PLATTEVILLE — The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation has allocated $25 million statewide to support retail start-ups and expansions on main streets and commercial corridors. The Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission will be administering this program for Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette and Richland Counties and will be distributing approximately 100 grants across the region. 

Main Street Bounceback Grants are available to for-profit businesses and non-profit organizations meeting the following criteria:

● The business either is moving into a vacant commercial space or has moved into a vacant commercial space as of January 1, 2021

● The business can certify that it has not or will not vacate a commercial space in Wisconsin to become eligible to claim this grant

Businesses are ineligible to apply for the grants if they are:

● Part of a national or regional chain, unless the business is an independently owned and operated franchise

● A home-based business or property landlord, unless they are moving their business functions into the vacant commercial space

● Real estate investment firms that intend to hold the property for investment purposes only

● Engaged in any illegal activity under federal, state or local law

The funds can be used for lease or mortgage payments, operating expenses, building repairs, tenant improvements and other qualified expenses. Grants cannot be used for storage or residential spaces.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity for entrepreneurial business owners to open storefronts,” said Troy Maggied, Executive Director of the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission. “I would encourage every city, town and village to get the word out to their communities and help us further develop vibrant retail experiences for our local citizens and visitors.”

If interested, please contact Griffin Koziol at MainStreetBounceback@swwrpc.org.  Additional program details are available at https://wedc.org/

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