PITTSFIELD, Mass. — 1Berkshire, thanks to a one-time grant award, announced the launch of applications for a new pilot program to support the installation of printed vinyl artwork in vacant downtown buildings in Berkshire communities. 

 

This program aims to provide up to three municipalities/organizations with sub-award grants of up to $5,000 in order to support them in the selection, commissioning, and installation of printed works of art in vacant downtown storefronts for the summer of 2023. This effort is meant to both contribute to the aesthetic beauty of downtown business districts, while also drawing attention to the opportunities that these vacant spaces offer to potential new small businesses and organizations looking for a physical location to move into. 

 

Only one grant will be awarded to implement this effort in any given municipality. Applicants may be municipalities themselves, non-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, or non-organization individuals with a proven track record of similar project execution. Applications are open now and will close on March 3rd, 2023. Selected applicants must complete all related work by June 30, 2023. 

 

"We are excited to pilot this program here in the region as a way to both contribute to the quality of experience in our downtowns, and to really help create organic connections between emerging small businesses and commercial landlords with available space," Benjamin Lamb, 1Berkshire Director of Economic Development said. "This could be a great case study about leveraging our intrinsic creative spirit in the Berkshires and how that can also directly drive new economic opportunities across a spectrum of business types." 

 

To learn more and apply, visit: https://forms.gle/PaGryhVE3TM37sP38