Lake Street Council

Mission: The Lake Street Council fosters economic vitality and amplifies Lake Street's vibrancy to create a thriving and livable commercial corridor.

Vision: Lake Street as a vibrant, inclusive corridor with a mosaic of flourishing businesses and nonprofits, a diversity of cultures, and a spirit of innovation—a place where businesses, visitors, and residents feel a deep sense of belonging, ownership, and pride.

The organization operates across four primary focus areas:

Technical Assistance and Small Business Advising Provides small business advising in English, Spanish, and Somali. In 2024, the organization launched a workshop series focused on maintaining financial documentation, building credit, and planning for business expansion. The Council provides grants to businesses for property improvements and supports businesses through infrastructure challenges such as road construction.

Visitor Attraction and Placemaking Initiative Executes community activation events and digital marketing to uplift individual businesses and support partners. The Lake Street Reimagined program brings people to discover and support Lake Street while creating opportunities for local artists. In 2024, the organization provided funding for 20 murals, four sculptures and standalone installations, and two vinyl art installations.

Corridor Branding and Marketing Through the Visit Lake Street initiative, the Council promotes the commercial corridor as a vibrant destination for visitors and residents.

Advocacy & Policy Convenes stakeholders and advocates for the interests of Lake Street businesses and communities.