EUEA Facade and Placemaking Grant

The Elkhart Urban Enterprise Association (EUEA) Facade and Placemaking Grant Fund has been established for locally owned Elkhart businesses making impactful investments in commercial properties. Our mission includes facilitating positive community and economic development outcomes by encouraging community partnerships that result in outcomes that support small business growth, increase housing opportunities, and preserving historically contributing buildings.

The purpose of this program is to encourage projects that improve the appearance, function, safety, and long-term viability of commercial buildings while contributing to broader community and economic development goals. 

• Maximum Award: Up to $5,000 (1:1 private match required)

• Eligibility: Commercial property owners and tenants with property owner consent

• Program Administrator: Elkhart Urban Enterprise Association (EUEA) 

• Application Status: Accepting applications on a rolling basis

Download the application and review program guidelines below: 

Applications must be submitted and approved prior to the start of any work. Completed applications may be submitted by email, mail, or in person. 

Applicants must be property owners or locally owned businesses operating in Elkhart and in good standing with all applicable local, state, and federal requirements. Tenants may apply only if they provide documentation showing that the requested improvements are permitted under the terms of their lease or provide a letter of support from the property owner.

Grant funding is provided only for new projects. Projects that have already received building or improvement permits or have begun work prior to approval of their application are not eligible for funding.

If the work is to be completed by a contractor, applicants must submit multiple quotes as part of the application process and are required to contract with the lowest qualified bidder. 

Eligible improvements may include signage, awnings, exterior lighting, window or door replacement or repair, exterior painting, minor facade detailing, murals, public art, and placemaking features. 

Funds may not be used for routine operating expenses, ongoing business expansion, projects unrelated to the approved building improvements, or reimbursement for work completed prior to grant approval.

All proposed uses of funds must be clearly documented in the application and justified as necessary to complete the project. If awarded, EUEA will pay contractors, vendors, or service providers directly whenever possible, rather than reimbursing the applicant. 

1. Complete the application form

2. Submit project details, including scope and cost estimates

3. Provide photos of existing conditions

4. Submit your application to Development Services

Submission Information:
Development Services – Elkhart Urban Enterprise Association
c/o Drew Wynes
201 S. Second Street (Office Location)
229 S. Second Street (Mailing Address)
Elkhart, Indiana 46516
574-338-1895
Drew.Wynes@cityofelkhartin.gov 

• Completed application form

• Project description and scope

• Cost estimate or contractor quotes

• Photos of existing building/site conditions

Applications will be reviewed by Economic Development staff and the EUEA Board during quarterly meetings. Applicants will be notified during board review. 

This program is administered by the Elkhart Urban Enterprise Association (EUEA).