Rising Tide:
Downtown Enhancement Matching Grant
Main Street West Branch is excited to offer this limited-time Matching Grant Opportunity in 2025. The funding is part of MSWB's Rising Tide Initiative, a four-pronged program funded by a generous grant we secured from the Iowa Rural Development Council and the Wells Fargo Foundation. We plan to pass along $20,000 in funding to businesses in our Main Street district to encourage enhancements that elevate the "downtown experience" in West Branch! Here's what you need to know now...
Eligible Projects:
To qualify, your business or commercial property must be located within the MSWB downtown district, and the project must take place there. Priority will be given to highly visible projects that make a noticeable impact.
Key Requirements:
-
To qualify, your business or commercial property must be located within the MSWB downtown district, and the project must take place there. Priority will be given to highly visible projects that make a noticeable impact.
-
Projects must comply with all local ordinances, including approved design, colors, and materials.
-
Applicants must provide a 50% match for the project cost.
-
The maximum award is $3,000, reimbursed upon project completion (submit invoices and photos).
-
All projects must be fully completed by November 2025. Payout before year end.
-
You’ll need to submit a simple application including a basic project rendering, cost estimate, timeline, and written permission from the property owner.\\\
Bonus points may be awarded for these type of encouraged engagement:
-
Applicants that operate a business open to walk-in customers at least four days a week
-
Applicants that volunteer on Main Street West Branch committees
-
Applicants that have made a donation to support MSWB’s mission this year (in-kind or monetary)