The purpose of this program is to improve the visual appearance and economic vitality of Van Alstyne by partnering with the local business community to help it improve existing commercial/retail/office structures. The goal of the program is to beautify Van Alstyne and enhance the safety of local buildings to make our City a more attractive place for residents and visitors, and to aid in the economic vitality of Van Alstyne. We do this by providing matching funds for site improvements for those who qualify.

Check out this article in the Van Alstyne Leader from March 2019, covering some projects around downtown (link opens in a new window).

Improvements you can see from the front attached to the building are eligible for consideration for a Façade Grant.

Improvements not seen from the outside are eligible for consideration for a Retention and Expansion Grant. Maintenance repairs (i.e., HVAC) will not be considered. These improvements are meant to help businesses expand their operations to eventually add more employees or supplement current facilities to maintain operations.

The Community Grant is dedicated explicitly to organizations located in a VA sales-tax producing region such as the City of Van Alstyne, VASA, KVAB, etc. The Community Grant includes quality of life projects (does not include façade grants or sponsorships).

The Emergency Relief Grant is dedicated to businesses located in a VA sales-tax producing region. This grant is designed to help provide relief to businesses that have experienced damages to their property due to natural causes, accidents or circumstances outside the control of the business that impact daily operations. This grant is meant to help businesses with necessary repairs to expedite the return to normal operations.

To get started, download the Grant Program packet and application above. For more information on the program, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Van Alstyne Community and Economic Development office.