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DRI Rent
Assistance

The Watertown downtown revitalization initiative is providing rent assistance to businesses who meet the required criteria.

Also check out our Façade Renovation Program!

Businesses seeking to apply for funding through the WLDC’s Rent Assistance Program must submit a formal application and meet all the following criteria to be eligible for funding:

The proposed business must meet one of the following criteria:

  • The business must be a new business venture or;
  • The business must be an existing business that is proposing to relocate from outside of the City of Watertown municipal boundary to a location within the DRI Boundary or;
  • The business must be an existing business located outside of the DRI Boundary that is willing to open a location within the boundary.

In its application for funding and/or business plan, the proposed business must demonstrate its impact on the downtown area. Key considerations in demonstrating impact include:

  • The number of clients/patrons expected to visit the business daily.
  • How the project/business fills a niche market and/or diversifies offerings available in downtown.
  • Overall investment in the building/lease area.
  • Number of jobs to be created.

Governmental agencies and not for profits are not eligible for this program.

Boundary Map

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Interested in Rent Assistance?

If you are interested in our Rent Assistance program, you can apply online, or contact us if you would like more information.
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New York State Homes & Community Renewal