Saint Paul’s Ward 1 Mobilizes for “Joy Economy” with STAR Grant Q&A

In Saint Paul’s Ward 1, community block parties are more than social gatherings—they’re vital for cultural healing and local commerce. Recognizing this, Councilmember Anika Bowie is urging residents to apply for the city’s Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) funds before the March 13th deadline.

Investing in the “Joy Economy”

For Councilmember Bowie, a lifelong Saint Paul resident and advocate for “arts for social change,” the STAR program represents a crucial opportunity to support the neighborhood’s economic and cultural pillars. She emphasizes that festivals and street markets are essential for an equitable economy.

“Our community festivals and block parties are more than events,” Bowie stated. “They are places of joy, culture, healing, and economic opportunity. They uplift artists and modest businesses and reflect the many cultures that make Saint Paul home.”

Historically, the STAR program, which reinvests a portion of local sales tax into neighborhood improvements, has often favored established developers. Bowie’s 2026 initiative aims to redirect these funds toward grassroots organizations, ensuring that wealth generated within the community remains within the community.

Demystifying the Application Process

A significant barrier for Black and immigrant-owned businesses has been the complexity of the application process. To address this, Ward 1 is hosting a specialized Q&A Information Session on Monday, March 2nd, at Springboard for the Arts.

The session is designed to simplify the process, with STAR Board members and technical assistance experts available to answer questions and provide guidance. The goal is to help applicants transform their proposals into funded realities, whether for storefront renovations or cultural landmarks.

“This session is designed to help applicants understand the process, strengthen proposals, and get questions answered before the deadline,” Bowie noted, emphasizing that “showing up” is the first step toward neighborhood empowerment.

Countdown to Community Wealth

With the March 13th deadline approaching, there is a sense of urgency in the North Conclude and Rondo corridors. Last year’s STAR cycle distributed over $3.7 million to dozens of projects across the city. Ward 1 aims to secure a substantial portion of this funding to support the next generation of entrepreneurs.

As Saint Paul navigates its 2026 budget priorities, the STAR grant remains a direct tool for residents to shape their neighborhood’s future.

Action Guide for Ward 1 Residents

• What: STAR Grant Q&A Information Session
• When: Monday, March 2 | 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
• Where: Springboard for the Arts, 262 University Avenue
• Accessibility: Accessible via the Green Line; Free parking available; ADA Accessible.
• Application Deadline: Friday, March 13, 2026, at 4 p.m.
• Virtual Option: Email ward1@ci.stpaul.mn.us for the Teams link or to submit questions in advance.