Aitkin County Revitalization Grant is now open
Aitkin County has received Federal Fiscal Recovery Funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The Fiscal Recovery Fund was established to help turn the tide on the pandemic, address its economic fallout and lay the foundation for a strong and equitable recovery. The Aitkin County Board of Commissioners, have approved funding to be used to directly impact the Community of Aitkin County by establishing the Aitkin County Business Revitalization Grant Program.
The purpose of this grant fund is to help support local businesses to upgrade/revitalize the outside presence of their business property in our community in an effort to drive economic growth. As business owners and members of our community, it is important that we establish and maintain an image of growth and success. The fund will help support upgrades of awnings, signage, outdoor aesthetics and general business image and appearance.
Funding Limits: Minimum of $1000 and a maximum of $5,000 per grant application. The Economic Development Committee may recommend to the Board of Commissioners to increase or decrease the amount awarded at their discretion. The Aitkin County Board of Commissioners grants the final approval for funding.
Matching Funds: The Aitkin County Business Revitalization grant Program is intended to leverage locally funded promotions and not replace that funding. Significant consideration will be given to the amount and quality of matching funds/in kind contributions when grant applications are evaluated by the Economic Development Committee and County Board. Applicants are required to provide a 1:1 match of all funds awarded.
Eligible Project Examples:
- Improvement of exterior building and/or entry aesthetics.
- Replacement of weathered awnings or signage.
- Exterior business area revitalization to existing structure(s).
Eligible organizations:
- Businesses located in Aitkin County.
Funding recommendations will be considered at the regularly scheduled monthly meetings of the Aitkin County Economic Development Committee in 2023. Application deadline is ongoing until all available funds are awarded.
Detailed Grant Guidelines and Application are available HERE.
Further information and additional forms and materials may be obtained by contacting:
Mark Jeffers
Aitkin County Economic Development Coordinator
218-531-6188
Aitkin County Aitkin County Economic Development Aitkin County Revitalization Grant Program