Departments

Business Sign Grant Program

Program
Overview
Program
Eligibility
Next
Steps
Grant
Application

The City of Augusta and the Augusta Downtown Alliance work in partnership to promote and implement a key initiative, the Business Sign Grant Program. This initiative was created in 2017, when Downtown Augusta was added to the National Register of Historic Places. To celebrate the achievement of this designation, the Augusta Downtown Alliance created a sign grant program to assist new and existing business owners with obtaining new signage. 


The City of Augusta funds this program as part of an effort to revitalize Downtown Augusta, and the program is administered by the city's Bureau of Economic Development in collaboration with the Bureau of Code Enforcement and the Bureau of Planning. 

The way in which this program works is that a business that meets program eligibility requirements can apply for up to $750.00 to go towards new signage. Before an applicant fills out the necessary application materials, they should carefully review the Business Sign Grant Application and then connect with a city staff member to discuss signage needs. Having this preliminary conversation will ensure that the applicant's thoughts and questions are addressed and that next steps are clearly outlined for the applicant's unique needs.


To initiate the application process, to ask questions, or to obtain assistance in completing this application, please contact the Bureau of Economic Development at (207)626-2365.

  • Signs must not be internally installed at business sites
  • Signs must not exceed city-specified dimensions outlined in the Sign Permit Fee Schedule, which is attached to the Sign Permit Form
  • All signs must comply with city ordinance(s), and if applicable, align with findings from the Historic Preservation Commission's Board Review

After meeting with city staff to determine next steps, and after application materials are completed and submitted, the City of Augusta may follow up with you to ask additional questions or to obtain necessary documentation, such as receipts and proof of design. If your application is approved, the Bureau of Economic Development will work to either issue a check before purchase of signage, or the city can provide reimbursement to a valid vendor if the signage has already been purchased.

Please note: All documentation must be submitted before any funds can be dispersed. Sign grant funds do not cover the cost of sign permits. Upon approval of the permit form, a permit fee will be assessed based on the Sign Permit Fee Schedule.

Checklist of Materials Needed for Application:

  • Final Design Proof
  • Invoice/Purchase Order from a valid vendor
  • W-9 from applicant
  • City Sign Permit Application - if applicable
  • Historic District Review Board Form - if applicable