MMDC Facade Improvement Grant

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)

• 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)

Application Process

1. Submit Application - Complete the MMDC Facade Improvement Grant form
   • Application opens: February 1, 2026
   • Application closes: February 17, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
   • Status: Application period has closed for 2026
2. Review Process - A review committee evaluates applications and awards funding to top-scoring applicants as funds allow
3. Award Notification - Applicants notified on March 2, 2026
4. Grant Agreement - Approved businesses must sign a brief agreement outlining use of funds
5. Reimbursement - Submit the following to receive reimbursement:
   • Receipts for completed work
   • Short project summary (1-2 paragraphs)
   • W9 form
   • ACH documentation
   • All documentation must be submitted by December 31, 2026

Required Materials

• Proof of business registration in Michigan
• Documentation of matching funds (at least 50% of total project costs)
• Municipal support or evidence of discussion with municipality
• Evidence of LARA good standing
• Completed grant application form
• Project timeline and description
• Project completion documentation (receipts, summaries, W9, ACH info)

Note: A sample strong application example is available as a downloadable PDF on the website.