Cultural STAR

Overview

Cultural STAR provides grants and loans to Saint Paul cultural projects and organizations. Most projects are located in the Saint Paul Cultural District (bordered by I-94 to the north Lafayette Bridge to the east Mississippi River to the south, and Chestnut Road to the west). Cultural STAR grows Saint Paul's economy by strengthening the arts and cultural sector and supporting Downtown as a vital cultural center.

The four major goals of Cultural STAR are:

• Build and diversify audiences;
• Promote a broad range of cultural offerings;
• Produce a long-term impact; and
• Leverage additional financial support.

Cultural STAR is funded by Saint Paul's half-cent sales tax.

Applications

The 2023 Cultural STAR program announcement is coming soon. Sign up to receive Cultural STAR updates via email.

Helpful application materials

• Sample applications
• Contact program staff to request other sample applications that may provide additional insights into what makes a strong application.
• Application process section of the special projects, organizational development and capital project guidelines.

Guidelines

The Cultural STAR Program achieves the program purposes by making grants and loans for projects and programs that: attract audiences; develop and improve cultural facilities; and build capacity of artists and cultural organizations.

Review the program guidelines for more details about our three program types:

Capital Project Guidelines Organizational Development Guidelines Special Project Guidelines

Board

The Cultural STAR Board reviews all applications and makes funding recommendations to the Mayor and City Council. Board members are also asked to help promote the program to arts and cultural organizations, neighborhood and business groups, and others that may be interested.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until all seats are filled.

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