Overview
The Albemarle Downtown Vibrancy Grant Program encourages downtown business owners to activate their storefronts through the addition of creative and unique elements that will enhance their business and downtown Albemarle. Activating store entrances could include strategies such as the addition of planters, outdoor seating, or merchandise displays along the sidewalk. Storefront enhancements could include the addition of outdoor dining space, lighting, or a-frame signage. Other creative ideas like activating an alleyway or vacant lot could be considered for the program.  ​

Eligible projects include:

• Planters/pots

• Landscaping/potted plants

• Sandwich board, a-frame signage and/or feather flags

• Seasonally professional hand-painted window signage

• Outdoor merchandise displays

• Outdoor dining

• Outdoor seating

• Exterior lighting enhancements

• Interior storefront display lighting enhancements

• Activities (cornhole, oversized outdoor games, etc.) 

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Eligibility

The Albemarle Downtown Vibrancy Grant is open to commercial property owners and business owners located within the Central Business District (CBD), City of Albemarle Historic District (COA HD) or Municipal Service Tax District (MSD) as defined in the Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation service area. Click here to view a map. Please click the above PDF icon for full eligibility guidelines.

Funding

Applicants are eligible to receive 50% matching funds for an approved improvement project not to exceed $1000 per application. Funds are reimbursed following the completion of the project.

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Application Timeline

The Vibrancy Grant is a revolving program, meaning that applications will be accepted throughout the year. Application(s) received by the Albemarle Downtown will be reviewed monthly by the Albemarle Downtown Design Committee at the meeting following receipt of the application. Projects must be completed no later than three months after the date of approval.

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For full application requirements or to complete an application, please click the PDF icon above.

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Have a question? Contact Katie Lynn at 704-984-9420.

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