GAINESVILLE EDC AIMS TO ENCOURAGE BIGGER INVESTMENTS IN DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION EFFORTS

GAINESVILLE, Texas – Deciding to go BIG can now bring in even more matching funds! Following a relaunch of the Business Improvement Grant (BIG) program, building and business owners in historic Downtown Gainesville may now be eligible for even bigger reimbursements for qualified façade improvements. 
A refreshed storefront pays dividends by helping local businesses attract more customers and elevate their brand. Gainesville’s grant program offsets costs associated with updating the building in the form of a reimbursable grant that matches 50% of eligible improvement costs up to $25,000. Properties must be commercially zoned and in the Central Area Commercial District to qualify.

The grant is now based more equitably on building square footage. For larger buildings this could result in a larger reimbursement. When we introduced our BIG program in 2022, the top grant was $7,500 per property. Gainesville Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) aims to invest $125,000 in downtown revitalization efforts in the current fiscal year and generate even more impact next year. 

“We are confident these program enhancements will spur additional reinvestment, restoration and redevelopment of our many existing buildings which have fantastic architectural features,” said GEDC Executive Director, Williams Myers. “We also believe that improvements to building exteriors and storefronts will continue to have a positive impact on existing businesses while also recruiting new business to Gainesville.”  

In addition to complete façade rehabilitation, several other property improvements are eligible for funding. The replacement of window frames, broken storefront glass, the installation of commercial grade doors, exterior lighting improvements, masonry repairs, historical signage restoration and the addition or replacement of ADA compliant entryways, are among eligible improvements. Importantly, the grant program now requires that all code violations be addressed through the City of Gainesville before payout occurs.

Chad Henderson previously received two BIG grants for completed work on transom windows and awnings on his building.

“The new BIG grant amount of 25k is a real needle mover for business and building owners. Improving the visual aesthetic along with the energy efficiency of a historic building can feel like a daunting task, especially for a larger storefront,” Chad remarked. “I have no doubt the increased funding levels will be the difference in owners deciding whether or not to invest in building enhancements.”

Grant Application Process

Grant seekers must fill out an application and cannot begin work until the application is approved by the GEDC Board of Directors. Existing approved façade projects will be eligible for the higher match. The Board will vet all applications and vote whether to approve, deny, ask for more information, or request changes within 30 days of presentation. Upon approval by the Board, project improvements must be completed within 18 months, unless an amended timeline is approved. To find out more about program eligibility, interested parties can view a brochure or application on our website at www.gainesvilletxedc.com or call the GEDC at (940) 665-5241. 

Contact: William Myers
Executive Director, Gainesville EDC
940-665-5241