DULUTH ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DEDA) SPIRIT VALLEY GROWTH GRANTS Grant Program
Goals: DEDA is providing small $500 grants to eligible applicants located within the small business commercial corridors of Spirit Valley. This program is eligible to both building owners and leasing businesses with a valid lease in the corridor. Funding can be used for a variety of improvements and activities that enhance the street’s appearance and encourage public engagement, such as exterior cleaning and painting, live performances, classes, seating, signage, planters, lighting, for use at the Spirit Valley Days festival with a goal of consistent daily use of items being requested. The goal is to create a more vibrant, welcoming, and active street environment by supporting small-scale projects that draw people in and improve the overall experience of Spirit Valley. Grant funding is provided by DEDA in partnership with Boreal Waters Community Foundation. Products and Services purchased by the grant must be used during the Spirit Valley Days; August 6th-9th 2026.
Who can apply and how much can my business or building apply for?
Building owners and leasing businesses can apply for grants up to $500 for street activation purchases with proof of ownership or a valid lease agreement.
Eligible locations must be on:
- Grand Ave., between N. 59th Ave. W. to N. Central Ave.
- N. Central Ave., between Grand Ave. to 35W.
What can the funding be used for?
- Exterior cleaning - including graffiti removal
- Exterior Painting
- Planters, flowers, artificial turf
- Street furniture & seating
- A-frame/portable signs
- Window displays and decorative lighting
- Pet-friendly amenities like water, shade
- Outside service counter or food cart (for food service businesses only)
- Exercise class or other activities
- Busker/musicians, live artists/demonstrations
- Fees and/or supplies for hosting a community organization (Lake Superior Zoo, Animal Allies, Duluth Public Library, etc.)
When are the grant applications deadlines?
Applications are due on Friday July 10th.
What will be expected from a business that is granted with funding?
- Grantees will be provided with a grant agreement from the Duluth Economic Development Authority (DEDA)
- As a reimbursable grant, all grantees will be required to provide receipts and images of what purchased and how it was used. (Images provided may be subject for use by the city of Duluth for promotional materials)
- After the grant agreement is signed by both DEDA and the applicant, the applicant will then be able to purchase the items requested.
- After the item is installed and work is completed, applicants will be required to submit all receipts with their one-page grant reporting document to be issued the reimbursable funds.
- Items purchased will need to be completed and utilized for Spirit Valley Days August 6th -9th 2026.
- Please note: Reimbursement checks may take up to two weeks from the time when grant reporting completed until payment is received.
Questions?
Grant Program: Angie Stier at astier@duluthmn.gov.
Zoning related: Jenn Moses at jmoses@duluthmn.gov