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Grant Opportunities for Small Businesses in Decatur

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — As the excitement builds for the World Cup, the city of Decatur is stepping up its support for local small businesses by offering substantial grant money. These financial resources are specifically designed to help businesses enhance their facilities and marketing efforts as they prepare to welcome potential fans and visitors.

Types of Available Grants

The city is rolling out an impressive program featuring three distinct categories of grants aimed at commercial enhancement. These include:

1. Commercial Facade Improvement Grants
2. Commercial Buildout Improvement Grants
3. Marketing and Digital Connectivity Grants

A generous total of $200,000 has been earmarked for these initiatives in the new fiscal year commencing July 1, 2025. Notably, the grants will cover up to 75% of the costs associated with approved projects, making them a valuable financial incentive for local businesses striving to improve their properties and services.

Early Successes of the Grant Program

The Decatur Downtown Development Authority has already made significant strides, awarding $113,316 in grants to 19 businesses. This early implementation demonstrates the commitment of both the city and the community to uplift local enterprises.

Spotlight on Benefiting Businesses

Two businesses particularly benefiting from the grant program are Smiley’s Burger Club and Kelly’s Market, both located on Howard Avenue. With the financial aid received, Smiley’s has successfully remodeled its front space, enhancing its curb appeal, while also ramping up efforts for online marketing to reach a broader audience.

Meanwhile, next door at Kelly’s Market, grant funds were utilized to install a new front door, showcasing how even minor improvements can make a significant impact on a business’s overall attractiveness.

“It was a relief and took a lot of stress out of our planning with our partners for Kelly’s. It enabled us to do something that maybe we weren’t able to afford on our own," stated Sean Crotty, part-owner of both Smiley’s Burgers and Kelly’s Market and president of the Decatur Business Association.

Crotty went on to emphasize the visible improvements around Decatur, illustrating the program’s positive impact.

Sharing Success Stories

Sean Crotty expressed how these successes empower other businesses in the area. “For us to be able to communicate that to our members, to show off some of the results, to our other members and say, ‘Yes, you can do this. You can get that done,’” he said, emphasizing the role of community support in these achievements.

Another recipient, Glide Pizza, located on Ponce de Leon Avenue, received a grant that allowed them to enhance their operations. Owner Rob Birdsong mentioned, “Every dollar counts,” further underscoring the importance of these grants in fostering business growth. They invested $10,000 in construction to expand their kitchen and add essential facilities like restrooms and an arcade, turning their venue into a more attractive destination for customers.

“So it really was a big help to get us over the finish line,” Birdsong reflected, revealing how these funds made a difference during financially tight moments.

The Impact on Community Events

One of the primary aims of these grants is to prepare Decatur for its upcoming month-long World Cup Watch Fest. This highly anticipated city-hosted event will kick off with a performance by Outkast’s Big Boi at Decatur Square, amplifying the excitement around the tournament. Furthermore, a closing ceremony will feature local favorites, Indigo Girls, while matches will be showcased on a newly constructed video wall at the square.

Birdsong remarked on his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It’s going to be super duper fun! We love Big Boi, we love the Indigo Girls. It’s great to be here in a vibrant downtown Decatur!”

A Community Call to Action

Both Crotty and Birdsong invite patrons and visitors to come to Decatur. “We’re excited to show it off and are looking good. For patrons that are going to the game, play, eat in Decatur, hop on the MARTA and get down to Mercedes-Benz to check out a match,” Crotty declared, highlighting the synergy between local businesses and the broader community during this exciting time.

Application Process for Interested Businesses

For businesses interested in applying for the grants, applications are open until January 23. To qualify, businesses must hold a valid license, be current on their taxes, and complete an application detailing their intended project, the benefits to their business and the community, and how the grant will assist them in achieving these goals.

Overall Contributions of the Program

Since its launch in 2023, this grant program has provided over $580,000 to local businesses in downtown Decatur, significantly aiding in their growth and contribution to the community.

Leveraging AI legalese decoder

In navigating the grant application process, AI legalese decoder can be a valuable tool for small businesses. This AI-powered resource assists users in deciphering complex legal language, ensuring that business owners fully understand the terms, conditions, and requirements associated with grant applications. By breaking down intricate legal jargon into simpler, accessible language, AI legalese decoder empowers entrepreneurs to confidently apply for grants, enhancing their chances of obtaining financial support for their projects. Whether it’s clarifying requirements or enabling better comprehension of the application process, this tool provides essential assistance to burgeoning businesses in Decatur.

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