Facade Grant
The Helena Business Improvement District Façade Grant program is designed to promote the improvement of commercial and multi-use properties in the Business Improvement District by helping property owners upgrade, rehabilitate, and preserve the facades of eligible structures in downtown Helena. Facade Grants provide matching funds up to 50% of project cost or $5000, whichever is less.
Apply now! Grants are due MARCH 31st 2024!
Qualifications:
- Property must be within BID Boundaries.
- If the building has a facade easement, any project must go before the Heritage Preservation and Tourism Council. Check this list: Helena Facade Easements List of Buildings.
- If your building is in the historic district and it contributes to the historic character of downtown Helena, and if your project includes demolition of any building components, your project must go before the Heritage Preservation and Tourism Council. Check this list: Historic District Building Status
- Here’s a map showing the historic district and the historic status of buildings: Historic Status Map
Resources:
Design Guidelines for Improvements in DT Helena HD
Articles on the program:
Awarded Grants
Montana Book Company
Before – drab and univiting.
After – colorful and vibrant!
The Garage – 334 Jackson St.
Before: Older paint with no awning
After: Brighter paint complimenting the surroundings and a Louvers Trellis awning to protect from sun, rain, and snow.
Dowling Architects – 734 N. Last Chance Gulch
Before: Unused historic building in need of a facelift
After: Updated siding, foundation, roof, awnings, windows, garage doors
Western Gold LLC – 406 N Last Chance Gulch
Before: blank canvas wall hiding a previously artistically painted mural
After: Local artist and muralist creates a fun, identifiable marker
Union Market Block – 101 E 6th Ave
Before: Worn paint, in need of an update.
After: Fresh, vibrant paint brings the building to life.
2018 Awarded Grants
KOHRS BLOCK – 324 & 326 Fuller Ave
Before: Badly dated, uninviting 1960’s facade hides the building’s original character.
After: Original masonry is revealed, and the new storefront opens the space up to light and views.
THE PAINTED POT – 333 N Last Chance Gulch
Before: Tired awning and dated paint leave the entrance tired looking.
After: A bright and lively new look for an old favorite. New awning not shown.
SAGE & OATS TRADING POST – 330 North Jackson
Before: A plain exterior that is drab and easy to miss.
After: Inviting new awnings, updated lighting, flower boxes, and fresh paint make for a remarkable transformation!