Matching Grant | Main Street West Branch

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 $30,000 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...

Application Tools

Begin by reading the Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the MSWB Rising Tide Matching Grant to ensure you do not miss a step in the application process.
Applications are open through November 14, 2025 at Noon.

Step By Step Guide

Design Approval / Sign Permit Application

Grant Application 2.0

Printable applications are also available from the Main Street office.

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.

Exterior Enhancements

Long-lasting exterior repairs like façade upgrades, new awnings, improved lighting, or window/door replacements are eligible.

Permanent Signage

High-quality business signage such as exterior blade signs, window decals for new branding, or other options that align with downtown design standards and help drive traffic to local businesses.

Safety & Accessibility Improvements

Projects that improve safety or accessibility for visitors and customers are eligible.

Limited Interior Enhancements

Interior repairs or upgrades are only eligible if they prepare or enhance an underutilized property to better attract commercial tenants.

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).
Round 1 grant projects must be fully completed by November 2025. Payout before year end. Round 2 projects must be fully completed by May 2026.
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)

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Rising Tide: Downtown Enhancement Matching Grant

Application Tools

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:

Join the E-Mail List

Rising Tide:
Downtown Enhancement Matching Grant

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.