DOWNTOWN MICRO-GRANT
Connect Downtown Johnson City (Main Street Program Advisory Board) is thrilled to offer annual micro-grants to help downtown businesses grow, enhance their spaces, and bring new energy to our district.
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Grants range from $500 to $4,000, depending on project scope, community impact, and available funding.
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If you're a business or property owner in downtown Johnson City, this is your chance to invest in projects that make a difference — for your business and the entire downtown community.
GRANT ELIGIBILITY
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Current downtown business or property owners
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New businesses with an executed lease agreement
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Projects must take place at a downtown Johnson City location
WHAT CAN FUNDS BE USED FOR?
Micro-grants can help with a wide range of projects, including:
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Interior or exterior renovations
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Build-out projects
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Storefront improvements
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Events and activations
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Marketing initiatives and more
WHAT IS NOT ELIGIBLE
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Staff or employee wages
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Insurance premiums
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Utility bills
IMPORTANT GUIDELINES
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Applications must include proof of estimates or expense quotes.
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Funded projects must be completed within 6 months, with receipts and documentation submitted.
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If project expenses are less than the awarded grant, remaining funds must be returned within 6 months.
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Projects should focus on revenue growth, customer experience, or community impact.
GRANT CATEGORIES
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Improvement Projects
From fresh signage to outdoor seating, lighting upgrades, ADA improvements, or interior renovations that enhance customer experience.
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Marketing & Promotion
Including professional photography, advertising, branded merchandise, social media strategy, or a new website.
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Other
Got a unique idea? Share it! We welcome creative projects that support growth, improve customer experience, or strengthen our downtown community.
Questions? Contact Lindsey Jones, Main Street Director, at ljones@johnsoncitytn.org​