Green Grocer Project Offers Funding to Upgrade Detroit Stores

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The Green Grocer Project, an initiative of Detroit Economic Growth Corp., is offering matching grants of up to $50,000 to Detroit-based grocery stores looking to update and enhance their storefronts.

“Detroit’s grocers have been freshening up the interiors of their stores and bringing in fresh new products, and they’ve told us their priority now is putting a fresh look on their facades,” says Mimi Pledl, program manager for the Green Grocer Project. “Investments in exterior improvements can increase a store’s value to the community and attract more customers.”

The façade improvement program aims to help transform the exteriors of Detroit’s neighborhood grocery stores through seasonal landscaping, new exterior materials, inviting signage and awnings, and decorative windows and displays.

Pledl says façade improvements can also enhance the security of the store via improved lighting, welcoming and safe entrances, and open parking spaces.

The Green Grocer Project first launched in 2010 to assist grocers in addressing operational and store development needs to improve the overall quality of shopping experiences and access to fresh food.

For more information, visit greengrocerproject.org. Potential applicants can call 313-237-6092 or email GreenGrocer@DEGC.org.