Revitalization and Placemaking Program (RAP) - Façade Program Implementation

The Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Program Façade Program Implementation grants provide gap financing to economic development organizations and public entities to expand and support active, locally administered facade improvement programs. The program partners with Michigan communities to proactively address community revitalization needs, enhance the streetscape in traditional downtowns and neighborhood commercial nodes, stimulate private investment in commercial building facades, and support long-term population and tax revenue growth.

Eligible applicants are economic development organizations, municipal entities, Downtown Development Authorities, or other public and community nonprofit organizations that administer an existing, active local facade improvement program for privately owned commercial buildings. A single lead entity must submit the application, though co-applicants and partnerships are permitted. Preference is given to programs with a documented track record of successful facade grant administration, predictable and transparent processes, and projects located in traditional downtowns, neighborhood commercial nodes, and Geographically Disadvantaged Areas.

To be eligible, facade projects must be located in or contribute to a traditional downtown, central business district, neighborhood commercial node, or adjacent walkable neighborhood, and must comply with the requirements of the local facade program. Eligible activities include exterior alterations, repairs, and rehabilitation of building elements that impact the public realm or streetscape. Priority is given to projects that incorporate historic preservation or restoration, adhere to local design guidelines, utilize sustainable and resilient materials, and maintain long-term building maintenance plans.

Applications are accepted through the MEDC online grant portal during competitive funding rounds. Submissions must include letters of support from the local or regional economic development organization and the highest municipal official, documentation of secured matching funds (such as letters of commitment or local government resolutions), contractor or architectural cost estimates dated within six months, design plans, and completed project forms for each individual building facade project included in the subgrant pipeline.