Retail Attraction & 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 Attraction & Innovation Grant, a geographically-targeted grant funded by the Downtown Development Authority, seeks to support retail businesses.
Read the full grant policy here: Retail Attraction Innovation Grant (PDF)
Experiential Retail Grant
Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) seeks to financially support the collaborative efforts of businesses to drive pedestrian traffic and create vibrancy while promoting Downtown as a retail shopping destination. This includes pop-up, artisan, retail, and vendor marketplaces to support growth in economic opportunities for existing Downtown businesses as well as allow opportunities for small business owners to test business concepts in the Downtown economy.
Read the full grant policy here: Experiential Retail Grant FY26 (PDF)
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
