JACKSONVILLE, Ark. — City leaders in Jacksonville have been looking to revitalize the city with the help of a community initiative that targets local businesses.
The Business Beautification Program Grant is an initiative presented by Economic Development officials and other city leaders who want to lend a hand to small businesses in the area.
As a vital part of the economy, officials say they want to provide local businesses with a maximum grant of up to $5,000 aimed at providing resources to improve the infrastructure where they can.
"Let's get back to our small businesses who are the most challenged economically to really invest in the appearance of the buildings," said Robert Birch, the Director of Economic Development. "When we bring in visitors, we bring in potential new retail or restaurants. We want them to see an attractive Jacksonville."
Through the grant, businesses will have the opportunity to improve exterior blemishes such as paint chips, or stained pavement. They'll also be able to make architectural enhancements and improve landscaping, signage, lighting, and murals.
Those upgrades are a part of the bigger plan for the Jacksonville community.
"Rediscover Jacksonville" is an ongoing initiative that city leaders have implemented in hopes of influencing consumer behavior, attracting tourists, and fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
By growing local businesses, city officials say it aids in the growth of what Jacksonville is all about.
"We're all united together for a bigger, stronger, better Jacksonville for future generations to live here, work here, play here, invest here, raise a family here, build a business here," said Emily Sundermeier, the Communications Director for Jacksonville. "We want us to be a strong community."
Businesses in the area such as Double R Florists, are thrilled to hear about the grant and what they hope to improve if they were to receive funding.
"We would love the opportunity to upgrade our signage on our building and redo our parking lot, as far as painting and restriping it. It would make such a big improvement," said Lauren Martin, the marketing director.
Starting January 1, 2025, businesses will be able to apply for the grant. From there, the review process begins to see which places will receive funding.
To learn more about what you can do to meet the criteria for the grant, please click here.