Cook County Chamber of Commerce Great Place Project

 

This initiative presents a unique opportunity for Chamber members to significantly enhance the aesthetic appeal of their businesses, contributing to a more vibrant and welcoming community for both residents and visitors.


The Great Place Project is dedicated to supporting innovative projects that transcend typical operational budgets, fostering creativity and beautification throughout our local business community. Chamber members are eligible to receive financial assistance ranging from $250 to $1,000 per grant.


Inspiration from Past Projects:


The Great Place Project has previously funded a diverse array of enhancements, including:

  • Installation of benches, picnic tables, lawn chairs, and flower pots.
  • Support for mural projects that add artistic flair to our streets.
  • Convenient bike racks
  • The addition of recreational elements, such as a ping pong table, fostering community engagement.

 

We invite all Chamber members to explore how this grant can be leveraged to create a more inviting and engaging atmosphere for their businesses and our community. Whether through artistic expression, functional improvements, or the addition of elements that encourage relaxation and leisure, the Great Place Project offers a valuable opportunity to make a lasting, positive impact.

2025 Great Place Project:

In 2025, the Cook County Chamber of Commerce was able to award $5,250 in funds with the help of Lutsen Tofte Tourism Association and Grand Marais Area Tourism Association. 

2024 Great Place Project Recipients:

Shook
Gunflint Trail Historical Society
Superior Creamery
Voyageur Brewing 
World's Best Donuts
The Big Lake
Roam & Whimsy Co.
Joy & Co. 

2025 Great Place Project Recipients:

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

2022 Great Place Project Recipients:

Skyport Lodge & Raven Rock Grill
Cook County Historical Society
Chik Wauk Museum and Nature Center 
Sivertson Gallery
Mila Horak 

 

2023 Great Place Project Recipients:

Greg Mueller Studios 
Superior Creamery
Grand Marais Auto Parts
Sweetwater Co.
The Blue Moose
Drury Lane Books

Generational Mural

2024: World's Best Donuts

The Blue Moose Great Place Project 2023

2023: The Blue Moose 

Superior Creamery Great Place Project 2023

2023: Superior Creamery 

Sweetwater Co Mural Great Place Project 2023

                              2023: The Sweetwater Co                                        

Drury Lane Books Great Place Project 2023

2023: Drury Lane Books

North Shore Winery Great Place Project 2022

2022: North Shore Winery 

Napa Great Place Project 2023

2023: NAPA Auto Parts 

Sivertsons Great Place Project 2022

2022: Sivertson Gallery 

Chik Wauk Museum Great Place Project 2022

2022: Chik Wauk Museum and Nature Center 

Cook County Historical Society 2022

2022: Cook County Historical Society 

More Chamber Resources