The Saint Paul Port Authority today announced the recipients of the first round of funding through its CORE (Capitol Outreach for Revitalization & Expansion) Grant Program, awarding grants to four Capitol Area businesses for capital improvement projects that will modernize their facilities, enhance public safety and accessibility, and strengthen the surrounding neighborhood.  

“The CORE Grant Program was created to help local businesses make capital improvements that might otherwise be out of reach while creating lasting benefits for the neighborhood,” said Todd Hurley, president and CEO of the Saint Paul Port Authority. ” We are proud to partner with these businesses as they continue to invest in Saint Paul and contribute to a more vibrant Capitol Area.”  

The CORE Grant Program is administered by the Saint Paul Port Authority in partnership with the State of Minnesota’s Department of Administration. Established through a 2025 legislative appropriation of $1,000,000, the program provides grants ranging between $50,000 and $150,000 to support capital improvement projects undertaken by for-profit businesses located within the Capitol Area. Eligible projects include façade improvements, energy upgrades, new equipment, accessibility improvements, and safety enhancements to buildings.  

“The Capitol Area is a unique district where government, neighborhoods, businesses and cultural destinations come together,” said Erik Cedarleaf Dahl, executive secretary of the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board. “These projects will improve the appearance, safety, accessibility, and long-term viability of important community assets while helping reinforce a strong sense of place throughout the Capitol Area.” 

The inaugural round of CORE Grant awards supports improvements to restaurants, neighborhood retail businesses, and entertainment destinations that serve residents, employees, and visitors throughout the Capitol Area. Collectively, the projects will improve building conditions, reduce energy costs, enhance accessibility, expand business opportunities, and create safer and more inviting commercial corridors.  

Projects were selected through a competitive process that prioritizes economic and community impact, including job creation, tax base growth, business sustainability, and community benefit.  

“Strong local businesses are essential to strong neighborhoods,” said Saint Paul Mayor Kaohly Her. “These CORE grants will help business owners improve their facilities, better serve their customers, and create welcoming places that contribute to the vitality of our capital city. I’m grateful for the partnership between the State, the Saint Paul Port Authority, and the business community to support meaningful economic development in Saint Paul.” 

The second round of the CORE Grant Program is currently open and closes August 31. An additional $670,000 was appropriated during the 2026 legislative session for a third round of the program, which will launch in 2027.  

“The CORE Grant Program is exactly the kind of investment that helps communities thrive,” said State Senator Sandy Pappas. “By supporting local businesses with the resources they need to improve their properties and serve their customers, we are strengthening both our economy and our neighborhoods. I was proud to provide funding for this initiative, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have throughout the Capitol Area for years to come.” 

First Round CORE Grant Recipients

Mama Thai Kitchen ($149,999)

Mama Thai Kitchen will undertake a comprehensive modernization project that includes construction of an ADA-accessible entrance and restroom, upgraded exterior lighting and signage, replacement of aging kitchen equipment, and the addition of a new bar area. The improvements will enhance accessibility, improve safety and energy efficiency, expand dining options, and strengthen the restaurant’s long-term sustainability.  

Friendly Grocery and Meat Market ($105,000)

Friendly Grocery and Meat Market will complete significant building and equipment improvements, including replacing its aging roof, updating its HVAC systems, and installing new energy-efficient coolers and freezers. The project will reduce operating costs and help preserve an important neighborhood resource as the area’s only halal, affordable grocery store.  

Sam’s Market & Deli ($149,999)

Sam’s Market & Deli will renovate its downtown Saint Paul location through structural flooring replacement, new lighting and ceiling improvements, HVAC upgrades, commercial kitchen ventilation improvements, and installation of fire-suppression systems. The project will support the business’s planned expansion into prepared foods and hot meal service, creating opportunities for job growth while improving the customer experience and strengthening the surrounding commercial corridor.  

PAR Cade / Two Bit Game Room ($130,000)

PAR Cade, LLC, home to the Two Bit Game Room and Rent My Arcade, will install energy-efficient storefront windows and security lighting, restore the building façade, and construct an expanded indoor gaming lounge. The improvements will reduce energy costs, improve pedestrian safety, enhance the visitor experience, and support the continued growth of a unique entertainment destination that attracts visitors from across Minnesota and Wisconsin to the Capitol Area.  

To learn more and to apply for a CORE Grant, visit sppa.com/CORE. 

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About the Saint Paul Port Authority 

The Saint Paul Port Authority (SPPA) is an economic engine for Saint Paul and the entire state of Minnesota. SPPA redevelops underused land into thriving business centers to bring jobs and tax base to Saint Paul; offers finance tools to help Minnesota companies become more energy efficient and resilient; and manages the Saint Paul Harbor on the Mississippi River, providing jobs and connecting our region to a global marketplace. Learn more at sppa.com.