Since 2019, BCIC’s Business Improvement & Growth (BIG) Program has invested over $4.3 million across 120 projects, helping spark more than $37 million in private investment and new activity in Historic Downtown Brownsville. These efforts have played a major role in the momentum we’re seeing today, as downtown reclaims its place as the hub and heart of our city.
The BIG Program continues our commitment to working hand in hand with property and business owners who are investing in Brownsville. Our goal remains the same: to create spaces where entrepreneurs can thrive, support established businesses, preserve the character of our historic core, and build experiences that celebrate our culture and community.
The BIG Program offers reimbursable matching grants to downtown property owners and tenants investing in rehabilitating commercial buildings within the BIG Program Boundaries. The program aims to strengthen downtown’s economic activity by offering incentives to preserve existing buildings and prevent further deterioration, prep vacant spaces for occupancy and reduce vacancies, and promote mixed-use development by activating multi-story buildings.
Eligible activities include:
Eligible applicants may stack the various grants listed above.
*Rental Reinvestment grants are available only to tenants.
The BIG Program includes three (3) distinct property improvement grant structures designed to meet a range of investment needs in Historic Downtown Brownsville, as well as a rental reimbursement program to assist tenants with employer retention and business operating expenses.
