• 350 S. Cedar Street Kalkaska, MI 49646

  • 231-384-6629

    • Kalkaska DDA

    Kalkaska Facade Grant Program

    The Kalkaska Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Façade Improvement Grant Program is designed to encourage private investment and enhance the visual appeal of downtown Kalkaska. By supporting the rehabilitation and improvement of building facades, the program strengthens community pride, promotes good design, and boosts the overall economic vitality of the downtown district. The program provides competitive, matching grants to eligible property and business owners to help offset the costs of permanent exterior improvements.

    Program Highlights

    • Who Can Apply: Property owners or tenants of commercial and mixed-use buildings in the DDA district (tenants must have owner approval).
    • Priority: Preference is given to first-time applicants.
    • Available Funding: at least $20,000 is available year.
    • Grant Amounts: Covers up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a maximum award of $5,000.
    • Eligible Improvements: Brick and mortar repair, painting, windows and doors, awnings/signage, sidewalk repair, lighting, roofing, and architectural detail restoration.
    • Evaluation: Applications will be scored using the official Façade Grant Rubric to ensure fair and consistent review.
    • Requirements: Applicants must be current on all taxes, fees, and permits.
    • Timeline: Projects must be completed within one year of approval.
    • Maintenance: Improvements must remain in place for at least five years.
    • Reimbursement: Grant funds are awarded only after the project is 100% complete.
    • How to Apply: Submit design plans, estimates, photos, and application materials to the DDA for review by the Design Committee and Board.



    How it works 

    1. Meet with Kalkaska DDA to review your project 

    2. Submit the Completed Application

    3. The project will be reviewed and scored by the DDA Design committee using the Facade Rubric

    4. Final Awards will be approved by the DDA Board

    5. Complete the project within one year, keep receipts and taking before/after photos

    6. Submit the Completed Project Reimbursement Form to receive your funds 

    Applications/ Completed project reimbursement forms submission

    Submission will go to Kalkaska DDA or a member of the Kalkaska DDA Board.

    In person at the Kalkaska office 350 S Cedar Street, call 231-384-6629

    Or email [email protected]


    Resources

    Application

    Facade Rubric

    Completed Project Reimbursement Form

    Application period Closed