Eat. Shop. Explore. Exit 254.
Historic West Branch, Iowa
(319) 643-7100
RESOURCES FOR OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
Main Street West Branch is dedicated to helping businesses new and old, big and small, from all sectors of our economy access the resources they need to grow and thrive within our community.
LEVEL UP: SMALL BIZ WORKSHOPS
Professional development series designed to empower entrepreneurs and small business owners with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive. Tailored to address the unique challenges of running a business, these workshops provide practical tools, expert insights, and actionable strategies for success. FREE for any business in the Main Street district or $10 for other entrepreneurs.
DOWNTOWN DESIGN APPROVAL & SIGN PERMIT
This process is required for all exterior signage or facade work in the Main Street West Branch Downtown District, per City of West Branch code of ordinances.
We recommend allowing at least 60 days for review and approval. Review the MAIN STREET IOWA RECOMMENDATIONS for signs, awnings and lighting to help ensure your application is approved.
MAIN STREET IOWA CHALLENGE GRANT
The Challenge Grant is a competitive 1:1 matching grant for $25,000-$100,000 that can be used on facade improvements, upper floor interior rehabilitation, structural repairs/improvements, code compliance, first floor interior rehabilitation, energy efficiency/sustainability improvements, and permanent physical improvements to Main Street district properties. Awards are announced each winter.
OPEN FOR BUSINESS GRANT
This grant opportunity is designed to encourage business expansion in Main Street districts. Eligible expenses are inventory, equipment, marketing, computers, software upgrades (etc). Business must provide a 25% match. Awards range from $5k-$25k. A local contest is held in April/May and West Branch's winner competes for state funding with an application due in June, awards in October.
See more details here.
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MAIN STREET IOWA DESIGN ASSISTANCE
MSWB has access to Design Consultants through Main Street Iowa to meet with building owners in the Main Street District to develop a custom conceptual design for potential renovation, reuse or facade restoration projects. This is a free service. Contact Jessi at mainstreetwestbranch@gmail.com if you are interested in this opportunity.
