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Project Overview

The Affordable Commercial Grant Pilot Program was designed to help address a gap in the market for more affordable commercial space and increase opportunities for local small businesses to thrive in our commercial centers.

The program has awarded over $840,000 to three unique projects aimed at supporting small businesses and fostering community connection and vibrancy.

The application window closed in October 2024.

Award Recipients

  • KGNU: Received a grant to support the renovation of their new 10,000-square-foot community media center located at 1720 14th St. In addition to a long-term home for KGNU, this project commits affordable space for a cafĂ© tenant and low rates on performance and meeting spaces for arts groups and nonprofits.
  • Top Hat Supply for Journeys: Received a grant to support capital improvements and rent subsidies aimed at revitalizing the East Pearl location at 1721 Pearl St. This space houses a nonprofit dedicated to an incubator space for artists to launch their businesses. It also offers affordable studio and gallery representation, hosts monthly open studio hours for artists, and facilitates community-driven cultural events.
  • The New Local: Received a grant to support heating upgrades for their space on 713 Pearl St. and provides a rent subsidy over at least the next five years. This funding will allow The New Local to maintain low fees for the women-owned small businesses it supports.