Program Guidelines
Façade Improvement Program 2026-2027
Program Objective
The intent of the Façade Improvement Program is to strengthen the economic viability of Lansing’s commercial corridors by providing targeted assistance to improve the appearance and structural conditions of commercial buildings within the city of Lansing.
Awards & Funding
The Façade Improvement Program may provide grant funds for improvements to facades of commercial buildings within the city of Lansing. Beginning August 24, 2026, applications will be accepted on a rolling basis, and awards will be made as funding is available.
Eligibility
To be eligible to participate in the program, the property must be located within the city of Lansing boundaries. The property must be zoned for commercial business and the intended use, and currently operating a business or undergoing renovations for the opening of a business. Businesses leasing space can apply with notarized, written permission from the property owner. All applicants must be in good standing with respect to all local, state, and federal taxes. Business owner and tenant must be current on all city of Lansing obligations.
In order to be eligible for funding, no improvements can begin prior to grant funding approval and execution of a grant agreement.
Eligible Grant Expenditures
In general, improvements that rehabilitate building features of the façade are eligible: masonry repair or cleaning, cornice repair, exterior painting and stucco, window and door repair or replacement, repair/replacement of gutters and down spouts, visible roof repairs and foundation work in conjunction with structural improvements, visible electrical, mechanical equipment enclosures, awnings and canopies, permanent exterior lighting and signage integrated into the storefront design, removal of non-contributing false facades, restoration of doors, windows, building features, relocation and installation of new window and doors, installation of exterior lighting and landscaping, replacement of sidewalks, screening of service areas.
Features focused on the street facing façade will be prioritized. In some limited cases, when a façade is publicly visible, such as abutting an activated alleyway or river/river trail facing, updates to the rear façade may be eligible. Storefront improvements require compliance with barrier-free design elements.
Grant Opportunities
Strategic Property Grant - $50,000
Transformative improvements in highly visible, defined commercial corridors These grants include substantial investment in strategic properties that have been deemed as a priority by both the LEDC and the applicable corridor authority and/or commercial association for their potential to generate significant economic impact, eliminate blight, and advance broader community objectives such as comprehensive exterior building rehabilitation, historic façade restoration, structural exterior improvements that improve functionality and accessibility.
At least 25% cash match required.
Transformational Grant – Awards up to $30,000
Substantial transformations include but are not limited to removal of non-contributing false facades, restoration of doors, windows, building features, relocation and installation of new window and doors in new locations, and installation of exterior lighting and landscaping if included under this category. To qualify, the building must undergo significant alterations/rehabilitation that substantially change/restore the façade of the building.
At least 25% cash match required.
Aesthetic Grant – Awards up to $10,000
Façade projects that consist of limited improvements including signage, paint, window/door repair, lighting, and entryways.
At least 25% cash match required.
Design Grant – Awards up to $5,000
For the development of renderings/façade designs and material specifications to assist with the upfront costs to prepare for future façade improvements. Further architectural/engineering costs related to the façade that are beyond the award are the responsibility of the applicant but may be approved as much for future grant award. Pre-application and commitment to façade improvement is required. Design awardees are not guaranteed additional funding and will be considered on a first-come-first-served basis.
No cash match required.
Application & Review Process
To be considered for the grant, applicants must submit an application through the portal on the Lansing EDC’s website (lansingedc.com). Completed applications will be evaluated on an ongoing basis, and awards will be made as funding is available.
The Application must include:
· A detailed description of the proposed improvements, supporting materials, such as drawings or other materials that represent the scope and intent of the project improvements.
· A detailed line-item budget.
· The project schedule.
· A signed affidavit stating that the applicant nor property owner have any pending litigation against and/or obligations to the city of Lansing.
· A signed Treasury Information Request form stating that neither the applicant nor property owner is/are not delinquent on any debts owed to the city of Lansing.
· If applicable, a notarized letter of permission from the property owner along with proof of legitimate ownership (i.e., copy of Registered Deed).
