The Northern Forest Center is offering grants to businesses and some building owners in the Katahdin region to spruce up their store fronts. Grants will range from $500 to $3,000 and can be used to improve signage, add a fresh coat of paint, or for other changes that will make businesses and Main Streets appealing.

“We’re excited to be able to offer local businesses a hand in making their businesses shine,” said Maura Adams, director of Community Investment for the Center. “Tourism is a very important part of the economy for the Katahdin region and good signage and a welcoming exterior can help draw visitors into stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.”

The Maine Woods Consortium has provided $30,000 to fund the program, which is modeled on a similar program the Center offered in Greenville, Maine. Both programs are part of the Center’s support for community revitalization and destination development in the Northern Forest.

Applications to the façade grant program are due March 15. Buildings in the Katahdin region are eligible, including properties in Millinocket, East Millinocket, Medway, Patten, Sherman, Island Falls, Mount Chase, and Stacyville.

Funding decisions are expected April 1 and the building improvements should take place by mid-summer. Download the one-page application.