Facade Improvement Grant

The Facade Improvement Grant is a targeted sub-program of the broader Small Business Development Grant (SBDG) initiative administered by the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC). This grant aims to support small, for-profit businesses located in St. Croix County, Wisconsin, that seek to improve the exterior appearance of their commercial properties. By promoting investments in curb appeal, the program helps strengthen community vitality and supports local economic development goals. Administered under the authority of SCEDC, the Facade Improvement Grant provides direct financial support in the form of $5,000 reimbursement grants. Eligible projects include a variety of beautification improvements such as painting, signage, landscaping, exterior lighting, awnings, windows, and masonry work. The grant does not cover interior renovations, equipment purchases, or routine maintenance, and it strictly applies to work conducted on building facades. This is a reimbursement grant, meaning businesses must complete and pay for the eligible improvements before submitting their application for funding. To qualify, applicants must submit verifiable receipts to SCEDC as part of the application process. Moreover, the improvements must have been completed on or after January 1, 2026, to be eligible for reimbursement. The grant is part of a first-come, first-served review process, with date and time stamps used to prioritize applications. Incomplete applications will be returned, and the applicant must respond within 36 hours to maintain their original place in line. Eligible applicants must be for-profit businesses headquartered in St. Croix County, relocating their headquarters to the county, or adding a new business location within the county. Each applicant must also employ no more than 25 full-time employees and be in good standing with the State of Wisconsin. Compliance includes proper registration, licensing, and current standing with respect to taxes. In addition to meeting these requirements, all selected businesses must consult with either the St. Croix Valley Business Innovation Center or the UW-River Falls Small Business Development Center before receiving grant funds. The Facade Improvement Grant program will operate between January 2026 and December 2027 or until available funds are exhausted. Applicants may qualify for multiple grants under the broader SBDG umbrella, provided they meet the specific criteria of each. The total number of awards available across the full SBDG initiative is capped at 40. Recipients of the facade grant can expect processing and disbursement of funds to take up to eight weeks following application approval. All questions or inquiries regarding this grant program should be directed to SCEDC at (715) 690-2110. Additional information may be obtained by contacting the organization or visiting its official platforms.

Ensure all receipts are submitted promptly and application is complete to avoid losing position in review order.