Stevens Point Downtown BID Launches New $10,000 Downtown Vitality Grant Program

New matching grant will support business growth, property improvements, entrepreneurship and private investment in Stevens Point Downtown

STEVENS POINT, Wis. — September 2026 — The Stevens Point Downtown Business Improvement District (DBID) is launching a new 2026 Downtown Vitality Grant, dedicating $10,000 to help businesses, property owners and entrepreneurs turn ideas into investments that strengthen Stevens Point Downtown.

Applications for the competitive matching grant program will be accepted September 1–30, 2026.

The new program was developed through the DBID’s Economic Vitality Work Group as a way to directly reinvest in the businesses, properties and entrepreneurial ideas that contribute to a vibrant and economically strong downtown district.

“Our goal isn’t simply to award $10,000 in grants,” said Karen Margelofsky, Executive Director of the Stevens Point Downtown Business Improvement District. “We want to use this funding as a catalyst for even greater private investment. Whether someone has been considering a renovation, new equipment, an expansion, a new product or service, or even bringing a new business to Stevens Point Downtown, we want this program to encourage them to take another look at what could be possible.”

Investing in What’s Next

The Downtown Vitality Grant provides funding in three areas:

• Building & Property Improvements — up to $5,000

• Business Equipment — up to $2,500

• Business Growth, Design & Marketing — up to $1,000

Applicants may seek funding in more than one eligible category, with a maximum combined award of $5,000 per applicant/property.

Projects require a minimum 1:1 applicant match, meaning DBID grant funding may cover no more than 50% of eligible project costs. Because the program is competitive, projects that leverage greater private investment, demonstrate strong readiness and provide significant value to the district may receive additional consideration.

The program is open to eligible existing businesses and property owners within the Stevens Point Downtown Business Improvement District, as well as entrepreneurs working to establish an eligible new business within the district.

Renovate. Expand. Create. Launch. Plan.

The DBID hopes the grant will encourage applicants to think creatively about their next investment.

Eligible projects could include improvements to storefronts or commercial spaces; equipment that allows a business to expand its capacity or services; new product lines; professional marketing or branding; website improvements; architectural or design services; plans and renderings; and new events, promotions or other concepts that strengthen the Downtown experience.

“We want applicants to bring us their ideas,” Margelofsky said. “The strongest projects will not only benefit an individual business or property, but also help create activity, investment and long-term vitality throughout Stevens Point Downtown.”

Applications will be competitively scored on factors including project value and private investment, readiness, funding ability, demonstrated need, uniqueness and the overall value the project adds to the Downtown district.

Applications will first be reviewed by the Economic Vitality Work Group, which will make funding recommendations to the Stevens Point Downtown Business Improvement District Board for final approval. Full or partial awards may be made in order to maximize the impact of the $10,000 funding pool and support multiple projects.

Applications Open Through September 30

Applications for the 2026 Downtown Vitality Grant will be accepted through September 30, 2026.

Businesses, property owners and prospective entrepreneurs are encouraged to review the program guidelines and scoring criteria before applying.

Program information and application: https://www.stevenspointdowntown.com/downtown-vitality-grant/