Preliminary Review
A preliminary review of applications will be evaluated on completeness of the application materials submitted and adherence to the design guide. Satisfactory applications will be considered for formal approval. Incomplete applications will be denied and will require revisions for reconsideration.
Formal Review
Applications that pass the preliminary review phase will be awarded on first-come-first-served basis. The amount of funding will depend upon the funding category the application was approved under, the number of eligible applications, the quality of the project, and the visual impact of the project.
The Lansing EDC reserves the right to approve and reject any and all applications or award partial funding. Phased funding may be available based on availability of funding and impact of project.
A Façade Design Committee will evaluate each application utilizing an 80-point scale. The evaluation categories include:
· The façade project’s details and feasibility.
· The façade project’s approach: Restoration, Rehabilitation, and Replacement (see the design guidelines for more details).
· Is the façade project public-facing and does it enhance the area?
· Is the proposed façade project attractive and aesthetically pleasing?
Permits & Approvals
Improvements are subject to standard city of Lansing and state of Michigan approvals, as required based on project needs. All improvements must be in compliance with all applicable State and Local laws, ordinances and rules, or will result in compliance with State and Local laws, ordinances and rules. Depending on how extensive the work is, permits may be required for structural repairs. Any new signs will require a sign permit. Please visit: https://www.lansingmi.gov/permits for information on permits.
The Michigan Avenue Corridor Improvement Authority’s (MACIA) Business Grant has been established to provide access to capital for small businesses within the corridor’s boundaries. By providing financial resources, this grant opportunity is dedicated to supporting projects that strengthen businesses' appearance and sustainability along the corridor. PROGRAM OBJECTIVE The core objective of the MACIA Business Grants is to support businesses within the MACIA boundaries by providing access to capital. This financial support is intended to fuel projects that not only foster immediate business sustainability but also propel substantial growth. ELIGIBLE EXPENSES Eligible expenses include the following: · Exterior improvements · Physical marketing and advertising · Equipment purchases (maintenance and operation needs) · Health and safety measures (Example: ADA compliance) · Match dollar for other grants AWARD AMOUNT Grant awards will range between $1,000 and $10,000. Each grant will require a 25% match/buy-in from the applicant.
Award amounts will be based on the strength of the project proposal, project impact, demonstrated need, and available funds. All awards will be determined at the sole discretion of the MACIA.
Awards are provided on a competitive basis due to limited resources. In order to be considered for the MACIA Business Grants, applicants must meet each of the eligibility criteria described below:
Small business:
· Small businesses are defined as firms with a size of 50 employees or less and total gross revenue per year of $1.5 million or less.
· For-profit business based in the City of Lansing's Michigan Avenue Corridor boundaries. To identify if your business is located in the corridor’s boundaries, visit Corridor Boundaries
Must not be one of the following business types:
- Check cashing/payday advance
- Adult stores/services
- Packaged Liquor retailer
- Store that sells firearms
- Marijuana operations of any kind
- Storage facilities
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Lansing Gateway Corridor Improvement Authority’s (LGCIA) Business Grant has been established to provide access to capital for small businesses within the corridor’s boundaries. By providing financial resources, this grant opportunity is dedicated to supporting projects that strengthen businesses' appearance and sustainability along the corridor.
Corridor Boundaries: Lansing Gateway Corridor Map - Google My Maps.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE
The core objective of the LGCIA Business Grants is to support businesses within the LGCIA boundaries by providing access to capital. This financial support is intended to fuel projects that not only foster immediate business sustainability but also propel substantial growth.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Eligible expenses include the following:
• Exterior improvements
• Physical marketing and advertising
• Equipment purchases (focus on maintenance needs)
• Health and safety measures (Example: ADA compliance)
• Match dollar for other grants
AWARD AMOUNT
Grant awards will range between $1,000 and $10,000. Each grant will require a 25% match/buy-in from the applicant.
Award amounts will be based on the strength of the project proposal, project impact, demonstrated need, and available funds. All awards will be determined at the sole discretion of the LGCIA.
