Facade Grant Program

The City of Newaygo administers the Property Improvement Grant Program, aimed at revitalizing and enhancing the built environment within the city's designated Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) and Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) districts. This program is funded and governed by the City of Newaygo TIFA/LDFA Board and is intended to support the city's broader economic development goals, aligning with strategic frameworks such as the City Master Plan and Parks & Recreation Plan. The program prioritizes physical improvements to commercial and mixed-use properties that enhance architectural integrity and aesthetic appeal, ultimately strengthening the economic vitality of the area. The grant operates on a competitive matching basis, offering reimbursement of up to 50 percent of eligible project costs. Property owners and leaseholders within the TIFA/LDFA districts may apply, with priority given to applicants who have not previously received funding. Funded improvements must be permanent, code-compliant, and focused on external building enhancements such as façade repairs, masonry restoration, replacement of windows or doors, installation of awnings or marquees, and permanent landscaping. Non-permanent upgrades, signage, or retroactive reimbursements for work already completed are explicitly excluded from eligibility. Applications must be submitted before quarterly deadlines on February 28, May 31, August 31, and November 30. Reviews are conducted quarterly by the TIFA/LDFA Board's grant review committee, with funding decisions made contingent on available budget allocations. The overall funding pool is updated each fiscal year, starting July 1, and funds may be reallocated at the Board's discretion. Projects must be completed within one year of award, although extensions may be granted upon request. Following award approval, grantees must execute a formal agreement, which may be recorded with the county, committing to preserve the funded improvements for at least five years. Reimbursements are issued only after full project completion and approval by city staff, including submission of itemized expenses, proof of payment, lien waivers, and photographic documentation. All necessary city inspections and approvals must be finalized prior to disbursement. Eligible applicants must be in good standing with the City, including up-to-date payments for taxes, permits, and fees. The program is reimbursement-based and requires a complete, one-time submission of all final documentation for payment. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the City of Newaygo via email at [email protected] or by phone at 231-652-1657 to confirm district eligibility and begin the application process. Further details are available in the downloadable program guidelines.

Ensure full documentation is submitted in one package and project is 100% complete before reimbursement.