Dyersburg Façade Improvements and Entrepreneur Development

In 2017, Main Street Dyersburg obtained Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) funding for two initiatives that yielded entrepreneurial development and local business creation. The Dyersburg community received a $100,000 TNECD Façade Improvement Grant (FIG) that supported the renovation of 11 downtown buildings and business storefronts through 20 projects. Improvements ranged from complete storefront rehabilitation to restoration of exterior finishes and window repair as well as painting, canopy and awning installation, and signage. The project improved many iconic buildings by leveraging local investments with FIG funding.

Additionally, the community was awarded funding through TNECD’s Main Street Entrepreneur Grant (MEG) program to establish entrepreneur and co-working services. Dyersburg utilized the funding, along with support from other private and federal partners, to create The Mill Workspace. The Mill is equipped with meeting and conference rooms with conferencing equipment, a makerspace including 3D printers and design software, and a marketing lab including photography and videography equipment to help members market their businesses and livestream their services.

Additional Funding Information:
The Façade Improvement Grant (FIG) has been discontinued, but similar projects to this one can be funded through the TNECD Downtown Improvement Grant (DIG) program. Tennessee Main Street communities and communities that have participated in the Tennessee Downtowns program and have an active design committee are eligible for a grant from TNECD for downtown improvements.

Funding Sources