PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 1Berkshire, thanks to a one-time grant award, announced that they are accepting applications for a second year of the Best Foot Forward Facade Improvement Micro-Grant program.

 

In 2022, this program provided 31 small businesses and organizations across the Berkshires with facade improvement grants of up to $1,000, helping not only to improve individual storefronts, but to improve the aesthetics of our downtown commercial districts in the region.

 

In 2023, this program returns and is expanded. A minimum of 47 grants of between $500-$1000 will be made available on a rolling basis to small businesses and organizations with first-floor store fronts. A maximum of $7,000 in awards will be made within any specific municipality. Priority will be given to businesses who did not receive facade improvement grants in 2022. 

 

"We are so excited to be able to bring this program back again for a second year," Benjamin Lamb, 1Berkshire Director of Economic Development said. "In 2022, we not only saw the impact these dollars had on our small business community, but also the amount of additional investment they inspired." 

 

Applications are now open and grants will be awarded until funding is exhausted. All grants must be fully utilized and the associated work completed by June 30th, 2023. To apply, go to: https://form.jotform.com/230045434240139