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 lesser.
Applications open soon!
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.
Resources:
Design Guidelines for Improvements in DT Helena HD
Articles on the program:
2021 Awarded Grants
In 2021, we recieved four applicants and we were able to award three for a total of $10,000.
Colwell Building – 62 S Last Chance Gulch
Before: No awning which caused ice buildup and accessiblity issues
After: Installed awning
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.
2020 Awarded Grants
In 2020, four applicants applied for our grant and we were able to award three.
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
2019 Awarded Grants
In 2019, five applicants applied for our grant and three were awarded but only two agreed to the terms and conditions of their award letter.
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
In 2018, seven applicants applied for our grant and three were successfully awarded.
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!
