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Grant Funding Opportunity for Downtown Businesses in Kalamazoo

The City of Kalamazoo is excited to announce that it is inviting local downtown businesses to apply for grant funding through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) renowned “Match on Main” program. This initiative aims to empower small businesses in our vibrant downtown area, driving economic growth and community engagement.

Overview of the Match on Main Program

The Match on Main program provides a unique opportunity for small businesses to secure financial support. Under this initiative, the City of Kalamazoo can apply for reimbursement grants of up to $25,000 to support businesses that are either newly established or expanding within downtown Kalamazoo. This funding is designed to enhance the overall atmosphere and economic vitality of our city center, thereby fostering a thriving business community.

Before embarking on this grant application process, city officials emphasize the necessity of identifying two qualified businesses that can benefit from this funding opportunity, with each eligible entity eligible to receive as much as $25,000 in grant assistance.

Benefits of the Match on Main Program

According to city officials, "Match on Main is a competitive reimbursement grant program administered by the MEDC." This program is integral in nurturing place-based businesses that significantly contribute to the vibrant downtown districts. Local governmental entities or downtown development organizations will submit and oversee these applications on behalf of qualifying businesses.

Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To qualify for the Match on Main program, businesses need to meet specific criteria, as outlined by the city:

• The business must be for-profit and headquartered in Michigan.
• It should employ 25 or fewer staff members.
• The business must engage in face-to-face sales of products or services within a traditional downtown area, neighborhood commercial district, or areas with similar zoning.
• Importantly, businesses must not have received funding from the MSF Small Business Relief Program or another Match on Main grant in the past 24 months.

Ineligible Business Categories

City officials also clearly outline the types of businesses that do not qualify for this funding opportunity:

• Non-profit organizations
• Franchises
• Businesses located in strip malls
• Large big-box retailers
• Marijuana-related businesses
• Businesses that have previously received funding from the MSF Small Business Relief Program or Match on Main in the last 24 months

Appropriate Use of Grant Funds

The funds obtained through the Match on Main program can be utilized for various essential purposes, including, but not limited to:

• Providing technical assistance, including service like design consulting and construction planning.
• Conducting interior renovations to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of the space, including improvements to lighting, floors, walls, ceilings, and installation of permanent kitchen equipment.
• Implementing permanent or semi-permanent outdoor enhancements, such as outdoor dining areas or beer gardens, to attract more patrons.
• Covering marketing expenses and upgrading technology—improving websites or e-commerce capabilities, operational changes (like shifting from dine-in to carryout service), acquiring point-of-sale systems, and managing retail inventory effectively.

Application Process and Important Dates

For businesses interested in seizing this opportunity, it is paramount to complete a pre-application form. Additionally, applicants must download and fill out the MEDC Local Business Worksheet. All completed worksheets are to be submitted by email to development@kalamazoocity.org no later than March 28 at 5 p.m.

City officials have stated, "Applications will be reviewed by an evaluative committee comprising representatives from the public, private, and nonprofit sectors." This committee, including local economic development representatives and eligible downtown business stakeholders, will score applications using criteria established by the MEDC, prioritizing businesses in urgent financial need and those that have yet to secure previous financial assistance. It is crucial to understand that submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.

The City of Kalamazoo will notify selected businesses by April 4 before forwarding the full application package to the MEDC for final review. Award recipients will be announced on June 26.

Assistance and Resources

Businesses with questions related to the application process or eligibility can reach out directly to Kevin Ford, Coordinator of Shared Prosperity Kalamazoo, at (269) 337-8322 or via email at development@kalamazoocity.org.

How AI legalese decoder Can Help

Navigating grant applications can be complex, and businesses may find themselves overwhelmed by the legal jargon and criteria. This is where AI legalese decoder can play a crucial role. By simplifying legal language and breaking down the requirements, AI legalese decoder can help entrepreneurs understand the terms and conditions associated with the Match on Main program. It can guide businesses in completing their applications correctly and ensure that all necessary documentation is in order, ultimately increasing their chances of securing the required funding. Utilizing AI legalese decoder can streamline the application process and provide additional support to help local businesses thrive.

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