Façade Grant Program

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION

Offered as a competitive opportunity, this program awards matching grants for façade improvements within the designated DDA district (refer to the map below, with the district highlighted in purple). The allocation of grants to projects within a fiscal year is contingent upon the program’s budget, with a new funding cycle commencing annually in March.

2024-2025 FAÇADE GRANT APPLICATION

The Village of Elk Rapids Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is thrilled to announce that the 2024-2025 Façade Grant Application is now open! The deadline for submission is April 19, 2024, by 5:00pm.

The DDA Façade Grant Program aims to stimulate private investment through the rehabilitation and enhancement of façades within the DDA District, emphasizing the support of historic preservation practices. This initiative seeks to enhance the visual appeal of building façades, thereby boosting the economic health of the DDA District.

The grant program advocates for designs that not only set a high standard of quality but also aim to preserve the unique architectural character that Elk Rapids is known for. Proposed designs should harmonize with the historic nature of the buildings and their neighboring structures.

Through the provision of reimbursement grants to property owners and commercial tenants, the program is designed to highlight the significant influence that individual building improvements can have on the overall aesthetic, quality, and vibrancy of Elk Rapids.

AWARD RECIPIENTS

  • Mullaly's 128 Gallery - $2,625

    Fischer Insurance - $4,488

    Tinker Taylor - $2,492

    HERTH - $10.000

    My Michigan Roots - $4,512.50

  • Swim to You - $3,600

    GetADesign - $350

    Haystacks - $7,185

    Stuff & Such - $1,850

    Foundry Craft Grillery - $5,000

    Traverse Bay Farms - $4,445

 FAQs

  • Nearly all grant programs will only cover expenses after date of award, which is th same for DDA Façade funding.

  • Said another way, the applicant will spend $10,000 and $5,000 will be reimbursed by the DDA. In both cases, the cost of the project is initially borne by the applicant and theDDA reimbursing half of actual expenses.

  • Yes