Bucyrus Foundation Grants

Façade Improvement Grant

This grant program is for enhancing the attractiveness of South Milwaukee's business districts and to promote commercial vitality and increase economic activity in all commercial districts.  There are two funding tiers based on location, providing up to a $15,000 grant and requiring up to a 50% match.  

Applications will be accepted after preliminary project eligibility is approved by the city's economic development staff.

Facade Improvement Grant Program Guide
Commercial Facade Design Guidelines
Façade Grant Application
Design Concept Grant Application
Zoning Map
Downtown District Map

Bucyrus Foundation ED Community Grants

New Business Grant

This grant provides one-time assistance in the amount of $5,000 for new and existing businesses opening a new location or expanding operations in a vacant commercial space on Milwaukee Avenue between the 800 and 1300 blocks.  Grants may be awarded prior to receiving a Certificate of Occupancy.

Submit a Letter of Interest to the city's economic development staff to receive preliminary approval. the letter should be a brief, typed, one page summary which outlines the applicant's intent for using the funds.

ELIGIBILITY

In order to be eligible, an applicant must have submitted an occupancy permit through the City of South Milwaukee and must either provide proof of an active lease for their commercial space or documentation showing they are the owner of the commercial space. 

  • The lease must be for at least one year.
  • The business must be open to the public at least 25 hours per week.
  • The storefront space must be at least 500 square feet. 
  • The space must also have been vacant for a period of at least 60 days.

New Business Program Guide Program Guide
New Business Grant Application
Building Owner Acknowledgement Form

Civic Grant

This annual program allows for nonprofit organizations to apply for up to $25,000 to address a community need, improve community support, solve a problem, or enrich the people of South Milwaukee.

Submit a Letter of Interest to the city's economic development staff to receive preliminary approval.  The letter should be a brief, typed, one page summary that outlines the project, who will benefit, and a budget estimate.  Applications will not be accepted prior to preapproval. 

Letters of Interest are due March 1, 2023

Applications are due April 31,2023

Civic Grant Program Guide
Civic Grant Application

Contact Us

  1. Ericka Lang

    Economic Development Project Manager
    Email Ericka Lang
    Phone: 414-762-2222 x135
    More Information