In a year of unprecedented challenges, Target’s more committed than ever to supporting our hometown of Minneapolis-St. Paul. And our latest cause is helping those right in our backyard of downtown Minneapolis.
Target’s committing $1 million to the newly formed Mpls Downtown Small Business Grant Program, designed to help small and independently owned businesses in the downtown area as they navigate an incredibly challenging business environment.
“Small businesses throughout downtown Minneapolis—including those that surround Target’s headquarters offices—contribute so much to the city and help make it such a vibrant and dynamic place to live and work,” says Target Chairman and CEO Brian Cornell. “Given the immense challenges these businesses have faced this year, we’re contributing $1 million to the Minneapolis downtown small business grant program to help support the downtown community through these difficult times.”
The fund will provide much-needed aid for the local hospitality industry including restaurants, bars, retailers, and entertainment venues, providing grants up to $25,000 for expenses such as rent, utilities and insurance. Eligible businesses can apply for support now through January 15, 2021.
In addition to local small businesses, we’re continuing to respond to our hometown community’s needs. Read on for a few additional local causes we’re supporting.
Supporting students through the Digital Learning Fund
Target will donate $500,000 to the Minnesota Business Coalition for Racial Equity Digital Learning Fund—which is working with the Partnership for a ConnectedMN—to help support Black, Indigenous and People of Color communities across the state with the technology, internet access, safe learning spaces and mental health support they need to navigate remote digital learning. It’s just the latest example of progress on our $10 million commitment to providing COVID-19 relief and assistance to organizations responding to the pandemic, while also supporting our ongoing efforts to advance racial equity.
Helping combat homelessness in Hennepin County with the Avivo Village project
Target will also support the Avivo Village project with a $225,000 donation. The village is the first indoor, tiny houses community of its kind created to help address unsheltered homelessness in Minneapolis and Hennepin County, and is set to open by the end of the year. The space will house up to 100 adults and will include essential services such as substance use disorder treatment, mental health therapy, medical care and assistance with permanent housing.
