Match on Main Grant Interest Form

Deadline: Monday, March 23rd at 11:59PM

Does your business have a project that meets these requirements? 

• Creates or retains jobs 

• Activates vacant or underutilized space in Ferndale

• Can be completed within 12 months

• Has a minimum cost of $5,500 AND sufficient funding to cover up-front project costs 

If you have a project that might meet these criteria, let us know below! 

• Match on Main is a locally administered reimbursement grant that supports new and expanding businesses located in downtowns and main street corridors. 

• Eligible businesses may receive up to $25,000 for approved project expenses such as interior renovations, technology, marketing, or outdoor space activation.

• The business must match 10% of the total grant award with their own funding and will be reimbursed for allowed costs upon the completed project.

• Funding is limited and awarded through a competitive process.

Learn more at 
www.miplace.org/small-business/match-on-main/
 

Please note that the City of Ferndale must submit the program application -
complete the form below to be considered for this opportunity

• Sells products and/or services face to face AND has a physical location in Ferndale

• The business can be operating as a for profit or non profit

• The business is headquartered in Michigan

• If the business has been operating for less than a year, have a written business plan

• A project that creates or retains jobs

• A project that leverages private investment, at least 10% of the grant (grants up to $25,000)

• A project that activates vacant or underutilized space

• Project must be completed within 12 months of the executed grant agreement (anticipated summer 2026)

• Technical assistance & design services - such as conceptual renderings of the interior or exterior, merchandise layout, construction drawings, plans or specifications for interior or exterior space activation, and other design concepts

• Marketing technology and automation - such as website upgrades, e-Commerce integration, operational changes, point-of-sale systems, logo and brand development, digital or print marketing materials

• Inventory for retail goods and other working capital

• Interior building renovation - including floors, walls, ceiling, rooms, electrical improvements, lighting and lighting fixtures, furniture and display renovations, installation of a permanent kitchen or other equipment, and/or fire suppression 

• Activation of outdoor space - permanent or semi-permanent features, including a dining area, seating, lighting, planters, wayfinding elements or other place-based outdoor activation. 

Note: expenses for interior building renovations, modifications, and/or activation of an outdoor space (permanent or semi-permanent) require permission from the property owner. 

The DDA & City of Ferndale will form a committee to review project proposals using an objective scoring matrix.
 

If you are selected, you will commit to working with DDA/City Staff to complete the full grant application and associated documents by Wednesday, April 8, 2026. 

Downtown Development Authority 

Info@downtownferndale.com

248-546-1632