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Match on Main
Match on Main is part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) broader community development efforts to support vibrant, resilient, and inclusive downtowns and commercial districts across Michigan.
The program provides reimbursement-based grant funding of up to $25,000 per project to support new and expanding place-based small businesses, while leveraging local leadership and community-driven selection. Through partnerships with local communities, Match on Main helps small businesses grow while strengthening Michigan’s downtowns and commercial districts.
Match on Main Impact
The Match on Main has worked to help current and future place-based small businesses thrive. Here's how the program stands out above others.
$5.9M of funding
have been contributed since 2019.
91% of Small Businesses
are still in business after the program.
$20M in private investment
have been leveraged from awarded businesses.
$58,200 average annual revenue
increases per awarded business.
Match on Main is a reimbursement-only grant program administered by the MEDC. Grant funding supports defined, place-based projects that help activate commercial districts, encourage private investment, and strengthen local economies.
Small businesses do not apply directly to MEDC. This locally administered approach ensures funding decisions are community-driven and aligned with local priorities. Instead, eligible communities identify and support local businesses through a locally administered selection process.
Eligible Applicant Organizations
Applications are submitted by an eligible Applicant Organization, which may include:
Applicant Organizations apply on behalf of a selected business located within their downtown or commercial district.
Eligible Communities
Applicant Organizations must represent communities designated as either:
Match on Main is a reimbursement-only grant program.
Match on Main supports place-based projects that strengthen downtown businesses and activate commercial space, including:
All expenses must align with the approved project scope and program guidelines.
Anticipated Application Window:
March 1, 2026 – April 24, 2026*
Applicant Organizations
Small Businesses
Contact your local downtown organization, municipality, or Main Street program to learn about Match on Main opportunities in your community
Apply now for Match on Main
Click here*The Match on Main application deadline has been extended to Friday, April 24 at 5:00 PM to allow additional time for communities to complete and submit applications.
Please note that the application portal is intended for use by eligible Applicant Organizations only (e.g., Redevelopment Ready Communities and Michigan Main Street communities). All application entries and required uploads must be completed and submitted by the Applicant Organization.
Applications submitted directly by small businesses will not be considered. Small businesses interested in applying should work directly with their local community to be included in a submission.
Resources and Forms
The community marketing toolkit is a copy-first, compliance-safe asset that local communities and DDAs can use to promote the program locally. Download for content language examples including: website, emails, newsletters and social media.
Access the Community Marketing Toolkit
Download HereIf you are looking for information regarding how to submit your application, application eligibility, uses of funds, etc., then please reference the program application process video below.
CORRECTION NOTE: The application window closes Monday, April 20th at 5pm.
Match on Main works in coordination with other MEDC community development initiatives, including:
