Rhode Island Commerce Opens Applications for Commercial Improvement Grants

Main Street and Site Readiness programs invest in local business districts and key site development; deadline to apply is Friday, May 29

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – April 20, 2026 – Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor and Rhode Island Commerce today announced the opening of a new application period for its Main Street RI Streetscape Improvement Fund (Main Street) and Site Readiness programs. These programs strengthen Rhode Island’s economy by revitalizing local business districts and preparing key sites across the state for development.

“Investing in our communities is essential to building a stronger, more competitive economy,” said Governor McKee. “These two programs provide resources that can help transform underutilized properties and strengthen local commercial districts throughout our state.”

The Main Street RI Streetscape Improvement Fund enhances the vitality of Rhode Island’s local business districts. Grants are available to developers, nonprofits, and private entities to support projects which improve the appearance, accessibility, and overall appeal of Rhode Island’s commercial corridors. Projects can include upgrades like new sidewalks, improved lighting, landscaping, signage, and accessibility improvements. Municipalities may also use program funds towards technical assistance to support future physical improvements to streetscape projects.

The Site Readiness Program provides funding to municipalities, public agencies, and other stakeholders to help ready underutilized or vacant sites ready for development. Program funds can be used for, among other things, improving infrastructure and conducting feasibility studies to help accelerate development and attract investment. This program aligns with efforts to enhance the state’s competitiveness and provide businesses with “shovel-ready” sites to encourage faster and more efficient project execution.

“It’s important for us to invest in the main streets and development sites that have the potential to propel our local communities forward,” said Secretary of Commerce Stefan Pryor. “Through these programs, we're partnering with municipalities and other stakeholders to build the kind of places which attract businesses and generate economic activity."

To date, Commerce has awarded more than $9 million through the Main Street fund and more than $5 million through the Site Readiness program. Applicants can submit for one or both programs. For more information, visit or contact:

Main Street 
website: commerceri.com/main-street-ri-streetscape-improvement-fund
email MainStreet@CommerceRI.com

Site Readiness
website: commerceri.com/site-readiness
email: SiteReadiness@CommerceRI.com

Contact: Giselle Mahoney
(401) 545-0626
giselle.mahoney.ctr@commerce.ri.gov