Want some space in the former Roof Depot building? EPNI is seeking proposals!

In 2024, the city of Minneapolis will formally transfer the former Roof Depot site to the East Phillips Neighborhood Institute - marking the start of community stewardship for the 230,000 square foot warehouse  in the heart of East Phillips.

Now, EPNI is looking for partners to join us as we work to transform this space into an indoor urban farm and dynamic community hub - centered around meeting people’s needs and fostering relationships with the land and each other.

If you’re interested in taking part and taking up some space in the southern portion of the warehouse, please fill out this form as soon as possible!

Fill it out with as much detail as you can provide, but don't stress if you don't yet know the answers to all of the questions below. We want to learn as much as we can through this form, and will get in touch with you to talk further.
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Guiding Principles
Wherever we can within this project, we want to intentionally challenge the status quo and build something that is:
    • Emergent: Built by the community from the bottom-up instead of top-down 

    • Generative: Generates food, well-paying jobs, cultural connection, relationships and other good things.

    • Equitable

    • Educational
    • Sustainable: Culturally, financially, and environmentally. Planning this project in a way that doesn't displace people from East Phillips

    • Local
    • Decolonial

    • Communal
    • Holistic: Elements interact with each other in a cyclical and synergistic way

      • For example: converting food waste from a cafe into compost for an outdoor garden.

These are some of the guiding principles that EPNI has returned to as guidance over the decade it has taken to get the project to this point. If they resonate with you too, we'd love to hear your pitch!
Name *
Pronouns
Email address *
Phone Number
Describe your idea in one sentence.
For established organizations/small businesses with a website or social media, please link those below so we can learn more.
Spacing: What are your space requirements? Do you have a minimum amount of square footage needed to operate?
Industry: What is the nature of your business/operation? How do you support your activities financially?
Branding: Do you have any specific design or branding requirements for interior or exterior designs?
Timeline: What is your potential timeline for moving in after the July 2024 purchase date? Do you have a long term plan for the space or broader growth objectives for your activities?
Infrastructure: What are your known technical and infrastructure needs? Are there any needs in regards to electrical, windows, plumbing, HVAC, internet connectivity, or any specialized equipment needed to operate?
Security: Do you require any enhanced security systems, access controls, or other safety features?
Accessibility: What are your accessibility requirements? The space must comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards and local accessibility regulations. How could you go above and beyond these standards to make your space accessible and welcoming?
Budget: What is your budget for leasing? Would you need financial assistance to help cover startup costs? Is there anything you are willing to share about how you could finance your buildout or lease? (access to grants, relationships with philanthropic donors, etc)
Cooperatization: We have been considering a co-op model for our building tenants. Would you be interested in joining a cooperative? If so, what would you want to get out of membership?
Design: Do you have an architect or designer in mind or are you looking to partner with an architect or designer?
Communal: Would it be possible to share your space with other organizations or individuals from the community? What could that look like?
Organization: What type of legal entity is your organization? An LLC, 501c3, Co-op, corporation or other?
Is there anything else you want to add about how your idea would align with the guiding principles at the top of this form?
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