The city of Cortez doubled what it will match for businesses interested in beautifying their storefronts, an increase that can be realized only in 2024.
It’s called the Business Beautification Mini-Grant program, which now offers “a 50% match grant on projects up to $6,000,” according to a news release from the Community and Economic Development Department.
In other words, the city will now match up to $3,000 on “qualifying expenses,” up from a $1,500 match.
The release specified that “qualified expenses” means purchasing materials needed for improving a business’s exterior. Things like “replacing or upgrading exterior deteriorated materials, new awnings, resurfacing, stucco, molding repair, signs, new doors or windows.”
Businesses can even spend up to $600 on sprucing up with flowers and other plants.
Eligible businesses and nonprofits are those within Cortez city limits that are “in good standing with the state of Colorado and the city of Cortez and have a building with a public-facing façade.”
The program is made possible by the state’s Housing and Finance Authority.
Additionally, application deadlines have been extended: Now, businesses can turn in their applications until Dec. 2. “All receipts, paid invoices and ‘after’ photos must be submitted no later than 7:59 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 9.”
Businesses will be considered for funding on a first-come, first-served basis, as funding is finite, the release said.
Follow this link to apply for the grant, or visit the city of Cortez’s website for more details.
