Commercial Grants Program for Small Business in Decatur, Georgia

Decatur DDA Offers Three Grant Programs for Local Businesses

Initiatives support exterior enhancements, interior improvements, and marketing needs

The Decatur Downtown Development Authority has expanded its commercial grants program, inviting small business owners and commercial property owners within the City of Decatur, Georgia to apply:

1. Commercial Facade Improvement Grant (CFIG)

The CFIG program provides financial assistance for exterior renovations and repairs to commercial and mixed-use buildings. After a successful rollout in 2022, the CFIG has been replenished with $100,000 to support projects focused on enhancing and beautifying storefronts and awnings. Example projects include the façade mural at Siam Thai (123 Sycamore St.), the sign and awning for Float Atlanta (115 Clairemont Ave.), the new door at Rebel Teahouse (225 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Suite 110).

2. Commercial Buildout Improvement Grant (CBIG)

The CBIG is funded with $50,000 and aims to reinforce the interior aspects of commercial buildings in Downtown Decatur, especially retail shops, restaurants, bakeries and breweries, by repairs and upgrades to walls, floors and ceilings, plumbing repair and improvement, grease trap replacement or HVAC repairs and upgrades. 

3. Marketing and Digital Connectivity Grant (MDCG)

Focused on helping restaurant and small business owners upgrade their online presence, the MDCG has a budget of $25,000 earmarked for the design and production of marketing materials and content for digital platforms, including brand and logo design, website design, video shoots/photo shoots, and ad campaigns (e.g. Instagram, Facebook ads).

The Application Process

Each grant is open for applications on a quarterly basis. Each grant reimburses 75% of the cost of any approved project, with the business owner covering the other 25%. The CFIG and CBIG allow for minimum contributions from the DDA of $2,500 and a maximum of $10,000, while the MDCG has a minimum of $250 and a maximum of $2,500 for approved projects.

Once the application window closes, the DDA oversight committee reviews all submissions, and notifies applicants of their status following the  Development Authority’s final review and approval. Approved projects must begin within six months and be completed within 18 months, consistent with the City of Decatur’s permitting process.

Questions?

Please contact Shirley Baylis, Business Development Manager, City of Decatur.