Ocean Springs Facade Grant Program Returns for Third Year with $30K in Funding

Local businesses encouraged to apply by July 1 for improvement grants backed by Mississippi Power

OCEAN SPRINGS, Miss. (WXXV) – Small businesses in Ocean Springs have another opportunity to enhance their storefronts thanks to the return of a popular grant program.

“The Ocean Springs Facade Grant program is now in its third year,” said Cynthia Sutton, president and CEO of the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce – Main Street. The initiative helps local businesses make exterior improvements like new signage, landscaping, awnings, and window upgrades.

With the summer season underway, applications are now open to businesses located in the Mississippi Power service district that are also current members of the Ocean Springs Chamber.

“Anyone who is looking for an update to their facade — that means to the outside, meaning windows, awning, landscaping, signage — if they need some type of improvement to their building in those areas, they can apply for the facade grant program,” Sutton explained. “But they also have to be a current member of the Ocean Springs Chamber of Main Street.”

Mississippi Power is once again funding the program, contributing a total of $30,000 to be awarded throughout the community.

“Mississippi Power is funding this facade grant program, so we’re very fortunate to partner with them,” Sutton said.

Applications require before-and-after photos, quotes for the work, and a matching investment from the business owner.

“There are lots of requirements to be a part of the program,” Sutton said. “So they will have to submit before and after photos. They’ll have to submit quotes. All that is in the application.”

The program has proven to be more than just cosmetic.

“If something’s visually pleasing, if there’s an improvement to a building, then more than likely more people are gonna look at it, visit with them — and that’s what we want,” Sutton said. “It’s kinda like the, if you build it, they will come. If you update it and add some color, then hopefully people will notice and come.”

Interested businesses can pick up an application at the Ocean Springs Chamber office or the Visitor Center located at the L&N Depot downtown. They can also request one by email at mail@oceanspringschamber.com.

“So the program starts now and the deadline is July 1st,” Sutton said.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee, with awards expected to be announced later this summer.