Each year, the DDA provides financial incentives to business owners to encourage revitalization of downtown properties.

Now they have announced a new Building Improvement Grant, or BIG, program.

“We combined the two previous grant programs, the Facade Restoration and the Downtown Assistance Program, into one,” said DDA Program Coordinator Tim McCauley, adding the change was made to simplify the application process.

Although the name has changed, the goal remains the same, as they are focused on enhancing the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the buildings exterior.

ERICKSON JEWELERS AT 511 S. Stephenson Ave. in Iron Mountain was awarded $10,000 through the Downtown Facade Improvement Grant program in 2017 for work on the front facade of the historic downtown building. This is how the building appeared before the work was done. (Courtesy photo)

BIG funds up to 50% of a proposed activity, or up to $10,000 per project, whichever is less.

The amount awarded is determined by a scoring system that takes into consideration the type of improvements proposed and if it’s a historic preservation. The total allocation for this program is up to $20,000 per year.

“To do a facade on a historic building could cost as much as six figures,” McCauley said.

The matching grant money is only offered once a year.

Business owners must be able to demonstrate the ability to fund the project when applying, he said.

Applicants will need detailed project estimates and proposals from a contractor and/or architects as well.

A score sheet is available on the DDA website that outlines all the requirements the board is seeking.

“Owners are also asked to provide current photographs of the building and future plans or drawings — any extra information is beneficial,” McCauley said.

The DDA’s Business Development Committee reviews all submissions and will make a recommendation to the board of directors.

A boundary map of the IM Downtown District is also posted on the website for those who are unsure if they are eligible.

All new and well-established businesses are welcome to apply — the only requirement is they have to own the building.

“Property owners can also apply for several locations, but only one grant will be award to that single owner,” he added.

BIG grants will be awarded for the same parcel or business no more than once every five years.

“Even if someone isn’t prepared this year but is interested in the program, we welcome them call with any questions to get ready for next year,” McCauley said.

Since 2009, the DDA has assisted with about 20 buildings in the downtown district.

Some historic preservation examples that date before 1940 — many of them from the late 1800s and early 1900s — include O.M. GIGI, The Good Earth Salon formerly Organic Grounds, Brick+Mortar and Erickson Jewelers.

“They tried to maintain the period look of the building as much as possible,” he said.

The 2023 grant recipients were Extraordinary Interiors at 101 E. Ludington St. and the 311 S. Stephenson Ave. building owned by Jesse Land.

“The whole idea is to make the downtown more attractive and to stimulate development within the district,” McCauley said.

The grants are locally funded by the DDA, with proceeds raised from events, festivals and sponsorships.

The application deadline is 4 p.m. March 29. Recipients will be notified May 15.

Applications can be downloaded from the Iron Mountain DDA website at https://downtownironmountain.com.

Any questions about the BIG program can be answered by calling the DDA office at 906-774-8534 or emailing McCauley at programs@downtownironmountain.com.