Business Façade Grant Program

The Business Façade Grant Program offered by the City of DeBary is designed to revitalize and enhance the external appearance of commercial properties within key areas of the city. This program aligns with the city's broader goals to support local businesses, improve visual appeal, and foster a vibrant commercial environment. In its inaugural year, the program specifically targets properties located within the Village Center Overlay District and the Highbanks Node Area, both of which have frontage or visibility from US Highway 17-92 or Highbanks Road. Eligible businesses must also possess a valid Business Tax Receipt (BTR) from the City of DeBary, ensuring active local commercial engagement. The grant program is structured as a 50/50 matching reimbursement initiative. This means that once a project is completed and approved by the city, applicants may be reimbursed for up to 50% of the eligible costs associated with their improvement efforts. Funding is derived from Business Tax Receipts paid by DeBary businesses, ensuring that program dollars are reinvested directly into the local commercial landscape. The program is expected to expand citywide in future years as additional funds become available, making this an initial opportunity primarily for businesses in the aforementioned districts. Eligible improvements under the grant include visible exterior enhancements such as façade repairs, exterior painting, the installation or repair of windows, doors, awnings, canopies, exterior lighting, signage compliant with city codes, and murals or approved public art. Additionally, projects that address ADA compliance, parking, site improvements, and landscaping are also supported. However, certain expenditures are ineligible, including roof replacement, interior renovations, routine maintenance, and fees associated with permits, design, or engineering. The program explicitly excludes work completed prior to grant approval, as well as non-permanent furnishings. The application process is straightforward and accessible. Interested businesses may apply either online or by submitting a printed application in person at DeBary City Hall during standard business hours. Applicants are encouraged to review the grant guidelines and confirm eligibility before submitting. A complete application includes photos and cost estimates, which will be reviewed by city staff within 30 business days. Projects must receive formal approval before work begins, and once initiated, must be completed within 180 days. Afterward, the applicant may submit documentation to request reimbursement. The program is designed to be inclusive yet location-specific. Tenants may apply with written permission from property owners, and buildings with multiple street frontages are permitted to apply for multiple façades. To ensure fairness and responsible funding, businesses must be current on taxes and free from code violations. Moreover, the program’s staged reimbursement allows partial reimbursements during construction to ease financial burdens. All inquiries related to the program should be directed to Merylene Thomas, the City of DeBary's Senior Planner. She may be contacted via email at [email protected] or by phone at 386-601-0204. The application cycle for this initial year opened on January 1, 2026. No closing date has been publicly stated, indicating a potentially rolling application basis until funds are exhausted. Additional grant-related documents, including application forms, authorization affidavits, and reimbursement agreements, are accessible via the city's official program page.