Decatur renews grant funding for small businesses

The Decatur Downtown Growth Authority DDA has renewed funding for three grant programs providing financial assistance to local businesses The grants include the Commercial Facade Improvement Grant CFIG Commercial Buildout Improvement Grant CBIG and Marketing and Digital Connectivity Grant MDCG The DDA approved grants for businesses in the majority latest round distributing a total of The majority of the new funding is for the CFIG effort which was replenished with to advocacy projects focused on enhancing and beautifying storefronts and awnings accoding to a press release Additionally has been allocated to the CBIG which 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 Completely was earmarked for the MDCG which helps restaurant and small business owners upgrade their online presence through the design and production of marketing materials and content for digital platforms The success of this effort over the last two years has proven that demand remains high and our local business owners are committed to continuous improvement Conor McNally DDA chair revealed in a announcement Given the World Cup is rapidly approaching and we are preparing to host Decatur WatchFest next summer there is an increased sense of urgency for local businesses to put their best foot forward so we are proud to sponsorship them Decatur WatchFest will see days of free outdoor screenings of World Cup matches at the newly renovated Decatur Square including the eight matches set to take place in Atlanta This will include live music both before and after the games with Downtown Decatur s local restaurants pubs and breweries serving a critical role Applications for the small business grants are accepted semiannually with the latest window open now until Sept Grants will cover up to of the eligible costs of any approved project with the business owner covering a minimum of The CFIG and CBIG will allow for minimum contributions from the DDA of and a maximum of while the MDCG will have a minimum of and a maximum of for approved projects Microgrants up to are also available for the CFIG grants covering small expenses such as broken doors windows or graffiti removal Once the application window is closed the DDA oversight committee will review all submissions with applicants being notified of their status following the Advancement Authority s final review and approval Once approved CFIG and CBIG projects must begin within six months and be completed within months consistent with the City of Decatur s permitting process MDCG grants must begin within six months and be completed within months For more information on the grant programs and how to apply please visit http decaturdda com grants The post Decatur renews grant funding for small businesses appeared first on Rough Draft Atlanta