Facade Grant Program

The Long Beach Main Street Facade Improvement Grant Program is a collaborative initiative between Long Beach Main Street and the Mississippi Power Foundation. This grant program is part of the city's broader efforts to promote economic vitality, preserve historic character, and support small business growth through strategic investments in downtown Long Beach. The program encourages both property owners and commercial tenants to improve the exterior appearance of their buildings located within the Long Beach city limits. It aligns with Long Beach Main Street’s mission of enhancing the community through design, economic development, and revitalization efforts using the nationally recognized Main Street Approach. The Facade Improvement Grant Program offers financial assistance of up to $2,000 per project for eligible exterior improvements. Applicants are required to contribute a 25% match, demonstrating a shared investment in the revitalization efforts. Improvements that qualify for funding include pressure washing, window cleaning, minor exterior repairs (such as brickwork or stucco), exterior painting, lighting upgrades, installation or restoration of awnings and canopies, signage updates, murals, landscaping enhancements, and restoration of architectural features. All proposed changes must comply with city ordinances and permitting requirements, and any mural installations require pre-approval of the concept and design. To be eligible for the program, applicants must be either the property owner or a commercial tenant with written approval from the property owner. Additionally, the property must be located within the Long Beach city limits, be zoned for commercial use, and be current on all city and county taxes. Furthermore, the applicant must be a current and active supporter of Long Beach Main Street with dues paid in full. This emphasis on engagement with the Main Street program ensures that funded projects align with the city’s larger development strategies. The application process requires several components, including a detailed project description, photographs of the current façade, contractor quotes or material estimates, proof of ownership or owner authorization, verification of tax status, zoning confirmation, and visual renderings or sketches of the proposed improvements. Completed applications must be submitted either in person at the Long Beach Main Street Office at 201 Jeff Davis Avenue or electronically via email to [email protected]. The submission deadline is December 30th at 5:00 PM. All applications will be reviewed by the Long Beach Main Street Facade Grant Committee, which will make final funding decisions at its discretion. Reimbursement is provided only after project completion and upon submission and approval of final receipts. Applicants are required to agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Long Beach Main Street program and its partners from any claims related to the grant funds' use. The program does not require any pre-application process or Letter of Intent, streamlining access for eligible applicants. Program contacts include Courtney Welch, Executive Director of Long Beach Main Street, who can be reached via email at [email protected] or phone at 228-297-2191. Interested applicants are encouraged to reach out for guidance or clarification as needed.