Main Street Matters
The Main Street Matters program funds science-based planning, revitalization, and development projects to strengthen Pennsylvania downtowns and neighborhoods, supporting business, housing, and community improvements.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates: July 1, 2026 (application period opens) | August 31, 2026 (application period closes)
Funding Amounts: Grants up to $1,000,000 for district development; typical caps: $50k (planning), $100k (façade/business/implementation), $300k (accessible housing); operations support up to $225k over 5 years for designated programs.
Summary: Supports revitalization and development in Pennsylvania downtowns and neighborhoods through flexible funding for planning, business, façade, housing, and safety initiatives.
Key Information: Matching funds required; only municipalities, authorities, and nonprofits may apply (not individuals or businesses).
Description
The Main Street Matters (MSM) program is a statewide initiative to support the revitalization of downtown cores and surrounding neighborhoods across Pennsylvania. The program offers flexible funding for a variety of community and economic development activities, including planning, aesthetic improvements, business support, accessible housing, and safety/security enhancements. Communities can also pursue designation as Main Street or Elm Street districts, which provides additional benefits such as priority funding consideration, technical assistance, and operational support for program managers. MSM aims to foster healthy, vibrant, and inclusive communities by addressing specific local needs through targeted investment and development strategies.
