​Local Economic Development Act (LEDA) for Retail

We are excited to announce the launch of our new LEDA for Retail Initiative on September 2, 2025. This new initiative is designed to help qualifying local businesses grow and keep more of our spending right here in the community instead of off the hill. Through grants ranging from $20,000 to $100,000, it supports the County Council’s goals to strengthen economic vitality and support local businesses, while also responding to what we’ve heard from residents: more retail choices in the areas of food service, clothing, health and personal care, as well as tourism-related services.

What types of businesses are eligible for Retail LEDA?

Eligible applicants include local businesses or property owners that:

• Provide food services, clothing/apparel, personal and health services, or cultural and recreational tourism experiences.
• Demonstrate capital investment and long-term commitment.
• Are current on all tax obligations and compliant with environmental regulations.
• Can provide three years of financials, or a business plan with pro forma if newly established.

What type of projects could be eligible?

Some examples of projects that could be eligible are:

• Storefront upgrades
• Accessibility improvements
• Building improvements
• New equipment

How to Apply

1. Begin by reading the Retail LEDA Handbook to understand the requirements and guidelines.
   
2. Complete the short online prescreening questionnaire (six questions).
   
3. Receive the full application. If your business and project meet the prescreening requirements, we’ll email you the full application and a checklist of supporting documents.
   
4. Submit your application. Once received, our office will review it to ensure all program requirements are satisfied. You’ll then be notified of the next steps.