Union Grove, WI – Union Grove leaders want to recruit new businesses to its downtown and spur redevelopment projects. To accomplish this goal, the Village recapitalized a façade improvement grant program. The program, originally established in 2008, has proven worthwhile with nearly 25 grants successfully awarded to property and business owners in the greater downtown area.
To continue this positive momentum, the Village Board allocated $30,000 to the grant program. Applications are available at www.uniongrove.net or by contacting RCEDC’s Laura Million at LMillion@rcedc.org. Eligible use of funds includes exterior improvements such as architectural plans, exterior painting, tuckpointing and masonry repair, and new exterior lighting. This matching grant can fund up to $5,000 in eligible exterior expenses including new signage.
“Union Grove is the quintessential small-town USA with its quaint downtown and well-maintained neighborhoods,” stated Village President Mike Aimone. “To maintain this small-town feel and to support existing and new business investment, the Village Board recognized the need to continue funding the appearance of the greater downtown area.”
In addition to Union Grove’s façade grant program, Union Grove businesses also have access to two additional programs. For eligible operational costs, the Racine County Matching Grant Program underwrites the cost of consultants and training expenses for eligible small businesses. And finally, RCEDC administers several local, small business loan programs that reduce borrowers’ down payments to 10% and offer fixed interest rates for the term of the loan.
“We are very pleased to have a partnership with Union Grove to encourage small business growth,” said RCEDC’s Laura Million. “With more than 60% of Racine County businesses having less than 99 employees, these small businesses are a vital part of our healthy economy. RCEDC is pleased to support Union Grove’s effort to offer attractive funding programs that encourage investment in Racine County.”
