Isles’ Downtown Business Improvement Grant offers up to $10,000 for facade work and business upgrades — applications open now through June 15
Isles, Inc. is now accepting applications for the Downtown Business Improvement Grant, a new program offering up to $10,000 to eligible for-profit small businesses in Downtown Trenton. The grant is designed to put real resources behind the owners working to keep the corridor vibrant — whether that means restoring a historic facade or replacing aging kitchen equipment.
The program supports two categories of investment, each with its own funding structure.
Exterior preservation. For facade and exterior improvements — including masonry repair, historic window and door replacement, and structural facade work — Isles will cover 100% of costs, paid directly to the contractor.
Business upgrades. For improvements such as signage, flooring, POS systems, kitchen equipment, and furniture, Isles will reimburse 80% of eligible costs, with a 20% match required from the grantee.
“Downtown Trenton’s small businesses are the backbone of this corridor’s identity, and this grant puts real resources behind the people who have invested in keeping it that way,” said Jason Allen, Managing Director of Community Planning and Development at Isles. “Whether it’s restoring a historic facade or upgrading kitchen equipment, we want owners to know that meaningful improvements are within reach, and that they don’t have to navigate the process alone.”
The program is funded through the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs’ Neighborhood Preservation Program and administered by Isles, Inc. in partnership with the City of Trenton. Applications will be reviewed by the Downtown Trenton NPP Stakeholders Group and Isles representatives, with awards prioritized based on each project’s potential to generate visible, lasting improvement to Downtown Trenton’s commercial corridor.
“Strong, vibrant downtowns are built one block and one storefront at a time,” said Sean Jackson, CEO of Isles. “This program reflects Isles’ long-standing commitment to Trenton, partnering with the City and the State to make sure the entrepreneurs and small business owners who have invested in this community have the tools to keep growing here.”
How to Apply
The application deadline is June 15, 2026.
To apply, visit www.nppdowntowntrenton.org.
For more information, contact Chris Shimchick at [email protected] or 609-341-4716.