Main Street Matters Program

The Main Street Matters Program is administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development and reflects the Commonwealth commitment to strengthening downtowns, commercial corridors, and surrounding neighborhoods. The program is designed to create vibrant, economically resilient communities by supporting planning, revitalization, business development, housing accessibility, and public infrastructure improvements. Authorized under state commerce and fiscal statutes, the initiative provides targeted funding to local governments and partner organizations to address both immediate and long term community development needs. The program offers multiple funding tracks, each tailored to a different aspect of community revitalization. Planning grants support studies, feasibility assessments, and preparatory work for larger development efforts. Facade grants focus on improving the exterior appearance of buildings in targeted districts, encouraging private investment and preserving architectural character. Business improvement grants provide microgrants and forgivable loans to support small businesses with capital improvements, technology upgrades, and operational needs. District development grants fund larger scale construction, rehabilitation, and infrastructure projects, including mixed use development, housing, and public safety improvements. Additional categories include accessible housing grants, which support modifications for individuals with disabilities, and implementation grants for designated Main Street or Elm Street communities executing strategic plans. Funding levels and requirements vary by grant type, with award ceilings ranging from fifty thousand dollars for planning grants to one million dollars for district development projects. Most funding categories require matching funds, typically ranging from twenty five percent to fifty percent of project costs, although certain implementation funding may include partial or no match requirements depending on the amount requested and designation status. Eligible uses of funds are clearly defined for each category, with restrictions on ineligible costs such as routine operational expenses, debt refinancing, or owner provided labor. Funds are generally distributed on a reimbursement basis following execution of a grant agreement. Eligibility is broad and includes units of local government, redevelopment authorities, nonprofit organizations, community development corporations, and special district entities such as business improvement districts. These entities may apply independently or in partnership with private sector participants, although all funds must flow through an eligible applicant. Certain project types that benefit private entities require pre approval prior to application submission. Applicants must also demonstrate financial readiness, secured matching funds where applicable, and the capacity to manage and complete the proposed project within the contract period. Applications are submitted through the Commonwealth electronic Single Application for Assistance system. Applicants must provide a detailed project narrative, cost justification, documentation of matching funds, financial statements, and any required supplemental materials. Additional requirements vary by funding category and may include program guidelines for subgranting, evidence of demand, or coordination with other funding sources. The application period for the current cycle opens on July 1, 2026 and closes on August 31, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with regional program staff prior to submission. Proposals are evaluated based on criteria such as strategic importance, community and economic impact, financial need, project readiness, and alignment with local development strategies. Additional consideration is given to leveraged investment and organizational capacity. Following review, selected applicants receive a grant agreement outlining scope, budget, and compliance requirements. Projects must adhere to contracting, reporting, and recordkeeping standards, including documentation of expenditures and adherence to nondiscrimination and procurement regulations. The program operates on a recurring annual cycle and follows a structured process from application submission through review, award notification, contract execution, reimbursement, and closeout. Program inquiries are handled by the Department of Community and Economic Development, with centralized contact via phone and email. Through its comprehensive funding structure and emphasis on collaboration, the Main Street Matters Program serves as a key tool for revitalizing communities across Pennsylvania.

Emphasize project readiness secured funding and strong community and economic impact align project with strategic plans and demonstrate clear demand and feasibility