ABOUT
The City of Columbus, through the Department of Development
and in partnership with the Neighborhood Design Center (NDC),
are now accepting submissions from small businesses in urban
corridors for the Power of One program.
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This program offers a one-time grant of up to $10,000 for design services and implementation of exterior improvements - with a required 10% match contributed by the grantee. For example, if the total project cost is $10,000, the grantee would be awarded $9,000 through the Power of One grant and would be responsible for contributing $1,000 out of pocket.
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Once a business is selected, the NDC will provide design concepts and facilitate support from the applicable neighborhood review board (Area Commission) and approval from the City's departments. Implementation includes cost estimation, material procurement, volunteer coordination, and contractor(s).
Scroll to see the application process, the eligibility requirements,
preferred qualifications, and the Power of One application form.
APPLY TO RECIEVE A POWER OF ONE GRANT PROJECT.
Applications are currently closed, but will reopen soon. To stay up to date on the next cycle of Power of One, join our mailing list and receive first notice on changes for the 2026 cycle.
APPLICATIONS ARE CURRENTLY CLOSED.
However, there are still a few things your business can do to prepare for the 2026 cycle.
1
Ensure your business is up to date with proper Columbus Taxes.
2
Prepare to match 10% of the grant reward into the improvements.
3
Reach out to a volunteer network to help aid in implementing the renovations.
APPLICATION PROCESS
ELIGIBILITY
REQUIREMENTS
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Located in the City of Columbus
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Businesses must be current on city taxes and able to provide tax returns from the last two years.
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Must be in business for 1-year
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For-Profit business
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Can provide a 10% out-of-pocket contribution toward the total project cost unless a formal exemption has been granted
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Ability to provide volunteer labor for implementation
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
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Located in Opportunity Neighborhood
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MBE, WBE, Veteran-Owned, LGBTQIA-owned, or other minority-certified business
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Have not received funds from City/DoD Programs (i.e. NCR)