The 2024 Grant applications for Georgetown Main Street corridor businesses are open.
Donor Name: Georgetown Main Street
State: District of Columbia
City: Washington D.C.
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 03/01/2024
Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000
Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned
Details:
The 2024 Georgetown Main Street Small Business Grant fund is $40,000 total. Grant funds will be split into two buckets.
- Facade Improvements: up to two recipients.
- Business Growth: no fewer than 7 recipient.
Funding Information
- Facade Improvement Grant, Fund size: $10,000
- GMS will help and project manage one major exterior improvement. The GMS Board of Directors are interested in properties that have maximum need. NEW: Applicant must agree to contribute no less than 25% of the total project amount.
- Facade improvement may include:
- Fresh Paint
- Replaced Awnings
- Window Merchandising
- New & OGB Compliant Signage
- Repairs
- Competitive Edge Grant, Fund size: $30,000
- GMS will fund no fewer than seven business applications for business growth opportunities. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes aimed at fostering expansion, development, and increased revenue generation. Ideas include:
- Innovation: Developing and introducing new products, services, or processes can meet customer needs in a novel and efficient way.
- Efficient Operations: Streamline internal processes, optimize supply chains, and improving overall operational efficiency.
- Customer Experience: Provide an exceptional customer experience through personalized service, responsiveness, and effective communication.
- Market Research and Understanding: Businesses that stay informed about market trends, customer preferences, and industry developments are better positioned to adapt and respond quickly to changes.
- Brand Reputation: A positive brand image built on trust, reliability, and a commitment to values can attract and retain customers.
- Talent and Skills: Having a skilled and motivated workforce can contribute to innovation, efficiency, and overall business success.
- Effective Marketing and Positioning: A well-executed marketing strategy can effectively communicate a business’s unique value proposition and resonate with its target audience.
- GMS will fund no fewer than seven business applications for business growth opportunities. Grants can be used for a variety of purposes aimed at fostering expansion, development, and increased revenue generation. Ideas include:
Eligible Expenses
- Eligible Expenses for Facade Improvement Grant:
- Business Signage
- Painting
- Awning
- Doors and Windows
- Patios or decks (with evidence of proper Summer Garden or Sidewalk Cafe permits)
- Eligible Expenses for Competitive Edge Grant:
- New or upgraded equipment or technology (new point of sale system or
- Consulting fees
- Business Training
- New or improved brand guidelines, marketing strategy, website
- Other expenses related to enhancing business operations.
Eligible Businesses
- Any business located outside of the GMS boundaries
- Businesses that have received over $5,000 from GMS in the past 3 years
- Businesses without appropriate and current licenses, permits, and other necessary registration to be a legally operating business in Washington, DC
- Businesses that do not have have at least 1 year remaining on their lease or fail to submit an LOI for lease renewal
- Adult entertainment
- Gas stations
- Banks
- Home-based businesses
- Professional Services (i.e. real estate, accounting, legal firms, etc…)
- Churches
- Nonprofit organizations without storefront retail
- District of Columbia government agencies
- Any organization that discriminates against individuals on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, political affiliation, physical handicap, or any other protected class under the DC Human Rights Act and/or any federal anti-discrimination statute or regulation.
For more information, visit Georgetown Main Street.
