The Facade Grant

(Exterior Improvements)

Established in late 2021, the Façade Incentive Program was created to help property and business owners enhance the appearance and value of their buildings through financial assistance for exterior improvements.

The Main Street Atmore Façade Incentive Program provides matching funds for eligible exterior improvements only. Funding may be applied to a front, side, or rear façade. The program funds projects up to $7,000 (maximum grant award: $3,500). Applicants are responsible for providing the required matching funds.

Program Details:

• Covers 50% of approved exterior façade improvements up to $7,000
• Maximum grant amount: $3,500
• Funds may be applied to front, side, or rear façades that face a public street or public parking area

Eligible Uses Include:

• Exterior paint on previously painted surfaces.
• Awnings (new, replacement, or additions)
• Door and Window Improvements
• Replacement or Improvement of Signs
• New Façade Applications to Damaged Areas
• Renovations Complementing Historic Characteristics
• Architectural Feature Restoration or Replacement
• Landscape Design: landscape, irrigation, planters, plants, and trees.
  

Program Impact:

• $106,742 awarded in façade grants
• 43 buildings improved
• $336,596 total invested in downtown façade enhancements

Terms:

• The business must be a current Main Street Atmore member in good standing.
• Grants are approved on a calendar-year basis. If a project has not received funding this year, the business/building may reapply.
• All grant applications are reviewed by the Design Review Committee, which submits funding recommendations to the Main Street Atmore Board.
• Projects must receive approval from the Main Street Atmore Board before any work begins. 
• Projects must be completed within (6) months of approval. MSA Board may grant extensions for delays related to materials or demonstrated hardship.
• Applications must include all required documentation and approvals.
• Renovations may require Historic Preservation approval before funding approval.
• Grants are reimbursed only after all approved work is completed, and proper documentation has been submitted and verified.
• Main Street Atmore reserves the right to require additional improvements as a condition of approval 
• Participation in Main Street Required; Opportunities: be a committee member, involvement in Sales events such as First Thursday, or volunteer 8 hours at MSA events. 

This program supports Main Street Atmore’s mission to revitalize downtown, promote historic preservation, and encourage private investment in the community’s core.