New Brownsville grant program offers small businesses up to $30K for exterior upgrades

The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation is expanding its small business improvement efforts beyond downtown with the launch of the BIG LIFT Program, a new citywide grant initiative that will reimburse eligible businesses for exterior property improvements.

The program offers one-time grants covering up to 80% of approved project costs, with reimbursements capped at $30,000. Business owners must fund projects upfront and will be reimbursed after completing the work and submitting required documentation.

BCIC officials said the program is designed to build on the success of the city’s downtown-focused BIG Property Improvement Grant Program by extending support to commercial corridors and neighborhoods throughout Brownsville.

“The BIG LIFT Program extends the momentum of downtown revitalization into commercial corridors and neighborhoods throughout Brownsville by supporting façade and site improvements that enhance visual appeal and economic vitality,” BCIC officials said in the program guidelines.

Eligible improvements include exterior painting, façade renovations, new doors and windows, signage, landscaping, parking lot resurfacing, outdoor seating areas, murals and exterior lighting.

The program is open to locally owned, independently operated businesses with fewer than 20 employees that have been operating for at least two years within Brownsville city limits. Property owners and business tenants may apply, although tenants must provide notarized authorization from the property owner.

Bars and taverns may qualify if they hold a valid Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission mixed beverage permit and food and beverage certificate showing that food service is their primary business activity.

Businesses located within the boundaries of the city’s existing downtown BIG Program are not eligible and must apply through the downtown program instead.

Grant recipients must contribute at least 20% of project costs. Projects must have a minimum total cost of $2,000, and any costs exceeding the program’s reimbursement cap remain the responsibility of the applicant.

Funding is limited and applications will be reviewed competitively based on factors including visual impact, project readiness, business need and alignment with targeted commercial corridors.

The program will roll out in phases by Brownsville City Commission district. 

Applications for businesses located in District 1 opened June 1 and close July 10. District 2 applications will open Sept. 1 and close Oct. 9, followed by District 3 from Dec. 1 through Jan. 15, 2027, and District 4 from March 1 through April 19, 2027.

BCIC staff will review the first round of applications during July and August, with funding recommendations expected to go before the board in August.

Approved projects must be completed within nine months of receiving a notice to proceed.

Grant recipients will also be required to submit payroll and sales tax reporting for two years following project completion.

BCIC officials said the initiative is intended to encourage private investment, strengthen neighborhood commercial districts and improve the appearance of business corridors throughout the city.

Applications are available through BCIC’s website.