MMDC Facade Improvement Grant

MMDC Facade Improvement Grant

Status: Application period closed for 2026 (opened February 1, 2026; closed February 17, 2026)

Geographic Scope: Clare, Isabella, and Osceola Counties, Michigan - specifically businesses located in downtown districts or DDA (Downtown Development Authority) districts

Program Goals:

Support eligible small businesses in revitalizing physical storefronts

Enhance placemaking efforts and economic activity in regional downtowns

Align with MEDC goals for small business sustainability and growth

Promote reinvestment and pride in community commercial corridors

Eligibility

• Must be an eligible small business (≤500 employees) per the Trusted Connector Grant Agreement
• Located in a downtown district or DDA district in Clare, Isabella, or Osceola Counties
• In good standing with LARA and possess a valid business registration in the State of Michigan
• Must provide matching cash investment of at least 50% of total project costs
• Has not received a grant from Middle Michigan Development Corporation within the past 5 years

Funding Details

• Award Amount: Up to $5,000 per business in matching funds
• Total Program Funds: $40,000 allocated for facade projects
• Match Requirement: Minimum 50% match of eligible project costs (stronger matches may receive higher points)

Eligible Project Costs

• Painting, window, and door repair or replacement
• Signage restoration or replacement (compliant with local ordinances)
• Masonry and brick cleaning or repair
• Lighting fixtures or awnings
• Accessibility improvements
• Interior facade elements visible to the public (display windows, lobby renovations, flooring, ceiling repairs, painting, drywall, lighting fixtures, etc.)

Ineligible Uses

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Utility bills or subscription services
• New construction or non-facade improvements
• Debt repayment or payroll expenses
• Any costs reimbursed under other State or Federal programs

Program Timeline (2026)

• Application Opens: February 1, 2026
• Application Deadline: February 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
• Awardee Notifications: March 2, 2026
• Project Completion Deadline: December 31, 2026

Selection Criteria

• Project Readiness & Timeline: Clear, feasible project timeline; work can begin promptly upon award; project already discussed with municipality
• Visual & Economic Impact: Significant improvement to building facade or interior space; positive impact on downtown aesthetics, business traffic, and/or revenue; demonstrated long-term benefits
• Matching Funds Availability: At least 50% match confirmed with valid documentation; stronger matches receive higher points; funding sources clearly identified and credible
• Business Need/Justification: Shows how improvements will help business stability or growth; project would be unlikely without this funding
• Historic or Cultural Relevance: Preserves or enhances local identity and architectural integrity
• Compliance with Local Ordinances: Has local support (e.g., DDA, city) or pending approvals; strong alignment with local planning and revitalization efforts

Reporting Requirements

Awardees must provide by December 31, 2026:
• Final receipts
• Brief summary (1–2 paragraphs) describing purchases and impact
• Required financial paperwork (W9 and ACH documentation)

Contact: Middle Michigan Development Corporation, (989) 772-2858