Meridian Township Accepting Applications for Match on Main Program

Meridian Township’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is now accepting applications to sponsor local businesses for the Match on Main program, a grant opportunity offered through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

Business owners looking to expand or relocate within Meridian Township’s downtown district can apply for a matching grant of up to $25,000 to cover eligible project expenses.

“The Match on Main program is one of the ways that we create opportunity for investment and growth in and for our community. The commitment from the DDA to provide the required 10% match allows a local business owner to invest 100% of their funding into their project,” stated Angela Wright, Chair of the DDA.

The Township’s DDA will cover the required 10% match for eligible small businesses that apply. To get started, business owners should visit https://bit.ly/MatchOnMainApplication to complete and submit the online application. The DDA will review submissions for eligibility and forward accepted applications to the MEDC on behalf of the businesses. Successful applicants may receive up to $25,000 for their project. Applications will be accepted by the Meridian DDA until Friday, February 13, 2026.

Some of the eligible expenses include:

• Design and layout, including renderings, floor plans, merchandise layouts, and construction drawings.
• Interior renovations (floors, walls, ceilings, electrical, lighting, furniture, kitchen installation, fire suppression, and other code items).
• Outdoor spaces such as dining areas, beer gardens, or other approved uses. Exterior signage, doors, and windows may also be permitted.
• Marketing and technology to assist in customer connection (website upgrades or e-commerce integration), operational changes, the purchase of a point-of-sale system, or inventory expenses for retail goods.

“Meridian Township is actively pursuing ways to support our small business owners with a multitude of allowances,” said Neighborhoods & Economic Development Director Amber Clark. “Creating a thriving, bustling downtown starts with quality and healthy businesses. Offering assistance to attract new businesses is just one of the ways we can revitalize our downtown.”

Meridian Township is eligible to apply for MEDC funding due to its status as a Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC). The RRC certification allows Meridian Township access to funding incentives that otherwise would not be available.

For info or resources, visit meridian.mi.us/BusinessResources, or contact Amber Clark at clark@meridian.mi.us or 517.853.4568.