Property owners and developers in Downtown New Orleans can get a little help with sprucing up the front of their buildings through the Downtown Development District Micro Grant Façade Program.
The program is designed to provide an economic incentive to retailers, restaurants and other businesses for improving the appearance of window displays, signage and exterior lighting as well as increase customer traffic, enhance pedestrian safety and improve the visual appeal of the street.
Matching Grant and Amounts
The Micro Grant Program will provide a grant of 60% of eligible project costs, up to a maximum $10,000 in expenditures. A maximum $6,000 is eligible for reimbursement to the applicant under the guidelines of this program. Applicants must be able to document total project costs that the matching grant amount will apply to, and the construction contract and related documents must clearly delineate the costs associated with the Façade Improvement project, separate and apart from any other construction or renovation costs.
Exterior lighting that enhances pedestrian safety in the public realm, a $3,000 grant will be offered without requiring a match from the applicant, provided that the applicant keeps the lighting on from dusk until dawn.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants for the program are building owners and/or business tenants currently owning or leasing property within the legal boundaries of the DDD as well as prospective owners/businesses planning to locate within the area.
Type of Businesses Eligible
Any business which can be permitted by the city to operate at the location will be considered for participation in the program. However, all applicants must operate and be in compliance with all city codes and demonstrate current licensing and that they are not delinquent in City sales or property taxes.
Eligible Improvement Projects
• Sign Repair/Replacement
• Awnings
• Improved Retail Window Displays
• Exterior and Interior lighting that can be seen from the street
• Street furniture – tables and chairs, topiaries, string lights, planters and stanchions
Click here for more details about the Facade Improvement Grant Program application process >