(WNY News Now) – The City of Jamestown is accepting applications for up to $50,000 in ROI Jamestown grants to support commercial property and business improvements.

JAMESTOWN, N.Y. — The City of Jamestown Department of Development has opened a new application period for ROI Jamestown: Reinvestment for Opportunity & Impact, a competitive grant program supporting investment in local businesses and commercial properties.

Applications will be accepted through 4 p.m. Wednesday, September 30, 2026.

The program, formerly known as the Restore, Adapt, Develop Jamestown (RAD) Grant Program, is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program.

ROI Jamestown is designed to encourage private investment, support small businesses and entrepreneurs, improve commercial properties, and help sustain or create jobs in the city.

Grants are generally available for up to $50,000, although final awards will depend on available funding, the number of applications received and eligible project costs.

Priority consideration will be given to projects in the Downtown Central Business District, along major city corridors, and in industrial buildings occupied by businesses that retain or create jobs.

Eligible projects may include:

• Building renovations and improvements
• Exterior improvements, lighting and signage
• Roof, masonry, HVAC and mechanical work
• Accessibility improvements
• Interior commercial build-outs
• Permanently installed fixtures and equipment
• Eligible machinery purchases
• Certain development activities that promote job creation

Applications will be evaluated based on factors including job creation and retention, return on investment, business impact and stability, community benefit, sustainability and resiliency, and the applicant’s investment in the project.

Economic Development Coordinator Aili Makuch said the program is intended to help local businesses improve or expand operations, purchase equipment, improve accessibility and maintain existing jobs.

The city said the new ROI Jamestown name reflects its focus on strategic reinvestment, economic opportunity and measurable community impact.

Completed applications and all required documentation must be submitted by 4 p.m. September 30. Applications may be submitted electronically to the City’s Economic Development Coordinator or delivered to the Department of Development.

Business owners and commercial property owners seeking information about eligibility or potential projects can contact Aili Makuch at 716-338-0040 or makuch@jamestownny.gov.

Application materials and program information are available through the City of Jamestown website.