The council said it was using £150,000 of business rates to pay for the scheme and that priority would be given to traders with “heritage value” applying from within the Kent town’s conservation area.
Grants of more than £10,000 will be considered if the project supports the council’s “town centre vision”.
Councillor Stephen Thompson, cabinet member for healthier stronger communities, said: “Attractive shopfronts are one of the most powerful ways to draw people in and boost trade, particularly when they respect and enhance the character of the building they sit within.
“Making our town centre visually appealing, while celebrating its historic fabric, is essential to creating a vibrant and welcoming environment and ensuring Maidstone remains a great place to shop.”