Home Economy Economic Activity R.I. Commerce accepting applications for two commercial improvement grants

R.I. Commerce accepting applications for two commercial improvement grants

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PBN Staff

-

04/20/2026

Commercecrop — THE R.I. COMMERCE CORP. announced it will be accepting applications for its Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund and Site Readiness Program grants until May. 29.

PROVIDENCE – Applications are now being accepted for R.I. Commerce Corp.’s Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund and Site Readiness Program grants, the economic development agency announced Monday. Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund grants are available to developers, nonprofits, and private entities to support projects which improve the appearance, accessibility and overall appeal

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PROVIDENCE – Applications are now being accepted for R.I. Commerce Corp.’s Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund and Site Readiness Program grants, the economic development agency announced Monday. Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund grants are available to developers, nonprofits, and private entities to support projects which improve the appearance, accessibility and overall appeal of Rhode Island’s commercial corridors. Site Readiness Program provides funding to municipalities, public agencies and other stakeholders to help ready underutilized or vacant sites ready for development. Grants from this program be used for improving infrastructure and conducting feasibility studies to help accelerate development and attract investment. “It’s important for us to invest in the main streets and development sites that have the potential to propel our local communities forward,” said R.I. Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor. “Through these programs, we're partnering with municipalities and other stakeholders to build the kind of places which attract businesses and generate economic activity." The two Commercial Improvement Grant programs, R.I. Commerce said, strengthen the state’s economy by revitalizing local business districts and preparing key sites. “Investing in our communities is essential to building a stronger, more competitive economy,” said Gov. Daniel J. McKee said. “These two programs provide resources that can help transform underutilized properties and strengthen local commercial districts throughout our state.” Projects eligible for the Main Street Rhode Island Streetscape Improvement Fund include upgrades such asnew sidewalks, improved lighting, landscaping, signage and accessibility improvements. Municipalities may also use program funds toward technical assistance to support future physical improvements to streetscape projects. Meanwhile, Site Readiness Program aligns with efforts to enhance the state’s competitiveness and provide businesses with “shovel-ready” sites to encourage faster and more efficient project execution. Deadline to apply is May 29. To date, R.I. Commerce said, more than $9 million has been awarded through the Main Street fund and more than $5 million has been awarded through the Site Readiness Program.