The Auburn Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is set to launch the third round of its Small Project Grant Fund on September 25, aimed at bolstering local businesses and entrepreneurs within the designated revitalization area. The initiative is a facet of the ongoing efforts to revitalize and strengthen downtown Auburn. The city has appointed the Cayuga Economic Development Agency (CEDA) to administer the grant, which is categorized into Entrepreneurial Seed Funding and Existing Business Assistance, with grants reaching up to $50,000.
The grant program will operate on a reimbursement basis, and the eligible candidates include for-profit businesses, entrepreneurs, property owners/developers, and nonprofit entities within the DRI boundary, who adhere to the specified criteria including local ownership, tax currency, compliance with relevant regulations, and financing commitment for the entire project cost. The application window is scheduled to open on September 25, and prospective applicants must submit their applications by November 17. Information sessions for the grant are scheduled for October 2 and October 19, and a scoring review is slated for early December.
CEDA is offering free and confidential assistance to eligible businesses needing help with application procedures. The agency has provided detailed information regarding eligibility, funding uses, and other relevant details on its website, and inquiries can be directed to CEDA’s Small Business Development Specialist, Paul Viggiano, via phone or email. Additionally, those awarded will be required to pay a project fee of $550, which will be partially reimbursed upon successful project completion.
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