Opportunity Council Districts Small Business Incentive Program
Welcome to the official page for the City of Athens Opportunity Council Districts Small Business Physical Improvement Incentive Program!
This incentive-based economic development initiative is designed to encourage small business growth and spark future investment within retail-stagnant areas of designated city council districts.
If you are a local small business owner looking to make permanent, physical improvements to your commercial property, we are here to help.
How to Apply
Applications will be evaluated on a competitive basis. Follow these steps to submit your application package:
Review the Full Guidelines: Opportunity Council Districts Guidelines
Complete the Application: Open the Fillable Application Form below. You can type your information directly into the document online.
Print & Sign: Once completely filled out, print the document. You (and your property owner, if applicable) will need to physically sign and date the Application Form, Property Owner Consent Form, and the Release and Hold Harmless Agreement.
Gather Required Attachments: Ensure you have included your Itemized Budget (Contractor Quotes/Estimates), Photos of Existing Conditions, and Business License Documentation. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.
Submit the Application: You can drop off completed applications at City Hall located at 200 West Hobbs Street. Please follow the posted signage to the office door where applications can be submitted. Please submit all applications prior to the June 15th deadline.
Program Details at a Glance
Maximum Award: Up to $20,000 per project/property.
Eligible Locations: Projects must be located within City Council District 3 (represented by Councilman James Lucas) or City Council District 5 (represented by Councilwoman Amy Golden).
Application Deadline: June 15, 2026.
Important Note: Incentive funds are intended for future projects; no work should begin on your project until a determination has been made regarding your program participation.
Is My Business Eligible?
To apply for this incentive, your business must meet the following criteria:
Must be a locally owned small business physically located within District 3 or District 5.
Must be a retailer or a non-professional personal service business (e.g., convenience store, restaurant, clothing store, auto repair shop, hair or nail salon).
Must be fully compliant with all City of Athens zoning, building codes, and ordinances.
Must be in good standing with City of Athens taxes, fees, and business licensing, with no outstanding code enforcement violations.
If you are a tenant, you must have the property owner's written consent and hold a long-term lease of three (3) or more years.
Please note: Professional services (lawyers, doctors, accountants, etc.), residential rental businesses, home occupation businesses, and businesses whose primary purpose is the sale of alcohol, tobacco, or controlled substances are not eligible.
What Can the Funds Be Used For?
Funds are strictly for one-time, permanent physical improvements that enhance the business's viability and improve the visual and functional appeal of the area.
Eligible Exterior Improvements:
Façade renovations and exterior painting
Signage or signage upgrades (per city ordinances)
Storefront windows, doors, and lighting
ADA accessibility improvements
Exterior landscaping or parking area improvements directly tied to business frontage
Eligible Interior Improvements:
Code-required upgrades
Permanent interior build-outs tied to business expansion
Electrical, plumbing, or HVAC upgrades related to long-term functionality
(Funds may not be used for operating expenses, rent, payroll, inventory, routine maintenance, un-affixed equipment, or work completed prior to approval.)
Questions?
For questions or clarification, please contact our Program Point of Contact:
Justin Travis, Communications Specialist
📞 (256) 262-1451