Motor City Re-Store program launches to help improve small business storefronts

For the past couple years, Motor City Match has helped small businesses open brick and mortar locations throughout Detroit. A new program has opened to assist established businesses improve their facades, exteriors, and landscaping.

The Motor City Re-Store program is meant to continue making Detroit more walkable and attractive by assisting businesses with matching grants to improve their exteriors. Grants will also be available for design and architectural services for exterior improvement projects.

Eligible projects include:

• Façade improvements
• Signage and exterior lighting
• Parking lot repairs
• Landscaping, storm water drainage, and other green improvements

The program is supported by a combination of Community Development Block Grant funds and other sources. The Economic Development Corporation of the City of Detroit (EDC) has stewardship of public funds. The program will be managed by a team at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation. The program is expected to grant $2 million in funds annually.

To be eligible, businesses must be located in the City of Detroit, must plan on being in their location for five years, and if a business is leasing a storefront, the landlord must apply with them. More details on the application process can be found here.

The first round of applications will be accepted from June 15 through August 1. Grant funds will be awarded quarterly.