Awards are provided on a competitive basis due to limited resources. In order to be considered for the LG CIA Business Grants, applicants must meet each of the eligibility criteria described below:
Small business:
•Small businesses are defined as firms with a size of 50 employees or less and total gross revenue per year of $1.5 million or less.
•For-profit business based in the City of Lansing's Lansing Gateway Corridor boundaries. To identify if your business is located in the corridor’s boundaries, visit https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/1/edit?mid=19F8MzXWScVF7rxeSRHrOnSTihhx8doM&usp=sharing
•Must not be one of the following business types:
- Check cashing/payday advance
- Adult stores/services
- Packaged Liquor retailer
- Store that sells firearms
- Marijuana operations of any kind
- Storage facilities
APPLICANT EVALUATION
Businesses will be evaluated on the following criteria:
· Project Plan: Clarity and completeness of the project plan.
· Sustainability/Growth: How the project aligns with long-term business sustainability and the likelihood of the project leading to business growth.
· Capacity & Expertise: Demonstrated capacity to execute the project efficiently. Demonstrated qualifications and experience of the project team.
· Financial Stability: Evidence of financial stability and responsible resource
management.
· Compliance: Evidence of ability to adhere to program regulations and guidelines in the use of funds.
*Applicants may be asked to provide basic financial information to provide early indication of financial feasibility.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW The South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Corridor Improvement Authority’s (S.MLK CIA) Business Grant has been established to provide access to capital for small businesses within the corridor’s boundaries. By providing financial resources, this grant opportunity is dedicated to supporting projects that strengthen businesses' sustainability along the corridor.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE The core objective of the S. MLK CIA Business Grants is to support businesses within the S. MLK CIA boundaries by providing access to capital. This financial support is intended to fuel projects that not only foster immediate business sustainability but also propel substantial growth.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES Eligible expenses include the following:
- Inventory and supplies
- Exterior improvements
- Software subscriptions
- Marketing and advertising
- Equipment purchases
- Health and safety measures
- Match dollar for other grants
AWARD AMOUNT Grant awards will range between $1,000 and $10,000. Award amounts will be based on the strength of the project proposal, project impact, demonstrated need, and available funds. All awards will be determined at the sole discretion of the S. MLK CIA. Awards are provided on a competitive basis due to limited resources. In order to be considered for the
S. MLK CIA Business Grants, applicants must meet each of the eligibility criteria described below:
Small business: · Small businesses are defined as firms with a size of 50 employees or less and total gross revenue per year of $1.5 million or less.
For-profit and select non-profits business based in the City of Lansing's South Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Corridor boundaries.
To identify if your business is located in the corridor’s boundaries, visit Corridor Boundaries
Must not be one of the following business types:
- Check cashing/payday advance
- Adult stores/services
- Packaged Liquor retailer
- Store that sells firearms
- Marijuana operations of any kind
- Storage facilities
APPLICATION PROCESS
· Submission: Businesses must submit a complete application, including a project proposal, detailed project budget, financial statements, and additional information as requested.
· Review: A panel of reviewers will evaluate each eligible and complete application based on the criteria outlined below.
· Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited to present their business and project idea to the board. This will be their opportunity to provide additional information or clarification.
· Selection: Grants will be awarded based on the application's score and available funding.
· Award Process: Upon selection, awardees will be notified and sent Grant Agreements providing terms and conditions of receiving the grant funds.
· Once Awarded: The business must give a testimonial for the S.MLK CIA’s website
APPLICANT EVALUATION
Businesses will be evaluated on the following criteria:
· Project Plan: Clarity and completeness of the project plan.
· Sustainability/Growth: How the project aligns with long-term business sustainability and the likelihood of the project leading to business growth.
· Capacity & Expertise: Demonstrated capacity to execute the project efficiently. Demonstrated qualifications and experience of the project team.
· Financial Stability: Evidence of financial stability and responsible resource
management.
