2026 Downtown Business Improvement Grant Applications
Important Dates:
- Grant Applications Open September 15
- Grant Deadline October 26, 2026
- Committee Review November 2026 at 4pm – in person or via zoom - DATE TBA
- Grant Award Announcement by December 1, 2026
About the Grant Program
The Friends of Downtown Hendersonville are pleased to offer Downtown Business Improvement Grants to support businesses in the Main Street and 7th Avenue Districts in Historic Downtown Hendersonville. The program provides small grants to help downtown businesses make improvements that enhance their storefronts, customer experience, visibility, and long-term success.
Grant funding is available for Pivot Grants, Façade Grants, and Mural Grants, with awards of up to $1,500. Additional funding may be available depending on the availability of grant funds and the scope and impact of the proposed project.
Pivot Grants support creative projects that help businesses improve their operations, customer experience, marketing, merchandise, outdoor environment, or other aspects of their business. Eligible projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Purchase of supplies, equipment, or inventory related to the proposed project
- Developing a new product or service to diversify revenue streams
- Improvements to outdoor seating or other customer-facing spaces
- Website improvements
- Marketing and promotional initiatives
- Improvements that increase customer engagement or sales
- Projects that enhance participation in downtown events
- Other creative improvements that strengthen the business and contribute to the downtown experience
Façade Grants support improvements to the exterior appearance and character of downtown businesses and buildings. Eligible projects may include painting, storefront improvements, lighting, architectural details, exterior enhancements, and other improvements that contribute to the appearance of the downtown district.
Mural Grants support the creation, installation, and enhancement of murals that contribute to Downtown Hendersonville's creative character and visual appeal. Projects may include artist fees, materials, surface preparation, and other expenses directly related to the creation or installation of an approved mural.
Larger Façade Projects: Applicants considering a larger façade improvement project should schedule an appointment with Jamie Carpenter, Downtown Manager, before submitting an application. This meeting will allow the project scope to be reviewed and determine whether additional façade or mural grant funding may be available.Insert and format text, links, and images here.
Grant funds are reimbursable and will be provided upon completion of the approved project and submission of required documentation and receipts. Projects must be completed within the timeframe established in the grant award.
Eligibility: Grants are available to businesses located within the Main Street or 7th Avenue Municipal Service Districts. Projects will be evaluated based on their potential to strengthen the individual business, enhance the downtown environment, improve the customer experience, and contribute to the overall vitality and character of Downtown Hendersonville.
Business & Property Resources
Download the New Business Guide (PDF, 13 MB)(opens in a new tab)for a checklist to open your business downtown. The graphics from this page are included in the guide.
Historic Preservation/ Facade Grant Information (PDF, 4 MB)(opens in a new tab)
September 22, 2021 Small Scale Manufacturing was adopted as an approved use in the Downtown district.