Small Business Physical Improvement Incentive Program

The City of Athens Opportunity Council Districts Small Business Physical Improvement Incentive Program is a competitive grant initiative created to stimulate economic development within two retail-stagnant city council districts. Established by Resolution #2026-2141 on February 23, 2026, the program aims to revitalize underutilized commercial corridors in District 3 and District 5 by funding permanent physical improvements that enhance business viability and attract future private investment. This incentive program was initiated with a total allocation of $200,000, equally split between the two districts, and is administered under the direction of Mayor Ronnie Marks with input from designated District Advisory Teams. The core objective of the program is to support small, locally owned businesses within the eligible districts by subsidizing physical infrastructure upgrades that contribute to long-term community development. To be considered, applicants must operate a retail or non-professional personal service business (such as a restaurant, salon, or repair shop) physically located in one of the two qualifying districts. Businesses that offer professional services, residential rentals, or sell alcohol or tobacco as their primary business are explicitly excluded. Additionally, applicants must be in full compliance with city zoning, code enforcement, and tax/license obligations. Tenants may apply only with the written consent of their property owner and a minimum three-year lease term. Applicants are encouraged to submit their proposals early, as the awards are competitive and determined based on merit. The evaluation process begins with a review by a District Advisory Team composed of community leaders and city officials, including the district’s respective council member and the city’s Communications Specialist. These teams recommend qualifying proposals to the mayor, who then brings them to the City Council for final approval. Projects must align with both city ordinances and design aesthetic standards, particularly for historically or architecturally significant buildings. All improvements must be consistent with long-term economic growth and neighborhood revitalization goals. Eligible uses for the funds include both exterior and interior improvements such as façade renovations, storefront windows and doors, ADA accessibility upgrades, signage compliant with city ordinances, landscaping, code-required upgrades, and systems like HVAC or plumbing that enhance the property’s long-term usability. However, the funds may not be used for operational costs such as rent, payroll, inventory, or work initiated before program approval. Grant disbursements are generally made as reimbursements upon project completion, though progress-based disbursements may be approved in limited circumstances. Award recipients must adhere to all compliance terms, including use of licensed contractors, adherence to approved designs, and documentation of completion. The application deadline is June 15, 2026. Applicants must submit a complete package including the signed application, itemized budget with contractor quotes, photographs of current site conditions, and a valid business license. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applications should be submitted physically to City Hall at 200 West Hobbs Street. The process includes a public notice in the Athens News Courier prior to final council approval. For additional questions, applicants are directed to contact Justin Travis, Communications Specialist, at [email protected] or (256) 262-1451. Overall, this program represents a deliberate effort by the City of Athens to spur localized economic activity in areas with historically low investment. By offering direct support to qualifying businesses for improvements that enhance both the commercial property and the broader streetscape, the city seeks to foster a more equitable and sustainable economic future for Districts 3 and 5. The rigorous review and eligibility requirements ensure that only projects contributing to long-term revitalization goals will receive funding, and the program design prioritizes responsible stewardship of public funds while promoting community-driven development.

Early submission is encouraged; incomplete applications will not be reviewed.