OAKLAND, ME \u2013 June 25, 2026\u00a0\u2013 Launching its inaugural round of grant funding to support downtown revitalization, the Town of Oakland has awarded $25,000 to three local businesses. This financial support is distributed through the Oakland Fa\u00e7ade & Downtown Improvement Grant Program (OFDIG) to directly spur business and facility investments and strengthen community vibrancy. Funded by the town\u2019s Downtown Tax-Increment Financing (TIF) District, OFDIG provides financial assistance for exterior building and site improvements that enhance the visual appeal, accessibility, and long-term vitality of the commercial center. Structured as a 1:1 required matching reimbursement program, this initial $25,000 grant allocation is expected to stimulate a total of $81,607 in capital improvements within the downtown district.<\/p>\n
This new initiative builds upon recent investments and the expansion of businesses in the downtown district. This growing momentum includes the recent redevelopment and enhancements to the historic Bank Block building on Main Street (at 46 Main St. and 48-52 Main St.). \u201cThese projects represent Oakland\u2019s ongoing commitment to creating a vibrant, welcoming, and resilient downtown,\u201d said Town Manager Kelly Pinney-Michaud. \u201cInvestments like these help ensure that our downtown continues to grow, evolve, and thrive.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cThe launch of Oakland\u2019s first year of the Fa\u00e7ade & Downtown Improvement Grant Program marks a major milestone for the community\u2019s commercial core. With $81,607 in direct investment funded, this inaugural cycle is catalyzing new economic activity, stimulating revitalization, and strengthening the district\u2019s long-term vibrancy,\u201d said Garvan D. Donegan, President & CEO of the Central Maine Growth Council. \u201cRepresenting the operations and management of the downtown TIF district, we will see firsthand how essential these grant programs are in providing the capital necessary for property owners \u2013 and business owners \u2013 to enhance their buildings and attract customers. This initiative is a critical economic development tool, highlighting the importance of place-based investment to attract new enterprises and stimulate broader private capital investment throughout Oakland\u2019s commercial downtown core.\u201d<\/p>\n
These grants were awarded following a competitive review process that evaluated applicants based on project readiness, community impact, and alignment with Oakland\u2019s downtown revitalization goals. To encourage widespread economic growth, the program awards bonus points to new businesses and investors. In future funding rounds, bonus points will also be given to businesses and property owners who have not yet received an award. The selected improvements reflect OFDIG\u2019s mission to help businesses reinvest in their storefronts, restore architectural character, and enhance the usability of their properties. Building on this initial success, the Town looks forward to making future fa\u00e7ade and building improvement awards to continually increase the vibrancy of the downtown district.<\/p>\n
2026 Grant Recipients & Project Summaries<\/p>\n
Together, the following three businesses represent the first round of funding awarded through the OFDIG program. Each business is undertaking improvements that will collectively elevate Oakland\u2019s downtown experience for visitors and residents alike.<\/p>\n
HB Insurance<\/p>\n
Project:\u00a0Fa\u00e7ade Building Repainting<\/p>\n
HB Insurance will receive OFDIG funding to repaint the front fa\u00e7ade of their building. This project will refresh the property\u2019s appearance, contributing to a more cohesive and visually appealing downtown aesthetic while preserving the building\u2019s structural integrity.<\/p>\n
\u201cThank you to the town of Oakland for this program. This investment helps our businesses maximize our investment and keep our building looking great for years to come.\u201d \u2013 Matt Marquis, CPCU Agency Principal, HB Insurance.<\/p>\n
Maine\u2011ly Docks<\/p>\n
Project: Signage and Safety<\/p>\n
Maine\u2011ly Docks has been awarded funding to install a new free\u2011standing roadside sign, a building\u2011mounted sign, and install exterior security cameras. These updates will significantly improve customer visibility, enhance wayfinding, and bolster on\u2011site safety\u2014areas emphasized within OFDIG as essential to supporting business growth and creating a welcoming commercial corridor.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe truly appreciate this opportunity and the confidence the Town has placed in our business. Enhanced signage and security will help us better serve our customers and create a more welcoming presence in the community. This support makes a real difference, and we\u2019re thankful for the chance to continue growing in Oakland.\u201d \u2013 Shawn Stevens, Owner, Maine-ly Docks.<\/p>\n
Central Maine Footcare<\/p>\n
Project: Signage, Awning, and Exterior Improvements<\/p>\n
Central Maine Footcare will receive funding for a comprehensive series of improvements designed to strengthen both the aesthetics and signage of their property. The project includes re-siding the building\u2019s front fa\u00e7ade, installing a new awning, and relocating the business sign to improve site circulation and parking functionality.<\/p>\n
We are grateful to the Town of Oakland for its investment in the small business community. This grant will help us improve the appearance of our business.\u201d \u2013 Lisa Nelson, RN, BSN, CFCN, Founder, Central Maine Footcare.<\/p>\n