Retail Business Innovation Grant

The GR Forward community planning process revealed considerable demand for creative strategies and partnerships that effectively and measurably increase the diversity, vibrancy, and density of retail selections in Downtown Grand Rapids while strengthening its economy.

With these goals in mind, the Retail Business Incubation Program, a geographically-targeted grant funded by the Downtown Development Authority, seeks to support retail businesses, emphasizing women and minority-owned local businesses.

To apply, please fill out the application. Paper applications are also available at DGRI's offices at 29 Pearl St NW #1.

See full policy here: Downtown Retail Business Innovation Grant 9.1.23 (PDF)

Landlord Statement Template (Word Doc)

Applications are reviewed on a quarterly basis and awarded on a quarterly basis, to reset quarterly. Please allow 5 business days for a response.

Collaborative Marketing Grant

To further promote Downtown as an active retail destination, Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) supports the collaborative efforts of businesses in the development and implementation of robust multi-platform, well-designed marketing & advertising strategies for their combined activities and by extension themselves.

To apply, please fill out the application. Paper applications are also available at DGRI's offices at 29 Pearl St NW #1.

See full policy here: Collaborative Marketing Grant 9.1.23 (PDF)

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications are reviewed on a quarterly basis and awarded on a quarterly basis, to reset quarterly. Please allow 5 business days for a response.

Technical Assistance Grant

Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. seeks to support businesses building resiliency through the implementation or enhancement of their digital presence. The goal is to help businesses attract and retain new customers through the use of well thought out and executed websites, social media accounts and e-commerce tools.

To apply, please fill out the application. Paper applications are also available at DGRI's offices at 29 Pearl St NW #1.

See full policy here: Technical Assistance Grant 9.1.23 (PDF)

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Applications are reviewed on a quarterly basis and awarded on a quarterly basis, to reset quarterly. Please allow 5 business days for a response.

Downtown Enhancement Grant

Financial assistance to enhance projects in Downtown Grand Rapids that furthers the community goals established in GR Forward and the organizational goals of Downtown Grand Rapids Inc.

Projects within the Downtown Development Authority's (DDA) boundary are eligible for the Downtown Enhancement Program. The DDA will fund project elements and enhancements beyond what is required by the City of Grand Rapids, and which are deemed to be publicly owned, including but not limited to the following elements:

  • Accessibility Enhancements for Persons of all Abilities
  • Bicycle and Multi-Modal Facilities
  • Parklets
  • Public Art
  • Others as Approved by Review Committee

Application: Downtown Enhancement Grant and Application