Business Improvement Grant (BIG Program)

BIG-Lynx Bookstore.jpg

1. Business Improvement Grant Program

The GCRA’s Business Improvement Grant (BIG) Program offers up to $150,000 in funding to help businesses make repairs and improvements to their physical spaces.

This 50% reimbursable grant can help with projects like: 

  • Fixing or upgrading building systems (HVAC, plumbing, electrical) 
  • Repairs to ensure structural safety 
  • Improvements to the building’s façade (signs, awnings, or decorative elements)
  • Landscaping or security upgrades 
  • Meeting ADA compliance standards 

2. How Much Can You Get?

If awarded, the BIG Program reimburses eligible approved project costs. Funding levels are:

Tier 1: Up to $5,000 with 100% match required - applications are accepted all year
Example: If your project costs $3,000, you can be reimbursed the full $3,000. 

Tier 2: Up to $50,000 with a 50% match  
Example: If your project costs $20,000, you can be reimbursed $10,000. 

Tier 3: Up to $150,000 with a 50% match (building must have a national or local historic designation) 
Example: If your project costs $140,000, you can be reimbursed $70,000. 

3. Start an Application

Businesses must be located within the program boundary area, with extra points for properties within key locations. Applications for this grant should be submitted to the GCRA by Aug. 1, 2025. 

We welcome questions via GCRAprograms@gainesvillefl.gov or phone at 352-393-8200. You may also make an appointment to meet with a program manager at our office, where we can help review your planned submittal in person. Ready to apply? We have a notary on-site for your convenience. 

Get the BIG Program Application(PDF, 1MB)

Need ideas? See how other businesses in Gainesville used the BIG Program with before and after photos. 

4. BIG Program FAQs 

How do I apply?

Submit your application for this cycle by Aug. 1, 2025. We’re here to help! You can: 

  • Email us at GCRAprograms@gainesvillefl.gov
  • Call the GCRA at 352-393-8200 
  • Make an appointment to review your application in person with a program manager
  • We have notary on site for your convenience

Does my business qualify for this grant - what are the requirements?

  • Your business must be within the BIG Program boundary area – see map. 
  • The property must be at least 15 years old. 
  • You can apply only once for each project every 5 years. 
  • Work must start within 60 days of approval and finish within 18 months.

What can the grant be used for?

The grant can be used for exterior work, interior work, and permanent internal systems, including: 

  • Repairs for structural safety and permanent improvements 
  • Exterior (e.g. signs, awnings or canopy) 
  • Façade and wall fencing 
  • Landscaping 
  • Updating security features 
  • Restoring historic or decorative elements 
  • Interior permanent systems (e.g. HVAC, plumbing, electrical) 
  • Renovations to meet ADA compliance 

 See the program packet for the full list and complete details. 

Where is this grant offered - what is the program boundary?

The BIG Program's renewed focus is the downtown area, as identified by the city’s Downtown Gainesville Strategic Plan. The blue area shows the program boundary below, and extra points are awarded if businesses are located in the pink area or one of the four neighborhoods displayed on the map. 

A five-year easement is placed on the property where the GCRA must approve any changes to the improvements, or the recipient is required to pay back a pro-rated amount.  

What have other business done with this grant? / Who else was awarded this grant?

Glad you asked! See how other businesses used the BIG Program with before and after photos here.

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