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1. Who do I contact if I want to apply for a grant under the Façade Improvement Grant (FIG) Program?

To apply for a FIG, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

2. Is there an application fee?

Yes, there is a non-refundable $25 application fee that must be submitted with every application. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

3. What is the maximum amount I can apply for?

The maximum FIG award available is $20,000. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

4. How often can I apply?

There is no set limit to the number of times a property owner may apply; however, to ensure maximum fairness and accessibility to the program, property owners who receive a FIG must wait 36 months after the completion of their first project before applying for subsequent grants. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

5. What is the time frame on a decision once an application is submitted?

Once your completed application is submitted, it will be presented to the Revolving Loan Fund Committee for their recommendation and Newport News Economic Development Authority for approval. Decisions are usually made within 30 days of receipt. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

6. Can exterior and interior improvements be covered under a grant from the FIG Program?

No, exterior and interior improvements are not covered. Grant funds will only cover improvements done to the exterior / facade of the building. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

7. What if I am a co-tenant of a building, do both tenants need to apply?

FIG applications will only be accepted from the property owner(s). All property owners must sign the FIG Application in order for the application to be considered. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

8. Any specific proof of ownership required?

Ownership of the property will be verified by a Department of Development Representative. To ensure efficient processing of your application, please provide documentation that demonstrates ownership of the property. If the applicant is an LLC, an operating agreement or documents from the initiation of the entity will be helpful during processing. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

9. Can a business take advantage of more than one of your incentive programs?

Yes, businesses may be eligible for multiple incentives. As each business is categorized differently and pays different types of taxes based on the nature of the business, the incentives available will vary. To discuss incentives for which your business may be eligible, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

10. Which program will give me the most money?

Because each of the city’s programs has varying qualification criteria, and each project is unique, there is no single way to determine which program will offer the largest incentive amount. If you wish to discuss the opportunities available to your business, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.

11. Am I eligible if I owe the city any taxes?

You are not eligible if you owe the city taxes. All applicants must be current on city taxes in order to be considered for a FIG. If you have any questions, please call 757-926-8428. A Department of Development representative will be happy to assist you.