An economically strong and vibrant downtown business district is vital to the local economy of communities— especially downtowns such as Grand Marais that are tourist destinations. The Cook County/Grand Marais Economic Development Authority’s housing and redevelopment program obtained funding to help two local businesses in 2012—The Garage and the Cook County Senior Center. The EDA, through the Grand Marais Downtown Redevelopment Program, continues to secure more funding for similar projects. The work has been successful and some funding is available for business rehab projects in 2013. The Grand Marais Downtown Redevelopment Program is now accepting applications for future projects.
The EDA’s commercial rehab coordinator, Steve Grabko of Community Fundraising Solutions (CFS), stressed that funds are limited. “Because of high business owner interest in the program, additional grant funding has been secured for four more projects, or up to 70 percent or $38,500 per project,” said Grabko.
Nancy Grabko of CFS explained, “Our Grand Marais Downtown Redevelopment Program financial partners include the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development’s Small City Development Program, the Iron Range Resource and Rehabilitation Board’s Commercial Rehabilitation Program, the City of Grand Marais Storefront Loan Program and the Cook County Revolving Loan Fund Program. As a result of this partnership, grants and low interest loans will be made available to business owners wishing to reinvest in the physical assets of their business property.”
Grabko encouraged business owners to contact the EDA housing office for information at (218) 398-2473 or Nancy Grabko at (218) 398-7626.
Funds are limited. Applications are available at City Hall. All applications are due by Monday October 1.
The EDA and CFS will continue to apply for funding for the Grand Marais Downtown Redevelopment Program as long as business owners express the need for utilizing these funds to make needed improvements to their property.
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