

  • The Friends of Downtown Northfield will reimburse businesses for purchases of interior or exterior storefront decorations (eligible purchases include holiday lights, window paint, flocking, winter or holiday décor items, and/or materials to create DIY decorations), up to $100.
  • Any items purchased for exterior use must comply with city safety, accessibility and design standards for sidewalks and storefronts and not impede/infringe upon access to any business or residence.
  • Items must be purchased between 11/1/2022 – 12/08/2022.
  • Items purchased will remain property of the business.
  • Businesses will be responsible for the purchase, installation, takedown, and storage of any items purchased.
  • Original receipts must be submitted along with a completed grant report form for reimbursement.

Northfield Tourism Recovery Grant

The City of Northfield just opened a Tourism Recovery Grant Program to provide financial incentives to organizations adversely impacted by the COVID- 19 pandemic that operate within the tourism sector. The goal of the program is to help the recovery and reinvest within the tourism industry that makes Northfield unique.
$30,000 of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) federal allocation for pandemic recovery and growth has been designated for this program.
Applications will be accepted until October 14, 2022. Read more about the guidelines and apply for a Tourism Recovery grant at the City website.