Four West 7th neighborhood businesses have been awarded funding through the Sustainable Business Enhancements Grant, a new program aimed at supporting environmentally friendly upgrades while strengthening the local commercial corridor.
Administered by the West 7th/Fort Road Federation through its Revitalize West 7th Program, the grants are funded by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and provide up to $10,000 per business for eligible improvements.
Awardees include White Squirrel Bar, which will install solar panels; Tavial Grill, which will repair and upgrade a high-efficiency walk-in refrigeration system; Emerald Lounge, which will install energy-efficient windows; and 7th Street Barbers, which will also replace windows with more efficient models.
Federation Executive Director Julia McColley said the investments support both economic vitality and climate goals by helping small businesses reduce energy use and operating costs while improving their physical spaces.
Program organizers said the grants are part of a broader strategy to promote long-term sustainability, local ownership and resilience along West 7th. Additional funding rounds may be announced as the program continues.
More information about the Revitalize West 7th Program is available at fortroadfed.org/revitalize-west-7th.
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