Wisconsin grant program aims to fill vacancies downtown
Aug. 10—The Northwest Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission is working with the state to provide $10,000 grants to businesses that are helping revitalize downtowns and commercial corridors by moving into vacant properties.
Through the Main Street Bounceback Grant Program, qualifying businesses can receive a grant to help set up in a commercial space.
"We know it takes a lot for a new business or organization to open their first space, or for an existing business to expand," said Crystal Rohde, business development specialist at NWRPC.
New businesses that are opening a new location or existing businesses that are expanding operations that lease or purchase a vacant commercial space between Jan. 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, may be eligible for the grant. A copy of the lease or purchase agreement reflecting the date range is required for the application process. Businesses renewing a lease or moving from a different location are not eligible for the grant.
Grant funds can be used for lease or mortgage payments, operating expenses, building repairs, tenant improvements and other eligible expenses. Residential uses and storage spaces are not eligible expenses.
Applications from businesses in Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Douglas, Iron, Price, Rusk, Taylor and Washburn counties will be reviewed, administered and funded by Northwest Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission.
Grant applications, eligibility requirements and guidance are available at www.nwrpc.com/mainstreetgrant.
Businesses have until June 30, 2022, to lease or purchase a vacant property to qualify, but grant funds are limited so funding may run out before then, Rohde said.
