In response to growing concerns surrounding Ely area businesses impacted by the ongoing wildfire and related closures, United Way of Northeastern Minnesota (UWNEMN) has established an Ely-specific wildfire fund that allows donors to designate their gifts to small businesses.
“People close to Ely – be it physically or in spirit – are feeling a shared sense of urgency to support local businesses,” said UWNEMN Executive Director Erin Shay. "We feel it, too. These businesses make our region special for residents and visitors alike, they support organizations like ours throughout the year, and this is everyone's chance to give back."
In an effort to kickstart fundraising and ensure funding is available when small business applications open, anonymous donors have committed a “1 for 2” match for the Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund, adding an additional dollar for every $2 donated up to $35,000.
“It’s an honor to live in and work for a region that means so much to people across the state,” Shay said. “We take that responsibility seriously and will continue to work hand-in-hand with the community to ensure these donations are used as intended in a way that makes the greatest impact.”
An application for small businesses to request assistance will open by July 31, 2026. UWNEMN is updating its existing disaster relief rubric to reflect the current situation and guide funding decisions. Qualified businesses will receive funding on a first-come, first-served basis, and UWNEMN will continue fundraising as funds are distributed.
“We know time is of the essence,” Shay said. “We are hearing that some businesses may already be considering closing their doors for the summer with the sharp decline in visitor traffic.”
UWNEMN was approached by a number of community members and organizations to establish the fund. With more than a decade of experience raising and distributing crisis funds, the organization has a strong track record of supporting the communities it serves. It has also provided funding to local businesses on multiple occasions, namely through its Bright Beginnings childcare initiative.
“Our local businesses are the heart of this community, and their recovery is essential to the future of Ely,” said Burntside Lake Association President Martie Sparks. “We encourage everyone who loves this area to consider making a donation, knowing that you have a voice in where your donation goes and it will be handled in a responsible and timely manner.”
Donors wishing to support the Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund can also designate their gift to the Area(s) of Greatest Need. These donations may be allocated to small businesses, fire departments, non-profits, cleanup efforts, and/or other community purposes (including individuals should residences become impacted) in Ely depending on what is determined to be the highest unmet need in long-term recovery.
“We are here for the long haul, and we know what’s needed most six months or a year out may look very different than what’s needed most today,” Shay said.
Other communities within UWNEMN’s service are also being affected or are at-risk due to wildfires.
The organization continues to fundraise simultaneously through its Crisis and Disaster Recovery fund.
Nearly $50,000 has been raised to date with individual donations ranging from $1 to $5,000 as well as contributions from Boston Scientific, NewRange Copper Nickel, Sota Clothing and Twin Metals Minnesota.
Funds raised to-date have been used to purchase air purifiers for Ely area seniors, and all local organizations actively responding to the wildfire have been made aware they are eligible to request funding.
“We aren’t seeing a huge influx of requests for our general crisis funding at this time, but we know from experience that can change quickly,” Shay said. “We also know how critical funds will be for the cost and time-intensive clean-up and recovery when resources grow scarce.”
Support the Ely Wildfire Recovery Fund | $1 added for every $2 donated!