Strong businesses help create a strong community. The Colony Economic Development Corporation offers three grant programs designed to help local businesses improve their properties, expand their operations and invest in their employees.

Is your business located in The Colony? You may qualify for funding that supports exterior improvements, business growth or employee education.

Business Improvement Grant — BIG

First impressions matter. The Business Improvement Grant helps local businesses enhance the exterior appearance of their commercial properties, creating a more inviting environment for customers while contributing to the appearance of the community.

Eligible improvements may include:

• Exterior painting
• Building facade improvements
• New or upgraded signage
• Landscaping
• Exterior lighting
• Other approved exterior improvements

For example, a business investing $1,000 may receive a reimbursement of $500. A business investing $5,000 may receive up to the maximum reimbursement of $2,500.

Business Retention Augmentation Grant — BRAG

Established businesses are the backbone of the local economy. BRAG is designed to assist existing businesses that are ready to take the next step in their growth.

Whether your company is expanding its facility, adding services, increasing production capacity or creating jobs, this program may help offset a portion of the investment.

Applications are reviewed individually based on factors such as:

• The business’s history and longevity in The Colony
• Previous investment in the community
• The scope of the proposed project
• Potential economic impact
• Job creation and business growth

Assisting Continued Education Grant — ACE

A skilled workforce benefits both employers and employees. The ACE Grant helps businesses invest in professional development by offsetting the cost of employee training and continuing education.

Eligible expenses may include:

• Tuition and registration fees
• Travel associated with approved training
• Certification programs
• Industry-specific continuing education
• Other qualified education-related expenses

The Colony EDC grant programs help local businesses reinvest in their properties, operations and employees.

Important: Apply Before You Begin

Grant applications must be submitted and approved by The Colony EDC before any work begins, materials are purchased, training is scheduled or expenses are incurred.

Projects or training completed before approval are not eligible for reimbursement.

Could One of These Grants Help Your Business?

Review the program requirements and submit your application before beginning your project or scheduling employee training.

Questions? Email Bbrooke@thecolonyedc.gov or call 972-624-6127 .