AKRON, Ohio – The city of Akron is accepting applications for its 2025 Great Streets Grant programs.

The programs include the 2025 Micro Enterprise Business Improvement Grant and the 2025 Façade/Building Improvement Grant. The programs are open to businesses located in one of the city’s 13 neighborhood business districts, which consist of: Copley East, Ellet, Firestone/Aster Ave, Goodyear Heights, Kenmore, Maple Valley, Merriman Valley, Middlebury, North Hill, South Arlington, Sherbondy Hill, Wallhaven and West Hill.

The Great Streets program started in 2018 to try to create walkable, thriving neighborhoods through investments in the built environment, public realm and locally owned businesses. The city has awarded more than $2 million to local businesses through the program since its inception. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development provides program funding through Community Development Block Grants.

In 2025, Akron received $300,000 for the Façade/Building Improvement Grant and $100,000 to support the Micro Enterprise Business Improvement Grant, according to a city news release.

“Investing in our neighborhoods and small businesses is a key component in both the Working Together and Living Together strategies of my administration,” Akron Mayor Shammas Malik said in the release. “Providing support for new small businesses and also investing in the architecture that houses those businesses provides two different paths for supporting neighborhoods and the entire Akron economy.”

2025 Micro Enterprise Business Improvement Grant

These grants aim to support general operations and business development for entrepreneurs who own their businesses with five or fewer employees. The grants of up to $5,000 will include support from Akron business assistance providers to ensure grant recipients are building on a strong foundation.

2025 Façade/Building Improvement Grant

These grants are available for exterior improvements and/or site improvements for businesses. Eligible businesses may receive up to $20,000 in matching grant funds, according to the release. Potential improvements could include: facade renovation, brick and masonry cleaning, installation of new doors and windows and signage improvements.

How to apply

The deadline to apply for both grants is Sept. 30. Interested businesses can learn more about the grants and apply on the city’s website.

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