NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release: October 13, 2025
Contact: David Fath, Communications Director
(704) 985-4935 dfath@albemarlenc.gov
Applications Available Now for Award Winning Downtown Catalyst Grant Program
ALBEMARLE, NC – The City of Albemarle is now accepting applications for the Downtown Catalyst Grant Program. This award winning grant program has accelerated private investment and supported building improvements in Albemarle’s Downtown Municipal Service District (MSD). Completed applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, November 10, 2025. Electronic submissions are preferred at www.albemarlenc.gov/downtowncatalystgrant
“Public–private partnerships like the Catalyst Grant help our small businesses take on transformative projects that might otherwise be out of reach,” said Lindsey Almond, Economic Development Director. “We’ve seen this program unlock significant private investment and visible progress downtown.”
The Downtown Albemarle Catalyst Grant Program has a total of $90,000 in grant funds available. An individual business in the downtown Municipal Service District (MSD) may receive a maximum of $50,000 in grant funds to make facade and/or building stabilization improvements as well as internal improvements including furniture, fixtures, and equipment used in the business.
Launched in 2022, the City of Albemarle’s Downtown Catalyst Grant program represents a unique public/private partnership. The City of Albemarle provides $50,000 for the program. Uwharrie Bank has pledged $20,000 and the Albemarle Downtown Development Corporation (ADDC) has also contributed $20,000.
The Downtown Catalyst Grant Program’s latest cycle led to more than $1.5 million in private investment in building revitalization efforts. The program’s success was recognized recently with ElectriCities of North Carolina’s Economic Development Innovation Award.
Questions about the Downtown Catalyst Grant Program should be directed to Economic Development Director Lindsey Almond: econdevelopment@albemarlenc.gov or call 704-984-9419.
Summary of Downtown Catalyst Grant Program Eligibility & Key Requirements
· Property must be within the Downtown Municipal Service District (MSD) and in good standing with City codes and obligations.
· Maximum grant: $50,000; City portion: up to 50% of eligible costs.
· Typical eligible uses: façade and building stabilization, interior improvements that increase productivity or capacity, and FF&E.
· No retroactive funding: work started before the Funding Agreement’s effective date is not eligible.
· Projects should initiate within 90 days (permits secured) and be completed within one year of the Funding Agreement unless an extension is approved.
· Applicants should obtain at least three qualified bids/quotes; if a higher bidder is selected, the applicant covers any cost above the lowest qualified bid. Full requirements are detailed in the City’s policy available here.
How to Apply
· Review the Catalyst Grant Policies & Procedures and confirm your building is inside the Downtown MSD.
· Prepare your scope, budget, and supporting materials (including bids/quotes).
· Submit electronically via the City’s application portal by 5:00 p.m. on November 10, 2025. While electronic submissions are preferred, physical copies will be accepted at City Hall
Review & Award
Applications are reviewed by the Catalyst Grant Program Committee, a seven-member body chaired by a City Council appointee. Awards are made at the Committee’s discretion based on program criteria and available funds.
More information
Application & Municipal Service District Map Program Policies
Catalyst Grant Program Policy, Procedures & Conditions
Program Contact: City of Albemarle Economic Development: econdevelopment@albemarlenc.gov or 704-984-9419.
