The bill proposes appropriations for economic development initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses in the cities of St. Paul and West St. Paul. Specifically, it allocates $3,000,000 from the general fund for St. Paul to collaborate with the West Side Community Organization, and $2,000,000 for West St. Paul to work with the Residents of Color Collective. Both grants are designated for businesses with ten or fewer full-time employees and can be utilized for various purposes, including technical assistance, establishing revolving loan funds, issuing loans (including no-interest and forgivable loans), and providing grants for operating expenses.

The appropriations are set for fiscal year 2026 and will remain available until June 30, 2027. This funding aims to enhance economic development and job retention efforts, thereby supporting the sustainability and growth of small businesses in these communities.