Grant Overview

The Downtown Enhancement Grant is an annual grant opportunity available exclusively to current Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) member businesses located and operating within the Downtown Eau Claire district. This grant is designed to support creative projects that improve the downtown experience—whether through public art, community engagement, or business enhancement.

• Applications Open: June 6

• Application Deadline: July 6

• Award Announcement:  August

One project will be selected to receive $2,000 in funding to bring their enhancement plan to life.

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Eligible Project Types

Projects should contribute to the vitality and appeal of Downtown Eau Claire. These could include:

• Public Art & Experience Enhancements – Projects such as murals, wayfinding signage, cultural or community events, and collaborations that improve the downtown atmosphere.

• NOTE: In an effort to continue the mission of DECI and its support of the downtown community and Eau Claire at large, any public art or commissioned worked must be executed by local makers and artists unless there is no option in the area to fulfill that portion of the project.

• Business Operations Improvements – Projects that creatively grow your business by reaching new audiences, launching new products or services, or upgrading your space to create a more dynamic customer experience.

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Eligibility

To apply, your business or organization must:

• Be a current DECI member

• Be located within Downtown Eau Claire

• Be currently operating

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Application Checklist

Applicants must submit the following:

1. Enhancement Plan, including:

   • Business/Organization Description

   • Description of the proposed project and its alignment with downtown enhancement goals

   • Budget overview showing sources and uses of funds, including how the $2,000 grant would be applied

   • Implementation Plan and Timeline, including how progress and completion will be reported to DECI

   • Projects on public property are subject to approval and permitting by the City of Eau Claire

   • Note: all projects must be completed within one year of the grant award date. Projects not completed in this timeline will be responsible for releasing the grant funds back to DECI.

2. Completed Application Form

3. Additional Materials, including:

   • Any supporting documents or visuals relevant to the project

     
     

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

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Selection Process

All eligible applications will be reviewed by the DECI Grants Committee and voted on by the full DECI Board of Directors. Proposals will be evaluated based on creativity, feasibility, impact, and alignment with DECI’s mission to foster a vibrant downtown community.