Main Street Matters
The Main Street Matters program funds science-based planning and revitalization projects to improve downtowns and neighborhoods across Pennsylvania through community-driven development and enhancement initiatives.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: July 1, 2026 (application period opens) | August 31, 2026 (final deadline)
Funding Amounts: Planning: up to $50,000 | Façade/Business Improvement/Implementation: up to $100,000 | District Development: up to $1,000,000 | Accessible Housing: up to $300,000 | Operations funding for designated communities: up to $225,000 over 3 years
Summary: Supports revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in Pennsylvania through grants for planning, business support, safety, and community improvements.
Key Information: Only local governments, nonprofits, and authorities may apply; individuals and private businesses cannot apply directly.
Description
The Main Street Matters (MSM) program provides funding and resources to support the revitalization of downtown cores and surrounding neighborhoods across Pennsylvania. The program aims to foster vibrant, healthy, and welcoming communities by supporting projects such as strategic planning, business improvement grants, façade enhancements, accessible housing initiatives, district development, and public safety improvements. MSM also enables communities to pursue Main Street or Elm Street designation, unlocking priority consideration for funding and access to technical assistance, training, and operational support.
