The Decatur Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has announced the launch of two new grants to provide specified financial support to local businesses: the Commercial Buildout Improvement Grant (CBIG) and Marketing and Digital Connectivity Grant (MDCG) programs.
In addition to the new initiatives, the DDA announced the renewal of the Commercial Facade Improvement Grant (CFIG).
The CBIG will be funded with $50,000 and aims to reinforce the interior aspects of commercial buildings in Downtown Decatur, especially retail shops, restaurants, bakeries and breweries, by repairing walls, constructing new internal spaces or making HVAC repairs and upgrades.
Focused on helping restaurant and small business owners upgrade their online presence, the MDCG has a budget of $25,000 earmarked for the design and production of marketing materials and content for digital platforms.
Finally, the CFIG was replenished with $100,000 to support projects focused on enhancing and beautifying storefronts and awnings.
“When we launched the CFIG program earlier this year, we received tremendous engagement from local business owners and saw a critical need was being served,” Conor McNally, DDA chair, said in a news release. “Given that response, we recognized the value in taking it a step further, which is why we established the CDIG and MDCG to help address both the physical and digital challenges they need to thrive.”
Each program will feature opportunities to apply quarterly, with the first 21-day window for applications opening on Jan. 8, 2024. All grants will cover 75 percent of the cost of any approved project, with the business owner covering the other 25 percent. The CFIG and CBIG will allow for minimum contributions from the DDA of $2,500 and a maximum of $10,000, while the MDCG will have a minimum of $250 and a maximum of $2,500 for approved projects.
Once the application window is closed, the DDA oversight committee will review all submissions, with applicants being notified of their status following the Development Authority’s final review and approval. Once approved, the project must begin within six months and be completed within 18 months, consistent with the City of Decatur’s permitting process.
For more information on the grant programs and how to apply, click here.
The City of Decatur, located just east of Atlanta, is home to 25,000 people.
