First Impressions:
Whether your viewer is online, on the sidewalk, or on the other side of the street, the impression your business makes will create a lasting impact on the purchasing habits of customers. You need to make a strong, well-branded, cohesive impression on every person who steps through the door to ensure they leave happy and return many times to come. The First Impressions Program funds projects that promote a lasting and genuine first impression of Livingston County’s communities and businesses. The program contributes to creating a sense of place for residents and visitors alike while improving economic vitality. This program focuses on funding one of three services: sign and facade, digital, and design. Eligible businesses must have a physical location within Livingston County and be open for at least 20 hours/week. This program is not intended to fund general maintenance projects.
Program Description
The First Impressions Program funds projects that promote a lasting and genuine first impression of Livingston County’s communities and businesses. The program contributes to creating a sense of place for residents, businesses, and visitors along with driving the economy for future success. This program focuses on funding one of three services: sign and facade, digital, and design. Eligible businesses must have a physical location within Livingston County and be open for at least 20 hours/week.
The First Impressions Program provides reimbursement for several types of projects - click on each box below for further details:
Downtown Sign & Facade Project
Business Design Project
Tourism Sign & Facade Project
Building Design Project
Digital Project
Projects undertaken prior to receiving formal approval will not be eligible for funding. If project funding is awarded the final scope of work must be approved by Livingston County Development Corporation (LCDC) before the project can begin. For a project located in a downtown district, all improvements must follow the Livingston County Downtown Design Guidelines to ensure compatibility with the existing Main Street, helping to create a uniform and coordinated streetscape that is attractive and functional.
All applicants must be current on all County, Town, Village and School real property taxes in order to be eligible to participate. If an applicant has previously received First Impressions funding, that project must be complete prior to applying again.
Depending on your scope of work, you may need to apply to the Village or Town for a building permit. If your project includes any signage, you will need to apply to the Village or Town for a signage permit. While permits do not need to be submitted with your First Impressions Program application, they must be in place before any work can begin.
Livingston County Economic Development is accepting First Impressions Applications on a rolling basis starting Monday, March 4, 2024.
All projects that are approved for funding must be completed by November 15, 2024.
Applicants are encouraged to watch the video below prior to applying.
“We are looking for projects that are transformative… a carved perpendicular sign, a colorful awning, or additional display window lighting can transform a storefront and has been proven to impact sales and traffic in the community. We are also looking for permanent public art projects that reflect the character and culture of the community.”
