Main Street Economic Revitalization Program

This is a state-funded initiative through the Department of Employment & Economic Development (DEED) intended to provide grants for capital improvement projects in commercial corridors across the state.

Projects resulting in the development, redevelopment, renovation, or repair of buildings are eligible for funding under this program.

Funding is available to anyone who has plans to invest in an eligible project per the requirements listed below. Priority will be given to business owners or developers from underserved populations including Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) individuals, LGBTQI individuals, women, veterans, individuals with disabilities, low-income individuals, and individuals living in rural communities.

Businesses can receive a grant for up to 30% of the total project cost. Eligible expenses include:

• Repair, or renovation of real property
• Building construction
• Landscaping and streetscaping
• Demolition and site preparation
• Predesign and design
• Engineering
• Non-publicly owned infrastructure
• Related site amenities

The following expenses are ineligible:

• The purchase of real estate or business operations
• Business operating expenses such as inventory, wages, or working capital

Projects must be completed by June 30, 2026

An applicant should check with their local municipality for all permitting, zoning and ordinance requirements.

The following are some examples to give you an idea of whether a project is eligible. Not all eligible projects will receive funding. Some types of projects that are not listed below may be eligible.

1. Development:
   1. Building a new structure on previously vacant land.
   2. Adding additional space onto an existing structure.
2. Redevelopment:
   1. Demolishing an existing structure and constructing something new
   2. Repurposing an existing structure to find a new use
3. Renovation
   1. Making an improvement to a building façade (storefront)
   2. Remodeling the interior of a building

• Remodeling a doorway or building a ramp to improve ADA compliant accessibility

4. Repair
   1. Repairing a leaking roof
   2. Fixing broken windows or doors

• Resolving a safety concern

1. Adding fire suppression/sprinklers
2. Replacing a damaged HVAC system

Yes! Up to 50% of the funds that have already been expended (for example architecture, legal, and demolition costs) can count towards the matching funds for the grant.

Note that these grant funds cannot support a project that can occur without the funds, so if a project is actively underway, these funds can be used to cover the actual costs of an “enhancement” to the project design (for example increased square footage, better materials, energy  efficiency, or an improved facade).