Grant Programs
Downtown Partnership is committed to fostering growth and strengthening the economic potential of downtown Baltimore by providing direct financial and technical assistance to businesses and property owners within the Downtown Management Authority boundaries.
Request for Interest:
DPOB is seeking firms from a variety of fields to join our referral partner network. Qualified firms will be included on a referral list for businesses seeking retail consultants to support projects that are eligible for DPOB’s grant programs. Services sought include interior design/architecture, space planning, graphic design/branding, merchandising, retail strategy, signage design and fabrication/installation, project management, construction, and various related trades. For information or to submit an application, please visit the link below.
Grants for Downtown Businesses
Funding is available to support businesses and property improvements within the Downtown Management Authority boundaries. Projects completed prior to application and/or before approval of an application will not be considered for award. Awards are based on the submission of complete applications, including required documents, and availability of funds.
Check to see if your business/property is in the Downtown Management Authority boundaries:
Facade Improvement Program
The Facade Improvement Program supports visible exterior upgrades that enhance the appearance, safety, and longevity of buildings within Downtown Baltimore. Grant funds may be used for eligible exterior improvements including, but not limited to, signage, awnings, lighting, painting, brick and masonry repair, historic restoration/renovation, and the removal and/or installation of windows and doors. The program is administered in coordination with the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), and improvements must adhere to DPOB's Storefront Criteria. Business owners and property owners are eligible to apply, and applications will be accepted on a rolling basis. For additional information, please visit the application link below.
Learn More HereOperation Storefront
The Operation Storefront Program provides targeted financial support to ground-floor businesses in Downtown Baltimore seeking to make strategic investments to support their business operations and enhance the customer experience. Eligible business owners can apply for funding for the following purposes: 1) Retail consulting - including space planning, interior design/architecture, merchandising, retail strategy, signage design and branding, and other related technical assistance. 2) Interior improvements - including renovations, furniture, fixtures, equipment, and signage fabrication and installation projects that align with DPOB's Storefront Criteria. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For additional information, please visit the application link below.
Learn More HereDowntown BOOST Program
The Downtown Black Owned and Operated Storefront Tenancy (BOOST) Program is dedicated to fostering the long-term success of minority-owned businesses in Downtown Baltimore. By providing substantial grant funding and a robust cohort model, BOOST aims to create a supportive environment where these businesses can thrive.
Learn MoreBaltimore Culinary Exchange
The Baltimore Culinary Exchange (BCX) strengthens the economic climate of Downtown Baltimore’s culinary scene by supporting restaurant businesses and food entrepreneurs in sustaining and growing their operations from start-up to established phase. BCX will provide grant funding to existing and new culinary business owners and operators within the Downtown Management Authority.
Learn MoreFill out our grant inquiry form and someone from team DPOB will get back to you.
Small businesses, including restaurants and retail establishments, are encouraged to apply for DPOB's grant programs.
