The Lansing Economic Development Corporation is accepting applications for the 2025 Façade Improvement Program, a grant program designed to assist Lansing businesses in improving the exterior appearance and structural integrity of their buildings. This program, operated by the City of Lansing, aims to support local business owners by providing financial assistance for facade improvements that enhance the aesthetics, safety, and overall street appearance of commercial properties. The program has a total funding allocation of $175,000 for the fiscal year, to be distributed across several grant types based on the scope and scale of the improvements proposed.

There are three types of grants available under the 2025 Façade Improvement Program. Businesses can apply for Aesthetic Facade Improvements, which offer grants of up to $10,000 for exterior cosmetic upgrades. Transformational Improvements, which fund more substantial changes to building facades, offer grants of up to $30,000. Additionally, businesses can apply for a Design Grant, which provides up to $2,000 to cover the costs of professional design services to plan and guide improvements.

The purpose of the program is to help Lansing businesses become more visually appealing and structurally sound, making them more inviting to customers and enhancing the overall streetscape. By improving these properties, the program seeks to increase the value of local businesses and create a more attractive environment for visitors, customers, and the broader community.

The program is open to commercial businesses located within the City of Lansing. The pre-application period runs from January 13, 2025, to March 17, 2025. Completed applications must be submitted by March 31, 2025, to be considered for funding. Applications will be evaluated based on the proposed impact of the improvements, alignment with program goals, and other criteria outlined in the program guidelines.

Businesses interested in applying or seeking additional information can contact Kahleea Washington, Community Development Specialist at the Lansing Economic Development Corporation. She can be reached by phone at 517-512-5122 or by email at Kahleea@lansingedc.com. The Lansing Economic Development Corporation’s office is located at 401 S. Washington Sq., Suite 101, Lansing, MI 48933.