The Department’s financial assistance programs can be utilized for a wide range of business activities.The Department makes direct loans and grants and also works in close partnership with the local banks. Economic development staff  will work with you to determine which finance program best meets your needs.

City of Saint Paul Funding and Technical Resources for Businesses
List of programs, eligibility requirements and contact information.

Central Corridor Ready for Rail Small Business Forgivable Loan
The Ready for Rail program offers interest-free deferred loans to qualified small businesses on the Central Corridor LRT line in Saint Paul.

Capital City Business Development Program
The Capital City Business Development Program  provides gap financing to businesses that cannot secure sufficient conventional private or non-profit financing, but can demonstrate a capacity to repay loans.

Conduit Revenue Bonds
With these Conduit Revenue Bonds, not-for-profit institutions can achieve below-market interest rates.

Mainstreet Programs
Maintstreet Program provide assistance to neighborhood businesses.

Small Business Loan Guarantee Programs
The Small Business Loan Guarantee Program provides gap financing to small businesses and emerging entrepreneurs that cannot secure conventional private or non-profit financing, but can demonstrate a capacity to repay loans.

Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR)
The Sales Tax Revitalization (STAR) program uses sales tax proceeds to further residential, cultural, commercial and economic development in both Downtown Saint Paul and Saint Paul neighborhoods.

U.S. Small Business Administration America's Recovery Capital (ARC) Loan Program
The ARC Loan Program is designed to give viable small businesses facing immediate financial hardship some temporary financial relief so they can keep their doors open, refocus and get their cash flow back on track. ARC loans are available through SBA-approved small business lenders and have been authorized through September 30, 2010, or until the appropriate funds run out whichever comes first. *NOTE -  SBA will not be ready to accept loan packages from lenders until June 15

More information on other Saint Paul Recovery Act Programs and Reports