Innovation Through Competition: Grants Available to Enhance Local Commercial Districts

Commercial District Advisor would like to share some exciting news!

The NYC Department of Small Business Services, in partnership with the New York City Economic Development Corporation  and the New York City Business Assistance Corporation, has again launched Neighborhood Challenge after a successful year in 2013. "This is a competitive grant initiative designed to encourage Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and Community-based Development Organizations (CBDOs) throughout the five boroughs to execute innovative and forward-thinking ideas that address challenges faced in many business corridors."

Last year's initiatives included storefront improvements, district marketing campaigns, and public art installations. The winning programs and initiatives are currently being implemented in business corridors across the Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, and Queens.

This year grant awards of $30,000, $60,000, and $100,000 will be given to the boldest ideas in four categories:

• Business Attraction, Retention, and Growth,
• District Planning, Streetscape Improvements, and Public Space Activation, 
• District-wide Marketing and Events,  and
• Property Activation and Development.

Image via nyc.gov

CDA supports this initiative because the projects help solve small business challenges, generate, community and economic impact, and receive local recognition.

For all the guidelines, eligibility, and to apply visit: 

http://www.nyc.gov/html/sbs/html/neighborhood_development/neighborhood_challenge.shtml 

Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, November 5th, 2014, at 5:00 p.m.

An example of a project by 2013 Neighborhood Challenge winner:

http://impact.sva.edu/blog/impact-community-outreach/

Winners of 2013 Neighborhood Challenge:

http://www.manhattancc.org/news/newsarticledisplay.aspx?ArticleID=553