Lebanon Mayor Rick Bell announces new local grant initiative

The Local Grant Initiative aims to encourage the revitalization of buildings, with a specific focus on enhancing the aesthetics of the City’s Commercial District. This includes areas such as the historic district, downtown, Main Street and along Highways 231 North and 231 South.

“This local grant initiative and application has been in development for many months by the IDB,” Mayor Bell said. “The Lebanon City Council and I are confident that the IDB will thoroughly vet all applicants and award grants based on merit.”

The IDB was established to oversee and manage incentives that will help Lebanon attract the types of businesses it desires. In addition to managing this Local Grant Initiative, the board consists of eight Lebanon residents, with Jessica Fain serving as chair.

“This is an excellent opportunity for small business owners in Lebanon. We hope to see many businesses benefit from the revitalization efforts offered by this grant,” Economic Development Director Sarah Haston said. “With the support of the Mayor and Lebanon City Council, I hope to see an increase in funding for the Local Grant Initiative as we move forward.”

Small business owners interested in applying must complete a Local Grant Initiative Application. All applications are due by Thursday, May 1, 2025. The total of $50,000 is available for grants during this remaining fiscal year, ending June 2025. However, applicants are encouraged to submit worthy proposals of any amount. The nature of the applications received could help inform future funding for local grants.

The application can be downloaded from the city’s website at www.lebanontn.org, navigate to Business, Economic Development. For additional questions, please contact Sarah Haston, Economic Development Director at 615-443-2809 Ext 2122. Final applications and deliverables should be sent to Ashley Walling, Economic & Community Development Coordinator at ashley.walling@lebanontn.org.