Creative Sign Grant

The Downtown Fond du Lac Creative Sign Grant is designed to incentivize property owners to undertake creative projecting sign projects that add to the uniqueness and character of Downtown Fond du Lac.  The grant is specifically for unique, handcrafted projecting signs. The goal of this grant program is to make business signs as unique as our downtown businesses. The grant reimburses up to 75% of the cost of the sign design, manufacturing and installation. Maximum grant award is $3,000.

Downtown Fond du Lac Experience Generator Grant

To continually increase the vibrancy and vitality of downtown Fond du Lac, the Experience Generator Grant Program is designed to attract businesses who contribute to the overall downtown experience. These business types include restaurants, retail shops or experience-based businesses. Examples of experienced-based businesses include, but are not limited to: indoor archery, museums, ceramic art studios, golf simulators, cooking schools, etc. These business categories contribute significantly to visitor and tourism spending and the overall liveliness of downtown. The $5,000 grant may be used for a variety of business startup expenses.

Downtown Fond du Lac New Business Grant

The Downtown Fond du Lac New Business Grant is an incentive to assist entrepreneurs with expenses associated with starting a new or expanding business in downtown Fond du Lac. New businesses are eligible for a $2,500 grant to be used towards business startup expenses.

Building Security Grant Program

The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership is offering downtown property/business owners the opportunity to apply for the Downtown Building Security Program. The grant assists property/business owners with purchasing an exterior surveillance camera system (in partnership with the Fond du Lac Police Department) and/or a rapid entry system lock box (in partnership with the Fond du Lac Fire Department).

Building Improvement Grant

The Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership (DFP) has created various grant programs to incentivize and leverage investment in Downtown Fond du Lac. These programs are primarily funded through a special assessment paid by the property owners themselves. The DFP Board of Directors has an obligation to the 214 property owners to invest in good, stable and financially feasible projects, with an end goal to raise the property values of the entire district. The Building Improvement Grant (BIG) is designed to incentivize property owners to undertake exterior property improvements, which will lead to increased property value and a better utilization of properties within Downtown Fond du Lac.Administered by the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership. Contact Amy Hansen at amy@downtownfdl.com for more information.

National Exchange Bank & Trust Downtown FDL Loan Program

For Downtown Fond du Lac Properties

National Exchange Bank and Trust is pleased to offer Downtown Fond du Lac property and business owners the opportunity to secure financing at below-market interest rates in order to improve business space or rehabilitate residential space for market-rate housing.

Downtown Property Design Renderings

Downtown property design renderings are available to building owners or tenants. The property must be located within the Downtown Business Improvement District. As a free service from the Wisconsin Main Street (WMS) Program the renderings can be used before a building is purchased or leased in order to show the renovation possibilities of the property. With owner/tenant input the architect on staff at the WMS will design a renovation rendering based on historic photos and current condition of the building. Administered by the Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership. Contact Amy Hansen at amy@downtownfdl.com for more information.