Fresh Food, Bright Future: How Lincoln Park Hub is Changing Duluth
In the heart of Duluth, Minnesota, Ecolibrium3 (Eco3) has been a driving force behind neighborhood-based development, fostering sustainability and economic strength in the Lincoln Park (LNPK) community.
With a mission to combat food insecurity and create opportunity, Eco3 embarked on a transformative journey to repurpose its former headquarters into the LNPK Hub Grocery Store. Thanks to the support of a $200,000 grant through the 2021 Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) Targeted Small Grants Program, this 1,800-square-foot facility will bring fresh, accessible food options to an area that has long struggled with food access. HFFI is a national program administered by Reinvestment Fund on behalf of USDA Rural Development that invests in food retail and supply chain businesses, increasing food access in underserved areas across the country.
Through research previously conducted in partnership with the University of Minnesota–Duluth, Lincoln Park has been identified as the city’s highest-priority food access area, with the nearest grocery store more than two miles away. Home to over 6,000 residents, Lincoln Park features a vibrant Craft District and one of Duluth’s most iconic parks surrounding scenic Miller Creek. Yet, the community has historically experienced disinvestment in both residential and commercial areas. Many residents live below the federal poverty line and face limited transportation options. Recognizing the critical need for fresh produce and staple goods, Eco3 envisioned a community-centered grocery store that would serve as more than just a retail space. In partnership with the LNPK Hub, a community center Eco3 is renovating, and Eco3’s Urban Farm, this project brings together synergistic solutions to food insecurity, including training for food preparation and retail skills, wraparound support services for low-income residents, and a Pay It Forward Produce Program to help SNAP beneficiaries stretch their food dollars.
The LNPK Grocery is a reflection of what’s possible when we invest in people, prioritize access, and build for long-term impact.
Jodi Slick, founder and CEO of Ecolibrium3
“At Eco3, we believe community strength starts with meeting basic needs in ways that empower,” said Jodi Slick, founder and CEO of Ecolibrium3. “The LNPK Grocery is a reflection of what’s possible when we invest in people, prioritize access, and build for long-term impact.”
HFFI funds have played a crucial role in bringing this vision to life and ensuring the project’s long-term success. The grant has supported hard and soft construction costs, the purchase of essential store equipment, and community engagement incentives. From the early planning stages in January 2023 to the anticipated completion in July 2025, the LNPK Hub Grocery Store has followed a carefully structured development process. Key milestones include extensive community engagement, design and permitting, interior demolition, equipment procurement, exterior improvements, and renovation of operational spaces. Training initiatives are also well underway to ensure the store is staffed by individuals committed to serving their community.
The impact of this project extends far beyond fresh food access. By creating job training opportunities and offering comprehensive support services, the LNPK Hub is driving economic empowerment within Lincoln Park.
Eco3 envisioned a community-centered grocery store that would serve as more than just a retail space.
LNPK Grocery has followed a carefully structured development process.
Early planning stages began in January 2023 with the anticipated completion in July 2025.
As the store moves closer to its grand opening, community enthusiasm continues to grow. Eco3’s commitment to community-driven solutions has positioned the LNPK Hub Grocery Store as a beacon of hope and innovation in Duluth. Through strategic investment, collaboration, and a deep understanding of local needs, this project exemplifies how revitalization efforts can create lasting change. With continued support from initiatives like HFFI, Lincoln Park is on a path toward a healthier future—one where fresh food, economic opportunity, and community well-being go hand in hand.