Indianapolis’ Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) will be accepting applications for the Small Business Façade Improvement Program. The program is a product of the Fostering Commercial Urban Strategies program and awards grant money to retail and commercial property for the purpose of renovating street-front exteriors of space and building.
Since 1992, LISC Indianapolis has been empowering residents to develop their communities into safe, attractive, and healthy neighborhoods. LISC’s mission reaches into a variety of initiatives, including initiatives in education, economic development, family, and health. Through the Small Business Façade Improvement Program, LISC Indianapolis hopes to empower small businesses of Marion County to succeed economically and lead their neighborhoods towards community improvement.
Eligible projects include renovations of building surface materials, signage, or entryways, and any retail, commercial, or mixed-use building owner or tenant is able to apply. Projects can be reimbursed up to 50% of the total costs, with most past awards placing around $1,000-$5,000, a maximum of $20,000 available. Any renovation costs taking place before receiving the award are not eligible for reimbursement. Respective nonprofit development corporations will reimburse recipients after the project is completed and proof of payment documentation is provided.
An independent panel will select award recipients, prioritizing applicants with the following characteristics:
- “Distressed” neighborhoods
- Small businesses
- Complementary area investments
- Struggling commercial corridors
- Front-facing façades
- Minority- and women-owned enterprises
- Opportunity for job creation
- Support of other LISC programs
Recipient of the grant award are also eligible for design or architectural assistance. Those interested in such assistance should indicate so on the grant application.
Award applications can be found following this link, and are due May 30th. Awards will be announced July 15th. Projects must be able to be completed by December 1st.
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