Façade Improvement Matching Grant Program

The Façade Improvement Matching Grant Program is a community enhancement initiative funded by the City of Warsaw and administered by Main Street Warsaw. It is designed to stimulate improvements in the visual appeal and integrity of commercial and business properties located within Downtown Warsaw. Since its inception in 2003, the program has significantly impacted the built environment of the downtown area, distributing more than $705,000 in matching funds and facilitating over $2.1 million in building improvements. The program demonstrates a longstanding commitment to revitalization, economic development, and historic preservation. This grant offers eligible applicants the opportunity to receive matching funds up to $10,000 for street-facing façade improvements, including storefront renovations, awnings, lighting, signs, and sidewalk café structures. However, signage is only covered if it is part of a broader image enhancement project. All awarded grants require a dollar-for-dollar match by the building owner or tenant, ensuring that stakeholders are equally invested in the rehabilitation and enhancement of downtown properties. Applications are accepted from property owners or tenants (with owner consent) whose buildings are located within the Historic Courthouse District or the C-4 Commercial District of Warsaw. In addition, applicants must be supporters of Main Street Warsaw and maintain this support for at least three years. Each application must be comprehensive and include supporting documents such as current photographs, improvement renderings, cost estimates from licensed contractors, and a non-refundable $25 processing fee. Projects must also comply with Downtown Warsaw’s Design Guidelines. A Grant Committee composed of a representative from Main Street Warsaw, a city official, and a board member—preferably an architect—reviews submissions monthly. Projects are evaluated based on a points system, which considers factors such as whether the applicant is new, the completeness and quality of the application, the prominence of the façade, the permanence of renovations, and improvements to vacant or historic buildings. This scoring method helps prioritize projects when demand exceeds available funds. The 2026 grant cycle runs from January 1 through September 30, 2026, or until the $55,000 in available funds are fully allocated. If funds remain after September 30, a second call for projects may be issued. All projects must be completed and final reimbursement requests submitted by November 10, 2026. Unused funds not committed to active projects will revert to the City of Warsaw after December 31, 2026. The disbursement of grant funds occurs only after final inspection and approval, with verification by an architect or committee member, along with submission of all required documentation, including proof of payment. Applicants are responsible for obtaining necessary permits and must not begin work prior to receiving formal written approval. Any deviations from the approved plan must be cleared with the Grant Committee. The program underscores accountability and quality assurance, aiming to preserve the architectural character of Warsaw’s historic and commercial districts while encouraging investment and reinvestment in its urban core.

Ensure visuals are submitted; follow design guidelines strictly; get approvals before beginning construction.