The College Township Industrial Development Authority (CTIDA) is now accepting applications for the Fall 2025 Small Business Grant Program, a reinvestment initiative designed to strengthen the small business community along the Gateway Corridor of East College Avenue.
With $25,000 in available funding, the program will provide grants of up to $5,000 (with a required 50/50 match) to eligible small businesses to support façade improvements, landscaping, signage, lighting and other beautification projects that enhance the corridor’s visual appeal.
The CTIDA awarded the first two grants through the program earlier this year to Your Building Center and Bonfire Old Fashioned BBQ. Each business received $5,000 to make enhancements to their properties, including façade upgrades, sidewalk improvements and new digital signage. The projects mark the beginning of the CTIDA’s strategic investment in the Gateway Corridor and highlight the program’s goals to boost economic vibrancy, attract customers and create a more welcoming entryway to the State College area.
“Our small business community is the foundation of the Gateway Corridor,” Keri Kenepp, executive director of the CTIDA, said in a news release. “By investing in visible improvements like updated facades and signage, we’re not only helping businesses attract new customers but also strengthening the overall character and vitality of this important gateway into our region.”
Applications for the Fall 2025 grant cycle opened on Monday, Sept. 1, and close on Tuesday, Sept. 2025. Applicants will be notified of awards on or after Wednesday, Oct. 15, 2025.
To be eligible, businesses must be located in the Gateway Corridor of East College Avenue with street frontage. Priority will be given to locally owned, independently operated businesses, and collaborative projects between neighboring businesses will be looked upon favorably.
Applications are available both in paper form at the College Township Municipal Building (1481 E. College Avenue, Attn: Keri Kenepp) and digitally through the CTIDA website or the QR code provided on promotional materials.
For more information about the program, eligibility requirements or to apply, visit ctida.com or contact the CTIDA at admin@ctida.com or (814) 208-4124.
