The Downtown Bellingham Partnership & BECU To Award $19,000 To Liven Streets
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership is excited to announce two revitalization grant programs intended to inject $19,000 toward curb appeal projects and community celebration events in 2024. Both the highly competitive Storefront Improvement Grant and the introduction of the innovative Community Activation Zone Grant are generously funded by BECU and are open for application today at downtownbellingham.com/revitalization-grants.
The Storefront Improvement Grant invites businesses with street-visible locations in the downtown core to apply for grants of up to $2,000 to enhance their storefronts. From vibrant paint schemes to eye-catching signage upgrades, the grant aims to rejuvenate our downtown district's aesthetic appeal. Notably, matching funds are no longer required for 2024, reducing or removing the barrier of free cash flow to be spent by businesses. Applications are open from April 22 - May 20, 2024 with the Downtown Bellingham Partnership's Design Committee set to review submissions and award final recipients by end of May. Successful applicants will be notified of their awards by June 30th. The program, which emphasizes creating welcoming entrances for residents and tourists alike, requires project completion by October 31, 2024.
Simultaneously, the Community Activation Zone Grant seeks to enliven the 1300 block of Commercial Street, home to the Commercial Street Plaza and a mix of retail and restaurants. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to apply for grants ranging from $500 to $1,000 to host diverse events such as block parties, artistic performances, workshops, and more. Prospective event hosts can even apply for street closure to motorized traffic with pre-negotiated permits and process the Downtown Bellingham Partnership has solidified with the City of Bellingham and NW Safety Signs. Applications for this grant are accepted on a rolling basis, starting April 22, until funds are depleted.
"We are eager to welcome applications from businesses and event organizers with fresh ideas to deliver near-term community joy and a sense of pride to the Downtown neighborhood," said Lindsey Payne Johnstone, Interim Executive Director of the Downtown Bellingham Partnership. "We are grateful for the support of BECU and look forward to seeing the transformative impact these grants will have on our vibrant district."
For more information and to apply for these grants, please visit downtownbellingham.com/revitalization-grants.
About the Downtown Bellingham Partnership
The Downtown Bellingham Partnership works to enhance, promote, and advocate for a vibrant city center in Downtown Bellingham. For more information on the Partnership and upcoming events please visit www.downtownbellingham.com or call 360-527-8710.
About BECU
BECU is a not-for-profit credit union committed to improving the financial well-being of its members and communities. With a mission to enrich lives through financial education, personalized service, and access to affordable banking solutions, BECU strives to make a meaningful difference in the communities it serves.
