2025 Great Place Project Awards Announced
The Cook County Chamber of Commerce announces the grant winners for 2025
June 11th, 2025 – Grand Marais, Minn.– The Cook County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Great Place Project grants. This program, designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of local businesses and public spaces, has awarded grants to seven businesses this year:
• Gunflint Tavern
• Scruffy Dog Vintage Emporium
• Cook County Higher Education
• Cook County Historical Society
• Gunflint Lodge & Outfitters
• Grand Marais Art Colony
• World’s Best Donuts
These businesses and organizations will use the grants, ranging from $250 to $1,000, to fund a variety of projects that will make our community more welcoming and vibrant. Past projects have included the installation of public art, the creation of outdoor seating areas, and landscaping improvements.
"We were blown away at the number of applications this year and are excited to see these projects come to life," said Linda Jurek, Executive Director of the Cook County Chamber of Commerce. "These grants will help to create more beautiful and inviting spaces for our residents and visitors. We encourage everyone to visit these businesses and check out the amazing work they are doing."
The Great Place Project is funded by the Chamber Foundation and the generous support from Visit Cook County Tourism Associations; Lutsen Tofte Tourism Association and Grand Marais Area Tourism Association.
The Great Place Project is a testament to the Chamber's commitment to fostering a thriving business environment that enriches the community. This year Lutsen Tofte Schroeder Tourism Association and Grand Marais Area Tourism added additional support allowing for increased financial funding. The Cook County Chamber of Commerce and Visit Cook County understand the importance of supporting our local businesses in their business’ advancements.
About Cook County Chamber of Commerce
The Cook County Chamber of Commerce serves the business communities located in
northeastern Minnesota: Schroeder, Tofte, Lutsen, Grand Marais, the Gunflint Trail and Grand
Portage. The Chamber provides local networking and programming; provides a voice for
advocacy in St. Paul; gives voice to local business concerns; and celebrates the recognized
achievements of our members. Connect with us on social media using Facebook. Learn more at
https://cookcountychamber.org/
###
Questions? Contact us
Cook County Chamber of Commerce Admin
