MILTON — The application process is now open for Main Street Milton Business Improvement Program for downtown businesses. This program provides commercial property and companies an opportunity to apply for grants or loans for façade improvements, signage, landscaping, infrastructure and business start-up/expansion expenses.
The program provides funding to upgrade the appearance of properties, increase property values, and stimulate economic activity within the Main Street Milton service area and Milton’s Community Redevelopment Area. BIP is available to property owners or business tenants only.
Funds are awarded in three categories:
Sign grant
Up to $500 can be used exclusively for new ore replacement business exterior signage. No match is required.
Commercial façade grant
Up to $2,500 can be used for improvements to the exterior façade of a building. A 100 percent match is required.
Business micro-loan
Up to $5,000 can be used for items like commercial façade improvements, equipment and signage. A 100 percent match is required and 20 percent of the loan is forgiven annually.
Examples of eligible items include:
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ADA Handicapped Access
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New Windows and doors
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Exterior Lighting
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Exterior Painting
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Minor Landscaping
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Restoration of Architectural Features
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Screening/Fencing
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Sprinkler Systems
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Parking Improvements
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New or Replacement Awnings
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Signage
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Soft Costs (architect/engineer costs, licenses, fees) Limited to 20% of award
Examples of ineligibiel items include:
- Rent
- Interior modifications and/o rrehabilitation (matching funds may be used for interior project costs)
- Refinancing existing debt
- Owner-perfroemd labor (unless the owner is a duly licensed contractor)
Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. However, preference will be given based on the following criteria: first-time applicants, applicants with projects along Caroline and Willing Streets, projects in historically significant structures, and/or projects creating a minimum of five full-time positions within the first year.
For more information or an application contact Main Street Milton at 564-1647 or email Executive Director Ed Spears at espears@miltonfl.org.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Main Street Milton now taking applications for Business Improvement Program