City of Northampton Invites Letters of Intent for Vacant Storefront Program
NORTHAMPTON – The City of Northampton, recognized as a designated Vacant Storefront District by the Economic Assistance Coordinating Council (EACC), is pleased to announce the opening of interest for its Vacant Storefront Program. This initiative encourages businesses and individuals to express their interest in leasing and occupying vacant storefronts that have been unoccupied for a minimum of twelve months.
“I am proud to continue this important initiative that assists two businesses that are investing in Northampton and are helping to restore our downtown economy by filling a storefront that has been vacant for at least a year,” shared Mayor Sciarra. “With the welcome support of the City Council, I am pleased to partner with the state for a second year of this terrific program.”
The Vacant Storefront Program is part of the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), offering refundable tax credits, matching municipal support up to $10,000, for businesses or individuals looking to occupy a vacant storefront. To qualify, businesses or individuals must locate within the city’s Vacant Storefront District and apply to the EACC. Locations are considered vacant if unoccupied for at least 12 months, with the general area of focus being the Central Business District. Eligible applicants are invited to submit Letters of Intent to the Mayor’s Office by April 30, 2024. The EACC meeting deadline for a full application is May 15, 2024, with consideration at the June 20, 2024, meeting.
Prospective recipients are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent, addressing three key aspects:
Value to the Local Business Community: Articulate how your potential business will contribute to and enhance the local business environment.
Filling a Need/Void in the Downtown/Central Business District: Clearly outline how your project addresses a specific need or void within the downtown area, contributing to its overall vibrancy.
Synergy with Existing Downtown Businesses: Detail potential synergies and collaborations with other businesses in the downtown area, fostering a cooperative and thriving business community.
Businesses or individuals targeting vacant, first-floor storefronts within the Vacant Storefront District are eligible to apply. To determine eligible locations or inquire about storefront availability, please contact Annie Lesko at alesko@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1212 or Alan Wolf at awolf@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1067. Mayor Sciarra will select two qualifying projects to move forward for consideration.
The City of Northampton is committed to fostering economic growth and vibrancy in the heart of downtown. We encourage all eligible businesses and individuals to seize this opportunity. For more information about the program and additional requirements, please visit: https://northamptonma.gov/2480/MA-Vacant-Storefront-Program-MVSP, or contact the Mayor’s Office at mayor@northamptonma.gov or 413-587-1249.
