MARSHALL — Marshall businesses looking for help to refurbish their buildings can now apply for up to $10,000 in matching grant funding.

On Thursday, the Marshall Economic Development Authority announced it has brought back its Facade Improvement Matching Grant Program. The program gives local businesses incentives to improve the outside appearance of their buildings, or do exterior repairs.

“We have received requests from several local businesses looking to make improvements to their building’s exterior,” said Marshall EDA Director Lauren Deutz. “Our hope is that this incentive can help to alleviate costs and ultimately improve the overall appearance of our business districts.”

The EDA offered the matching grant program once before, in 2019. Deutz said the grants helped several businesses complete projects including adding new signs, new windows, and updating entryways.

Businesses can apply for up to $10,000 in matching grant funds, Deutz said. Some of the projects that can qualify for a grant include paint or siding work, tuck pointing, window and door repairs, and restoring architectural details.

Businesses can also apply for grant funding to remove access barriers for people with disabilities, or to install a “green facade” or living wall.

The matching grant program will be capped at $100,000, or will expire after one year, whichever happens first.

Additional information on the grant program is available at ci.marshall.mn.us/development, or by contacting Deutz at lauren.deutz@ci.marshall.mn.us.