Our DDA

Baldwin DDA Launches Business Improvement Grant Opportunity

Downtown Baldwin businesses can apply now through February 26 for up to $6,000 in grant funds to support business growth or business start-up within the Village’s DDA District.

CONTACT:  Jane Allison, DDA Chair | T: 231.745.4671 E: 321skiqueen@gmail.com

 BALDWIN, MI (January 20, 2026)

The Village of Baldwin Downtown Development Authority (DDA) has launched a new Business Improvement Grant program designed to support the growth and start-up of brick-and-mortar businesses in the downtown. All active businesses within the DDA District, as well as new ventures that complement the downtown vision and present a viable business plan, are eligible.

The Business Improvement Grant is designed to stimulate investment, attract new business, and initiate aesthetic improvements to buildings in downtown Baldwin. The program is administered by the Downtown Development Authority, who will work directly with applicants during the grant application process. All submitted applications will be reviewed and evaluated by the DDA for approval of limited funding.

The program provides a reimbursement grant of up to $6,000. A match of at least 25% of the total project cost is required by the business.

Grants can fund a range of uses, such as exterior renovations – including utility upgrades, signage, façade improvements and roof repair, and interior projects -including reconstruction, permanent fixtures, mechanical equipment, flooring. Grants may also support operational enhancements that boost efficiency, expand markets, or upgrade business operations.

According to Baldwin DDA Chair, Jane Allison, “Baldwin’s downtown is growing and this grant program is being launched to provide some added support to those who have the vision and capacity to grow along with us.  I encourage all downtown businesses and commercial property owners to take advantage of this unique opportunity.”

 Eligibility:

Businesses must:

(1)  have a physical location within the DDA District

(2)  have paid all taxes and resolved any liens

(3)  be independently owned (not national brand)

(4)  If not yet in operation – must also include a business plan with application

Proposed project must:

(1)  not be started until application is approved (April, 2026)

(2)  be completed within 7 months from project approval

Applications:

The Business Improvement Grant application is a simple one-page description of the proposed project along with a project budget and any plans or additional materials available for review.

The application can be downloaded from the Baldwin DDA webpage at www.villageofbaldwin.org/projects or picked up at the Village of Baldwin Offices (Monday – Thursday, 8am – 4pm).

Applications must be submitted to the Village of Baldwin Offices at 620 Washington, Baldwin, MI 49304 by February 26, 2026, to be considered for funding.

For more information:

Please contact DDA Chair, Jane Allison at 231-745-4671, or 321skiqueen@gmail.com.