SEEC Announces 2026 Curb Appeal Program: Applications Open for Main Street Façade Improvements - $5,000 Matching Grants Available to Transform Schoharie Co.'s Commercial District

SCHOHARIE – Schoharie Economic Enterprise Corp (SEEC) is pleased to announce the launch of its 2026 Placemaking: Curb Appeal Program, inviting commercial property owners and commercial tenants across Schoharie County to apply for matching grants up to $5,000 for exterior building improvements.

Building on the remarkable success of the program's first two years—which invested over $200,000 into 24 local businesses—the 2026 program continues SEEC's mission to revitalize Main Street corridors and hamlet districts throughout the county.

Program Highlights

The Curb Appeal Program offers:

• Matching grants up to $5,000 (50% cost share) for façade and exterior improvements
• Free design consultations (valued up to $750)
• Priority consideration for projects in historic districts

"The transformation we've witnessed over the past two years demonstrates the power of strategic investment in our Main Streets," said Tom Putnam, Board Chairman of Fenimore Asset Management and Chair of SEEC. "These improvements don't just beautify our communities—they drive economic growth, attract customers, and strengthen the fabric of our local business districts."

Who Can Apply

The program is open to for-profit commercial and mixed-use property owners or commercial tenants within Schoharie County's six village commercial districts (Cobleskill, Esperance, Middleburgh, Richmondville, Schoharie, and Sharon Springs) and designated hamlet areas. Projects must range from $2,000 to $10,000 in total cost.

Eligible improvements include façade repairs, window replacement, signage, and other curb appeal enhancements that complement the character of the commercial district. All projects must be completed by December 31, 2026.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: March 2, 2026
• Informational Zoom Session: 
• Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM

The Zoom links is available on the SEEC website - www.seecny.org.

• Award Announcements: Early April 2026
• Project Completion: December 31, 2026

Educational Opportunities

In addition to the grant program, SEEC is offering a three-part "Main Street Matters" educational series focusing on historic preservation and design best practices:

• Session 1: February 26, 2026 at 7:00 PM – Historic Districts overview
• Session 2: May 2026 (date TBD) – Great design principles and case studies
• Session 3: September 2026 (date TBD) – Historic Tax Credit application process

"We're not just providing financial support—we're building capacity and knowledge within our business community," said Trish Bergan, SEEC Program Administrator. "Through design guidance and educational programming, we're ensuring these improvements reflect the best practices in placemaking and historic preservation."

Success Stories

Since its 2024 launch, the Curb Appeal Program has supported businesses ranging from restaurants and retail spaces across seven communities. Each project has contributed to creating pedestrian-friendly, high-quality Main Street corridors that attract residents, travelers, and new investment.

The program is made possible through generous support from the Marge and Randy Becker Foundation, Sterling Insurance Company Foundation, Fenimore Asset Management, and other private donors to the SEEC Prosperity Fund.

How to Apply

Complete applications, including the $30 application fee, design checklist, contractor estimates, and supporting materials, must be submitted by March 2, 2026. Applications and program details are available at www.seecny.org/curb-appeal-program.

To register for informational sessions or learn more, contact: Trish Bergan, Program Administrator

Email: admin@seecny.org

Phone: (518) 517-1700