The City of Iowa City is accepting applications for its Building Change Grant Program (BCGP), which offers 50/50 matching grants to support improvements that enhance the function, appearance and sustainability of commercial buildings in core business districts.
The program aims to strengthen the social, historic, commercial and cultural fabric of the community by helping property owners revitalize existing structures in the Downtown, Northside Marketplace, Riverfront Crossings and Towncrest Urban Renewal areas. Property owners or tenants – with owner consent – may apply.
Eligible expenses include materials, equipment and labor for construction and installation related to:
Façade renovations: Improvements to historic and non-historic exteriors, façades and signage.
- Accessibility improvements: Modifications such as entryways, elevators or other interior upgrades that improve ADA access.
- Reactivation of underutilized space: Renovations of upper levels or vacant storefronts, including the conversion of vacant commercial properties to new residential or mixed-use spaces as allowed by city code.
- Energy-efficiency upgrades: Enhancements such as HVAC systems, building automation, lighting, insulation, high-performance glass, reflective roof coverings, mechanical upgrades, alternative refrigerant systems and solar power.
On its website, the city notes solar installations are eligible only when paired with energy-efficiency improvements that directly reduce energy consumption.
Grant awards are reimbursed after project completion and are based on verified costs. Applicants who include energy-efficiency improvements may qualify for higher-tier funding under a two-tier system:
Tier 1: Step Up
- Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000.
- Generally requires a total project cost between $20,000 and $100,000.
- No minimum project cost applies if the scope is limited to energy-efficiency or accessibility improvements that demonstrate a meaningful improvement.
- Eligible projects include façade renovations, accessibility upgrades, and reactivation of underused spaces such as upper floors or vacant storefronts.
Tier 2: Power Up
- Grants of up to $100,000 are available.
- Designed for projects that include eligible energy-efficiency upgrades.
- No minimum total project cost applies if the scope is limited to energy or accessibility improvements with meaningful impact.
Add-On: CoSign+ (Downtown District only)
Properties in the Downtown District that plan storefront enhancements – such as signage, awnings or lighting – may also apply for the CoSign+ program through the Iowa City Downtown District. If awarded, CoSign+ funds can count toward the required 50% local match for the Building Change Grant.
During the grant application period, an architect will be available by appointment for free consultations at the MERGE Business Resource Center, 136 S. Dubuque St., as well as standard consultation sessions with business experts.
Applications are due by 3 p.m. Monday, Nov. 17, through the city’s online application form.
