District Dollars Micro-Grants

Empowering local-scale improvements

In 2023, the Downtown District launched the District Dollars Micro-Grants program, awarding $25,000 for projects designed to support local, small-scale improvements. All grants were implemented within the Downtown District boundaries (see map) and aligned with one of three Impact Areas (Public Safety, Public Art/Beautification, and Community Building.) The program awarded grants to the following seven recipients.

2023 District Dollars Micro-Grants:

  • ArchglowYoga (Citra Fitness & Movement): Hosted five free evening yoga sessions, welcoming nearly 400 attendees.

  • STL Downtown Link (Labyrinth Smart Mobility): Provided gap funding, allowing for two months of extended availability. Since the program began, it has been utilized by 22,000 riders.

  • Lunch on the Landing (Laclede’s Landing Neighborhood Association): Contributed to the inaugural season of a weekly lunchtime series on the Landing, Fridays from May through October, drawing an average of 200 people each day.

  • Blues on the Block (National Blues Museum): Supported the annual free weekly concert series, from June through August, bringing dozens of musicians, dance groups, and other artists to celebrate the blues.

  • Pizza in the Park (Pocketparks): Hosted four free events with pizza and live music, attracting nearly 240 attendees.

  • Security Cameras (The Thaxton): Installed security cameras near entrance points, enhancing public safety elements for visitors and pedestrians.

  • Supplemental Exterior Lighting (T-REX): Strategically installed four supplemental lights, illuminating the entirety of the building’s parking lot.