News Summary
Detroit has initiated Round 2 of the Legacy Business Project, providing $310,000 in grants for long-established businesses. The initiative supports firms that have played a crucial role in the city’s cultural heritage for over 30 years. Grants up to $50,000 aim to assist businesses with modernization and operational needs, with applications open until October 6, 2025. The program is designed to bolster business succession planning. This funding opportunity follows a successful first round that saw 16 businesses receive grants.
Detroit Launches Round 2 of the Legacy Business Project
The City of Detroit has officially launched Round 2 of the Legacy Business Project, which will distribute $310,000 in grants to long-established businesses within the city. This initiative, in collaboration with the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation, aims to provide financial support to businesses that have been an integral part of Detroit’s cultural identity for over 30 years.
The grants, which will range from $2,500 to $50,000, are intended to aid existing businesses in various areas such as purchasing equipment, enhancing technology, or improving storefronts. The application process for interested businesses opened on August 25, 2025, and will remain open until October 6, 2025, at 8 a.m.. A total of 30Â grants will be awarded, with recipients being announced on November 20, 2025.
Target Audience and Goals
This program specifically targets businesses, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, corporations, limited liability companies, and faith-based organizations engaged in licensed activities. Additionally, non-profit organizations that have been providing products or services for at least 30 years are eligible to apply. The program has been designed to support families, businesses, and communities that rely on these legacy establishments.
One of the key goals of the Legacy Business Project is to assist in business succession planning. Nationally, it has been reported that two-thirds of family-owned businesses lack documented succession plans. By providing grants and support, the city aims to help ensure that these businesses can continue to thrive into the future.
Enhancements to the Application Process
Recognizing the obstacles that small businesses face when seeking financial assistance, the city has taken steps to streamline the application process. This initiative is designed to reduce unnecessary paperwork and make it easier for small shops to access funding, facilitating a smoother and more efficient experience for applicants.
Previous Success
This current round of funding follows the success of the first round, which took place in March 2025, where 16 businesses received funding. The ongoing commitment from the City of Detroit to support small business development is reflective of the city’s strategy to foster economic growth and maintain the character of its neighborhoods.
Significance for the Community
Support for small businesses is seen as a crucial driver for economic development, not just for the businesses themselves but also for the communities they serve. By backing these long-established businesses, Detroit aims to preserve its unique cultural landscape and provide crucial resources for the families and individuals who have invested their lives into these enterprises. These legacy businesses not only provide essential services but are also a source of identity and pride for Detroit’s neighborhoods.
As the application deadline approaches, small business owners in Detroit are encouraged to consider applying for the grants to secure needed funding and support their operational and succession needs. The Legacy Business Project is an important opportunity for long-time businesses to thrive and strengthen their role in the community.
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Additional Resources
- Click On Detroit: Detroit Invests $310,000 in Legacy Businesses
- Wikipedia: Small Business
- Black Enterprise: Gilbert Foundation Boosts Black Businesses in Detroit
- Google Search: Detroit Legacy Business Grants
- Detroit Chamber: July Small Business Grants
- Google Scholar: Detroit Economic Growth
- Detroit Free Press: How Detroit Startups Can Apply for Grants
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business
- AfroTech: Gilbert Family Foundation Invests in Detroit Businesses
- Google News: Detroit Business Funding
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
