Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation Announces Main Street Economic Revitalization Grant Awards for Foley and St. Cloud

The Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC) has recommended more than $600,000 in Main Street Economic Revitalization Program (MSERP) grants for five projects in downtown St. Cloud and Foley. These projects are currently moving through the final processing stage. Funded by the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED), the program provides 30% matching grants to help businesses and property owners invest in development, repair, and renovation projects that stimulate economic growth and community vitality. 

“We’re proud to support these projects that not only enhance our downtown areas, but also create jobs, expand our tax base, and strengthen the economic foundation of our communities,” said NeTia Bauman, President & CEO of the GSDC.

FOLEY

Thorsten Holdings, LLC – Renovation and façade improvement at 201 4th Avenue N - Grant Amount: $37,680

• This project will modernize and improve the exterior appearance of the Thorsten Holdings building in downtown Foley, home to financial planning and insurance services. Renovations include façade upgrades designed to enhance curb appeal, improve accessibility, and create a more welcoming environment for clients and the community.

ST. CLOUD

Wirth Center for the Performing Arts – Phase 1 demolition and buildout at 11 N 7th Ave - Grant Amount: $199,000

• The Wirth Center will transform its facility by removing outdated interiors and rebuilding with new mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Improvements include an ADA compliant vestibule and entrance and the creation of modern studio spaces to better serve students and performance programs.

Fitzharris Ski, Bike & Outdoor – Structural and mechanical repairs at 105-109 7th Ave S - Grant Amount: $52,800

• Upgrades include a new roof and flooring, decommissioning of an outdated elevator, renovated bathrooms, new shelving, and an HVAC system replacement. These improvements will extend the building’s lifespan, improve energy efficiency, and provide a better shopping experience for customers.

706 West St. Germain – Major facility rehabilitation and shell renovation - Grant Amount: $199,000

• Comprehensive building improvements will address critical infrastructure needs, including mechanical system upgrades, interior finishes, concrete repairs, roof repair, ADA compliant bathrooms, and masonry restoration. These upgrades will position the building for future commercial tenants and increased downtown activity.

300 East St. Germain – Facility renovation and repair - Grant Amount: $99,999 

• This project will replace the roof, update HVAC systems, install ADA-compliant bathrooms, repair the entrance, and refresh interior spaces with new carpet, ceiling, and windows. The upgrades will ensure code compliance, improve accessibility, and provide a modernized environment for future occupants.
   

The investments will leverage more than $1.9 million in private funding, boosting the local tax base and supporting the creation of over two dozen jobs in Central Minnesota.

"Each project demonstrates the incredible impact public–private partnerships can have in transforming our downtowns. Every investment is more than a building upgrade—it’s a commitment to creating vibrant spaces where businesses can thrive and communities can connect," said Leslie Dingmann, Business Development Director for the GSDC.

The Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation received funding from DEED to administer the program, with the City of St. Cloud and the City of Foley serving as local funding recipients to support projects aligned with their downtown revitalization goals.

About the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation (GSDC): The GSDC is a private, non-profit organization driving inclusive economic development in Benton, Sherburne, and Stearns counties. Funded by business, public, and donor support, it focuses on talent, business growth, leadership, and future planning. Learn more at www.GreaterStCloud.com.