Community Façade Grant Program

The Community Façade Grant Program is a local funding initiative administered by the Greater Biloxi Economic Development Foundation (GBEDF), in collaboration with Mississippi Power and the City of Biloxi. This program targets commercial revitalization in designated areas of Biloxi, Mississippi—specifically the Pass Road and Division Street corridors—by incentivizing physical improvements to commercial building facades. The overarching goal is to stimulate private investment that enhances the visual appearance and economic vitality of key commercial areas through targeted financial support. This grant offers reimbursement for 50% of approved improvement costs, up to a maximum award of $5,000 per project. Eligible costs include a wide range of façade improvements such as architectural design, storefront windows and door replacements, awnings, exterior lighting, signage integrated into the façade, murals, ironwork, railings, and features that improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. However, certain expenses are not covered—such as rear or alley façade work not visible from major streets, residential property upgrades, roof repairs, work conducted by the applicant as a contractor (including profits and overhead), and freestanding signs. To qualify, applicants must meet several conditions: properties must be located within the specified corridors and serviced by Mississippi Power; buildings must be either occupied or on track for occupancy with relevant permits (e.g., Certificate of Occupancy) secured within six months of application. Additionally, applicants must possess a valid business license, be current on all taxes and permits, and comply with local and state regulations. If the applicant is a tenant rather than the property owner, they must submit a signed and notarized letter of permission from the property owner along with the application. The application process requires submission of a fully completed form along with supporting documentation, including a project budget, contractor and material estimates, proof of ownership or lease, landlord permission (if applicable), and before photographs. All submissions must be sent via email to the GBEDF at GreaterBiloxiEDF@gmail.com. Applications are reviewed competitively and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with emphasis placed on economic impact. The review process can take up to 60 days, and funding is subject to availability. Upon approval, grant recipients are expected to complete the proposed work within six months, as outlined in the Grant Agreement. Extensions may be granted at the discretion of the Façade Grant Review Committee (FGRC). Once the work is completed, grantees must submit itemized receipts for all eligible costs and provide after-photos to document the improvements. Verified submissions will result in disbursement of funds within 30 days. The Community Façade Grant Program operates as a non-recurring, rolling opportunity without fixed annual deadlines, continuing only while funds remain available. The final authority on all awards lies with the FGRC, whose decisions are considered final.

Submit early to increase chance of award; incomplete applications may be rejected