MMDC Facade Improvement Grant

MMDC Facade Improvement Grant

The Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) is excited to announce the Facade Improvement Grant — a part of our Trusted Connector Program. This matching grant program is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses in Clare, Isabella, and Osceola counties improve their exterior and interior facade.

Grant Timeline: 

  • Application Opens: February 1, 2026
  • Application Deadline: February 17, 2026
  • Awardee Notifications: March 2, 2026 
  • Project Completion Deadline: December 31, 2026

Program Goals

Through this grant, MMDC aims to:

  • Support eligible small businesses in revitalizing physical storefronts.

  • Enhance placemaking efforts and economic activity in regional downtowns.

  • Align with MEDC goals for small businesses sustainability and growth. 

  • Promote reinvestment and pride in community commercial corridors.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must:

  • Be an eligible small business (≤ 500 employees) per the Trusted Connector Grant Agreement

  • Be located in a downtown district or DDA district in Clare, Isabella, or Osceola Counties. 

  • Be in good standing with LARA and possess a valid business registration in the State of Michigan.

  • Provide matching cash investment of at least 50% of total project costs. 

What Can the Grant Cover?

  • Painting, window, and door repair or replacement.

  • Signage restoration or replacement (compliant with local ordinances).

  • Masonry and brick cleaning or repair.

  • Lighting fixtures or awnings.

  • Accessibility improvements. 

  • Interior facade elements visible to the public (e.g., display windows, lobby renovations, flooring, ceiling repairs, painting, drywall, lighting fixtures, etc.).

Ineligible Uses:

  • Rent or mortgage payments.

  • Utility bills or subscription services.

  • New construction or non-facade improvements.

  • Debt repayment or payroll expenses.
  • Any costs reimbursed under other State or Federal programs.

Grant Details

  • Up to $5,000 per business in matching funds.

  • Total program funds allocated for facade projects $40,000.

  • Businesses must contribute a minimum of 50% match of eligible project costs.

How to Apply

  1. Submit Application – Complete the MMDC Facade Improvement Grant form, opening February 1, 2026. Application will close February 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

  2. Review Process – A review committee will evaluate applications and award funding to top-scoring applicants as funds allow.

  3. Award Notification – Applicants will be notified on March 2, 2026.

  4. Grant Agreement – Approved businesses must sign a brief agreement outlining use of funds.

  5. Reimbursement – Submit receipts, a short project summary, and a W9 to receive reimbursement.

Selection Criteria

  • Project Readiness & Timeline: Clear, feasible project timeline. Work can begin promptly upon award. Already discussed project with municipality.
  • Visual & Economic Impact: Significant improvement to building facade or interior space. Positive impact on downtown aesthetics, business traffic, and/or revenue. Demonstrated long-term benefits.
  • Matching Funds Availability: At least 50% match confirmed with valid documentation. Stronger matches (more than 50%) may receive higher points. Funding sources are clearly identified and credible. 
  • Business Need/Justification: Shows how improvements will help business stability or growth. Prokect would be unlikely without this funding. Business has not received a grant from Middle Michigan Development Corporation within the past 5 years. 
  • Historic or Cultural Relevance: Preserves or enhances local identity and architectural integrity. 
  • Compliance with Local Ordinances: Has local support (e.g., DDA, city) or pending approvals. Strong alignment with local planning and revitalization efforts. 

Apply Today!

Reporting Requirements

Awardees must provide:

  • Final receipts.

  • A brief summary (1–2 paragraphs) describing purchases and impact.

  • Required financial paperwork (W9 and ACH documentation).

All documentation must be submitted by December 31, 2026.

Looking for an application example?

Download the PDF below to see an example of a strong application for the Facade Improvement grant. 

SAMPLE Facade Improvement Grant