Detroit invests $310,000 in legacy businesses with new grant round

DETROIT – The City of Detroit recently launched Round 2 of a competition to support some of the city’s long-time businesses. Working with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, the city will award a bunch of new support for existing businesses, ranging from $2,500 to $50,000.

Organizers say the innovative program recognizes Detroit’s commitment to preserving businesses that have shaped the city’s cultural identity for three decades or more.

In part, the program provides support to address business succession planning.

With nearly two-thirds of family-owned businesses nationally lacking documented succession plans, Detroit is taking a proactive approach to ensure its legacy businesses continue thriving for future generations.

The goal is to support the families, the businesses, and the communities that depend on them.

The details on requirements and allowable uses were spelled out to Local 4 like this…

• Physical operation in Detroit for minimum 30 years

• Independently owned and operated businesses

• Open to the public with regular business hours

• Current City of Detroit compliance (licenses, taxes, permits)

• Demonstrated cultural impact on Detroit or specific neighborhoods

• Equipment upgrades and new hardware

• Business beautification and physical enhancements

• Technology improvements and upgrades

• Professional services (legal, accounting, marketing)

• Landscaping and curb appeal improvements

The application process opened on August 25th and the deadline to fill out an application is October 6, 2025, at 8 a.m.

Here’s a look at how much money is on the table.

Round 2 will award 30 grants totaling $310,000:

• One $50,000 citywide grant

• 14 $15,000 grants (seven per council district and seven at-large)

• 15 new microgrants:

• Five $5,000 grants

• 10 $2,500 grants

“As the City of Detroit works to create the jobs of the future, we are excited to invest in the entrepreneurs and legacy businesses that have served as foundations in our communities,” said Justin Onwenu, director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity for the City of Detroit. “Small businesses are drivers in economic growth, and we are excited to make needed investments to ensure that they continue to thrive in the City of Detroit.”

Business owners can learn more about eligibility requirements and apply here.

Grant recipients will be announced on November, 20, 2025.