B.I.G.
Through the Reedsport Main Street Program, the City of Reedsport created the Business Improvement Grant to assist with building renovation projects. This program offers matching grants up to $2,500 for the structural or cosmetic improvement of businesses in Reedsport. Grants to businesses within the Urban Renewal District are funded by the Urban Renewal Agency. The amount of grants available to businesses outside the URD are dependent on funds raised through donations. The first grant cycle launched April 15, 2015.
The grant amount requested cannot total more than 50% of the total project cost. In-kind contributions such as labor can count towards the match. Projects that are complete under budget will receive the amount needed to cover the actual costs, with the remaining funds cycling back into the grant program in order to benefit more businesses throughout Reedsport.
All projects must be completed six months from the time that the grant is awarded. Extensions may be given under certain circumstances.
Interested in Applying for a Grant?
1. Think about what visual improvements can be made to your business. Previous grant recipients have made new signs, installed planters, applied new paint, created murals, replaced windows, and more.
2. Be realistic about what you can complete in six months. The more complicated your project, the greater the chance that you will run into unexpected challenges. Take into account the season and weather when planning projects. Any projects that you fail to complete may hurt your chances of receiving a grant in the future.
3. Create a budget for your project. Be careful not to underestimate your costs. If you complete your project over budget, the Business Improvement Grant will not award additional funds to cover the extra amount.
4. Prepare photos of the existing area and drawings or plans for the proposed changes that you would like to make. Show the visual impact.
5. If you do not own your business's property, make sure the property owner agrees to your project and grant application.
6. Provide proof of liability insurance on the property.
The grant amount requested cannot total more than 50% of the total project cost. In-kind contributions such as labor can count towards the match. Projects that are complete under budget will receive the amount needed to cover the actual costs, with the remaining funds cycling back into the grant program in order to benefit more businesses throughout Reedsport.
All projects must be completed six months from the time that the grant is awarded. Extensions may be given under certain circumstances.
Interested in Applying for a Grant?
1. Think about what visual improvements can be made to your business. Previous grant recipients have made new signs, installed planters, applied new paint, created murals, replaced windows, and more.
2. Be realistic about what you can complete in six months. The more complicated your project, the greater the chance that you will run into unexpected challenges. Take into account the season and weather when planning projects. Any projects that you fail to complete may hurt your chances of receiving a grant in the future.
3. Create a budget for your project. Be careful not to underestimate your costs. If you complete your project over budget, the Business Improvement Grant will not award additional funds to cover the extra amount.
4. Prepare photos of the existing area and drawings or plans for the proposed changes that you would like to make. Show the visual impact.
5. If you do not own your business's property, make sure the property owner agrees to your project and grant application.
6. Provide proof of liability insurance on the property.
