Business Support & Technical Assistance
Interested in starting your business in downtown Augusta? We’re here to help!
Partner With the Augusta Downtown Alliance
Downtown Augusta thrives because of strong local businesses working together. The Augusta Downtown Alliance partners with businesses that are committed to strengthening our downtown community, supporting economic growth, and enhancing the overall experience for residents and visitors.
We do not operate through a formal application process. Instead, we invite businesses to connect with us directly to explore partnership opportunities and collaborative initiatives.
If you're interested in being part of the momentum downtown, we’d love to hear from you.
Grow With Downtown
Increase Your Visibility
Partner businesses gain exposure through Augusta Downtown Alliance promotions, community campaigns, social media features, and event marketing that highlight what makes your business unique.
Be Featured in Downtown Initiatives
From seasonal events to coordinated promotions, we actively drive foot traffic and digital engagement toward our partner businesses, helping increase both visibility and customer reach.
Connect in a Close-Knit Business Network
Downtown Augusta thrives on collaboration. As a partner, you become part of a supportive, small-town network of business owners working together to strengthen the local economy.
Build Long-Term Growth
Through consistent promotion, community engagement, and shared momentum, we help create sustained traffic and long-term brand recognition for businesses invested in downtown Augusta.
Resources & Incentives
Downtown Augusta offers financial tools and redevelopment incentives designed to help property owners and businesses invest with confidence. Whether you are restoring a historic building, upgrading your storefront, or planning a larger-scale development, these programs are intended to support long-term economic growth in our downtown district.
Historic Preservation Tax Credits
In 2017, the Water Street Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places. As a result, qualifying buildings within the district may be eligible for both federal and State of Maine Historic Preservation Tax Credits.
These credits can significantly offset the cost of approved rehabilitation and restoration projects while preserving the architectural character that defines downtown Augusta.
To determine eligibility or begin the process, contact the Maine State Historic Preservation Office .
Historic Preservation Grants
National Register designation also makes certain downtown properties eligible for historic preservation grant opportunities that support façade improvements, structural rehabilitation, and historically appropriate upgrades.
Program summaries are available through the Maine Historic Preservation Commission.
If you are interested in pursuing one of these grants, the Augusta Downtown Alliance may be able to collaborate or provide guidance throughout the process.
Business Sign Grant Program
To enhance Water Street’s historic character and improve storefront visibility, the Augusta Downtown Alliance partnered with the City of Augusta to establish a Business Sign Grant Program.
Eligible new and existing businesses may apply for up to $750 toward new exterior signage. The program helps improve curb appeal, strengthen branding, and increase foot traffic along the downtown corridor.
For eligibility requirements or to begin an application, visit the City of Augusta Business Sign Grant page .
Downtown TIF & Credit Enhancement Agreements
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a strategic economic development tool used by municipalities to encourage investment. Much of Downtown Augusta falls within the City’s designated Downtown TIF District.
Qualifying development or redevelopment projects may be eligible for a Credit Enhancement Agreement (CEA), which allows a portion of new property tax revenue generated by a project to be returned to the developer to offset eligible project costs.
CEAs are typically reserved for larger-scale redevelopment projects that generate significant job creation or capital investment.
For more information, contact the City of Augusta Economic Development Bureau at (207) 626-2365.
Connect With Downtown
Looking for space to start, relocate, or expand your business? Tell us a bit about your business and what you’re looking for — we’ll help you find the right space in downtown Augusta.
Explore Downtown Augusta
Experience the vibrancy of downtown Augusta! Discover shops, restaurants, and historic spaces while seeing firsthand why businesses thrive here.
Plan Your VisitDowntown Events Calendar
Take a look and see what we have coming up, come join us and be a part of the downtown family.
Check Events