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Aitkin County launches two small‑business grant programs for 2026
Summary
Aitkin County announced two countywide grants for small businesses in 2026: the Business Development & Recreation grant (about $100–$2,000, 1:1 match; applications open through May 31, 2026) and the Business Revitalization grant ($1,000–$5,000, 1:1 match; awarded until funds are exhausted).
Mark Jeffers, Aitkin County economic development coordinator, announced two countywide grant programs aimed at supporting local businesses and tourism for 2026.
Jeffers said the Business Development and Recreation grant will return for 2026 to help events and activities that attract visitors. "This grant is available now through 05/31/2026," he said, adding that the awards are intended for projects that generate incremental tourism and economic activity in the county.
The Business Development & Recreation grant offers awards ranging from about $100 to $2,000 per application and requires a 1:1 local match, meaning applicants must provide matching funds equal to the grant award. Jeffers said the program can be used for event marketing and other activities that promote sustained small‑business development through tourism.
Jeffers emphasized the program is countywide and not limited to the county seat, explicitly naming Hill City, McGregor, McGrath, Palisade, Malmo and Tamarac as communities served. He gave examples of eligible projects, such as annual recreation or tourism events, and mentioned an ATV trail event as the kind of activity the county wants to support.
The second program, the Business Revitalization grant, is designed to help existing for‑profit businesses improve storefronts and exterior features — for example, replacing worn awnings or updating signage. Awards for the revitalization grant range from $1,000 to $5,000 per application and also require a 1:1 match. Jeffers said the last time the program ran several businesses used the funds to repaint and remodel exteriors.
Jeffers said the revitalization program will continue until funds are exhausted and directed interested applicants to the Aitkin County Economic Development website for application details and the simple application form he described.
"Please get your grant applications in," Jeffers said, urging businesses to take advantage of the funding and the commissioners' support for responsible growth. He identified himself at the close of the segment as Mark Jeffers, Aitkin County economic development coordinator.
