Open 4 Business Grant now Open

Small businesses located within the Monticello IA Main Street district and other designated Main Street Iowa districts may compete for grants of up to $25,000.

Main Street Iowa’s annual Open 4 Business program supports existing businesses and downtown revitalization in more than 50 designated Main Street Iowa communities. As part of the contest, entrepreneurs will outline a business development or expansion idea, such as adding services or product offerings or purchasing needed equipment. 

Eligible businesses must be for-profit and have operated for a minimum of one year within a designated Main Street Iowa district. In addition to the online application, applicants must submit a short video highlighting their project and how it will benefit their community’s economic climate. A 25% cash match is required.

Only one application is allowed per Main Street Iowa community. To determine which business will represent Monticello, a pre-application is available and a short pitch competition will take place in late May.

Applications for the state competition must be submitted through the local program to Main Street Iowa by June 25. Main Street Iowa staff will evaluate applications based on project impact within the district, business innovation and the potential for growth, increased revenue and long-term sustainability. Five finalists will advance to the state competition on October 5 in Osceola, where they will pitch their ideas before a panel of judges.

Open 4 Business launched in 2015 and has awarded funding to around 50 businesses across the state. Grants are administered through the Iowa Economic Development Authority’s Downtown Resource Center and Main Street Iowa programs.