KEY TAKEAWAYS: DDD launched the Activate Downtown grant program to help fill long-vacant ground-floor commercial spaces. Matching grants cover up to 50% of eligible build-out costs, with awards of up to $20,000 per project. Applications are open through Oct. 15, with grant recipients to be ann ounced Nov. 2. The program aims to boost small businesses, increase street-level activity and strengthen downtown commercial corridors.   The Downtown Development District has launched a matching grant program aimed at reducing the cost of bringing long-vacant ground-floor commercial spaces back into use in downtown New Orleans. The new Activate Downtown: Turning Vacant Spaces into Thriving Places program will provide matching grants covering up to 50% of eligible tenant build-out costs, with awards of up to $20,000 per project. According to the DDD, applications opened July 13 and will be accepted through Oct. 15, with recipients scheduled to be announced Nov. 2. The initiative is intended to address one of the biggest financial hurdles facing entrepreneurs and property owners by helping offset the upfront costs of preparing vacant storefronts for new commercial tenants. “Bringing vacant storefronts back to life directly advances our mission to make Downtown cleaner, safer, and stronger,” DDD President and CEO Seth Knudsen said in a statement. “Activate Downtown will reduce one of the biggest barriers to opening a brick-and-mortar business. The program will make it easier for entrepreneurs to invest in Downtown while creating more active, welcoming streets and expanding commerce for residents, workers, and visitors.” According to the DDD, grant funding may be used for a range of eligible improvements, including interior build-outs, accessibility upgrades, storefront renovations, lighting, signage, security enhancements and building system improvements needed for new commercial occupancy. The program is open to both property owners and business tenants proposing projects in ground-floor commercial spaces within the Downtown Development District that have been vacant for at least one year. Eligible projects must involve new public-facing business occupancy and meet the program’s application requirements. The DDD said it will prioritize projects that activate long-vacant storefronts, create new retail activity or expand existing businesses, support locally owned and independent businesses, improve highly visible street-level spaces and address financing gaps that could otherwise delay redevelopment. Officials said they expect the program to strengthen downtown commercial corridors by increasing street-level activity, creating opportunities for small businesses and improving the experience for residents, workers and visitors. Applications and program guidelines are available through the DDD beginning July 13. The organization said completed applications should be submitted to [email protected] by Oct. 15. ...read more read less