Commercial Exterior (Façade) Grant and Signage Grant

The Iowa County Community Development (ICCD) administers a grant program to assist with improvements to commercial properties within Iowa County, Iowa. This initiative includes two primary funding opportunities: the Commercial Exterior (Façade) Grant and the Signage Grant. Both grants are designed to enhance the visual appeal of business districts, reduce building deterioration, and encourage further development and economic activity. The funder, ICCD, is a local economic development agency that aims to revitalize downtown areas and promote a thriving commercial environment across the county. These grants are open to businesses located in Iowa County that are operating out of assessor-classified commercial properties. Businesses based out of residences are explicitly excluded. The Commercial Exterior Grant supports restoration and rehabilitation of building façades and exterior walls. Eligible costs include design assistance, supplies, awnings, and third-party contracted labor. Projects must adhere to the principles outlined in the Iowa Economic Development Downtown Design Guide, which ensures consistency and aesthetic alignment across revitalization efforts. For signage, applicants may apply under the separate Signage Grant, which covers new signage installations and improvements to existing signs, as well as other minor exterior improvements like painting and lighting. Applicants may request up to $5,000 per project for either grant, with a mandatory 1:1 cash match requirement. In-kind contributions do not count toward the match. Projects must be completed by December 31, 2026, and funds are disbursed only as reimbursements upon proof of payment. Importantly, labor costs are reimbursable only for qualified third-party contractors and not for work done by the business or property owners themselves. ICCD explicitly excludes a number of activities from funding, including interior renovations, landscaping, roof repairs, and acquisition costs. The application window for the current cycle opens March 1, 2026, and closes March 31, 2026. Submissions are reviewed by an ICCD Selection Committee composed of at least three board members. Recommended applications are forwarded for final board approval, which occurs on the second Wednesday of each month. All grant recipients will be notified no later than May 15, 2026. Applications are considered on a rolling basis during the window and may be discontinued early if funds are exhausted. Excess funds will carry over to the following year. A completed application includes basic applicant information, details of the project including materials and visual design elements, cost breakdowns, and documentation such as approval letters from property owners (if applicable), contractor estimates, and photographs. A comprehensive checklist is also provided to ensure that all necessary components are submitted. ICCD emphasizes adherence to both the grant program requirements and any relevant local ordinances. Additionally, deviations from the approved project plan may disqualify the applicant from reimbursement. Inquiries regarding the grant should be directed to Laura, the ICCD Community Director, reachable at 231-742-1446 or via email at [email protected]. While awards are made annually, each business or property may only apply once per calendar year. Recipients are expected to pay for their project up front and submit receipts for reimbursement. The program represents a targeted effort to support visual revitalization and commercial sustainability in Iowa County, one storefront at a time.

Follow the Iowa Downtown Design Guide closely; ensure all documentation and 1:1 match is fully prepared and submitted.