Local Downtown Business Support Program

The Local “Downtown” Business Support Program offers two grant opportunities—Commercial Exterior Grants and Sign Grants—to support business and property owners in enhancing the appearance of buildings in Iowa County’s downtown area. The program aims to encourage restoration, preservation, and overall improvement of commercial properties, creating an inviting environment that stimulates business activity and community engagement. Eligible projects must be located in the downtown area and classified as commercial properties by the assessor. Businesses operating out of residences do not qualify. The selection process is managed by the ICCD Selection Committee, which consists of at least three ICCD board members. Applications are reviewed within 30 business days of receipt, and selected applications are submitted for board approval on the fourth Wednesday of the month. The application window for the 2025 grant cycle runs from March 1 to March 31, 2025. Grant recipients will be announced by May 1, 2025. Funding is available until it is depleted, at which point applications will be closed for the year. Approved projects must be completed by December 31, 2025, and funds will be paid on a reimbursement basis upon submission of project receipts and proof of payment. Only labor costs incurred by qualified third-party contractors are eligible for reimbursement. Projects must adhere to the Downtown Design Guide administered by Iowa Economic Development, ensuring alignment with best practices in storefront design, materials, color schemes, signage, windows, lighting, and awning selection. The Commercial Exterior Grant is available to business and property owners, with property owners required to provide a letter of approval if a business owner is applying. Eligible projects include restoration or rehabilitation of facades and exterior walls, including design assistance, awnings, supplies, and third-party labor. Grants are awarded up to $5,000 per project with a 1:1 cash match requirement (i.e., applicants must match the awarded amount in cash; in-kind contributions do not qualify). Applicants may apply once per year. The Sign Grant is available to business owners, with property owners required to provide a letter of approval. Eligible projects include building-attached signage and associated lighting. Stand-alone signs are not eligible. The maximum award is $5,000 per application, also requiring a 1:1 cash match. Applicants may apply once per year, per business. Ineligible improvements include interior remodeling, business acquisition costs, landscaping, architectural modifications, roof improvements, working capital, inventory, water/sewer service lines, and personal property purchases. Additionally, work started before grant approval is not eligible for reimbursement, except in emergencies. For more information, applicants may contact Iowa County Development’s Community Director at 231-742-1446 or email Laura@iowacountydevelopment.com. The guidelines were last revised on July 1, 2024.