Forty-four businesses in 30 neighborhoods throughout Detroit received in total $330,000 in the first round of grants from the Motor City Re-Store Grant Program. Among the winners, 43 percent of the businesses were owned by women.
Next round opens in January
The grant program was launched in June by Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and the Detroit Economic Growth Corp. The grant money can be used to make improvements to the outside facade of businesses in the Detroit area, including signage, exterior lighting, landscaping, parking lots repairs, and other improvements. Grants can range from $2,000 up to $25,000 per business.
The matching grants are offered in two categories, construction and design. The construction grant is up to $25,000 which is paid after the construction is complete. Design grants are up to $10,000; this grant is awarded immediately and is for technical assistance. Businesses can apply for both, with construction grants following design grants.
Eligibility
The grant contest is for for-profit businesses with a storefront located in Detroit and who plan to remain in Detroit for 5 years or more. Business owners who are renting the storefront may apply with their landlord.
For more information on how to qualify and when to apply for the next round of Motor City Re-Store grants, visit www.motorcityre-store.com/apply/
