Building upon the success of its inaugural year, we are excited to announce the reopening of the Beltz Grant for its second year. Through the Dr. John Beltz Charitable Foundation, a total of $50,000 per year will be allocated for the next three years to facilitate two Watertown Redevelopment Authority (RDA) Grant Programs.
The Beltz Foundation Downtown Watertown Special Events Grant Program and the Beltz Foundation Downtown Watertown Business Grant Program have been established to encourage growth and programming in the Downtown Watertown Redevelopment District Target Area. After the initial three-year commitment, Beltz intends to evaluate the results and may decide to continue the Program at that point.
The Special Events Grant Program offers grants of up to $10,000 per event to public events that meet specific criteria, including attracting more than 150 attendees, contributing to the economic development goals of the area, enhancing the unique identity of downtown Watertown, and promoting business and community involvement.
On the other hand, the Business Grant Program aims to incentivize unique businesses to relocate or expand into the Target Area. Eligible expenses may include capital improvements, renovations, and signage. Preference will be given to businesses aligning with specific categories such as entertainment, family and full-service dining, grab-and-go lunch stops, craft beer, organic and gourmet food stores, and quality merchandise retail establishments.
"Our sincere gratitude to Dr. Beltz for supporting the downtown’s continued revitalization," expressed Mason Becker, Executive Director of the RDA. "The Downtown is experiencing a vibrant rebirth; the opening of the Bentzin Family Town Square was only the beginning of a new chapter for the City. It truly is the optimistic people like John who are taking personal responsibility for the future of this community and those dedicated to the everyday hard work of creating new and unique experiences to bring this community together that we cherish. I join Dr. Beltz and many others in looking forward to what can become."
The reopening of the Beltz Grant signifies another step forward in the ongoing transformation of downtown Watertown. Entrepreneurs, event organizers, and community members are encouraged to apply and be part of this exciting journey toward a thriving and vibrant city center.
Applications for the Beltz Grant are now open, and we eagerly await proposals that will continue to shape the future of downtown Watertown. Fore more information, visit: https://www.watertownredevelopment.org/programs