· Compliance: Evidence of ability to adhere to program regulations and guidelines in the use of funds.
*Applicants may be asked to provide basic financial information to provide early indication of financial feasibility.
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Saginaw Street Corridor Improvement Authority’s (SSCIA) Business Grant has been established to provide access to capital for properties within the corridor’s boundaries. By providing financial resources, this grant opportunity is dedicated to supporting projects that strengthen businesses' appearance and sustainability along the corridor.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVE
The core objective of the SSCIA Business Grants is to support businesses within the SSCIA boundaries by providing access to capital. This financial support is intended to fuel projects that not only foster immediate business sustainability but also propel substantial growth.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Eligible Expenses Include:
- Exterior and structural improvements
- Physical marketing and advertising
- Equipment purchases (focus on maintenance needs)
- Health and safety measures (Example: ADA compliance)
- Match dollar for other grants
AWARD AMOUNT
Grant awards will range between $1,000 and $10,000.
Award amounts will be based on the strength of the project proposal, project impact, demonstrated need, and available funds. All awards will be determined at the sole discretion of the SSCIA. Awards are provided on a competitive basis due to limited resources. In order to be considered for the
SSCIA Business Grant Eligibility
Awards are provided on a competitive basis due to limited resources. In order to be considered for the SSCIA Business Grants, applicants must meet the eligibility criteria described below:
Commercial Properties based in the City of Lansing's Saginaw Street Corridor boundaries including for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, and multi-unit residential proprties. To identify if your business is located in the corridor’s boundaries, Visit: W. Saginaw St Corridor - Google My Maps
Application Process:
- Submission: Businesses must submit a complete application, including a project proposal, detailed project budget, financial statements, and additional information as requested.
- Review: A panel of reviewers will evaluate each eligible and complete application based on the criteria outlined below.
- Interview: Shortlisted applicants may be invited to present their business and project idea to the board. This will be their opportunity to provide additional information or clarification.
- Selection: Grants will be awarded based on the application's score and available funding.
- Award Process: Upon selection, awardees will be notified and sent Grant Agreements providing terms and conditions of receiving the grant funds.
- Once Awarded: The business must give a testimonial for the SSCIA’s website
- Businesses will be evaluated on the following criteria:
- Project Plan: Clarity and completeness of the project plan.
- Sustainability/Growth: How the project aligns with long-term business sustainability and the likelihood of the project leading to business growth.
- Capacity & Expertise: Demonstrated capacity to execute the project efficiently. Demonstrated qualifications and experience of the project team.
- Financial Stability: Evidence of financial stability and responsible resource
- management.
- Compliance: Evidence of ability to adhere to program regulations and guidelines in the use of funds.
The SSCIA Mural Program partners with local businesses to bring vibrant, large-scale murals and other art projects to the West Saginaw Street corridor. By showcasing the work of local artists, the program aims to energize the corridor, celebrate creativity, and establish West Saginaw Street as Lansing’s official Mural District.
Through this initiative, the SSCIA provides funding and resources, including connections to local muralists and artists, to support businesses interested in hosting projects on their properties.
View the full guidelines here: https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:49183b28-4119-4777-8d9c-1d5c6281ce93
Eligible Applicants
To qualify for the SSCIA Mural Program, applicants must meet all of the following:
• Be a business or organization located within the SSCIA boundaries. Confirm eligibility here: W. Saginaw St Corridor - Google My Maps
• Be in good standing on all City of Lansing, State of Michigan, and federal taxes.
Mural Sponsorship
Businesses may apply for $5,000–$20,000 in funding to sponsor the installation of a mural. Awards are intended to cover artist compensation and materials. Any additional expenses are the responsibility of the business.
Applicants may:
• Recruit their own artist, or request SSCIA’s assistance in hosting a call to artists in partnership with the Arts Council of Greater Lansing.
All mural concepts must be presented to the SSCIA during a monthly board meeting. The SSCIA reserves the right to deny funding for projects that do not align with the Authority’s goals and vision.