Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. Launches New Grant Program to Boost Downtown Business Collaboration and Local Economy

Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. Launches New Grant Program to Boost Downtown 
Business Collaboration and Local Economy

Culpeper, VA –

Culpeper Renaissance, Inc. (CRI) is proud to announce the launch of its Downtown 
Business Collaboration Grant Program, a new initiative designed to support local 
businesses in the downtown district. This program aims to foster collaboration among 
businesses by providing financial assistance for promotional activities that create events, 
ultimately increasing foot traffic and enhancing community engagement.

The Downtown Business Collaboration Grant Program is open to three or more business
owners located within the CRI downtown district footprint. Eligible businesses can receive 
grants of up to $1,500 per event or activity to cover costs associated with promotional 
advertising.

Jennifer Hoehna, CRI Board President, expressed her enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, 
“This grant program represents our commitment to strengthening the downtown business 
community. By encouraging collaboration, we can create engaging events that attract 
families and visitors, ultimately bolstering our local economy.”

The program not only aims to increase foot traffic but also to enhance community 
awareness of the diverse offerings available in the downtown area. Glen Hoffherr, Chair of 
the CRI Economic Vitality Committee, emphasized the program's importance: “The 
Downtown Business Collaboration Grant Program is an essential step toward revitalizing 
our downtown. It not only supports individual businesses but also fosters a sense of 
community that benefits everyone.”

Applications for the grant will be accepted from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026. 
Businesses interested in applying must submit a detailed plan outlining their proposed 
event or activity, including a strategic promotion plan. Applications are due on the first 
Thursday of each month for committee review.

CRI Executive Director, Jessica Jenkins added, “We believe that when businesses work 
together, they can create unforgettable experiences for our community. This grant program 
is designed to empower local businesses to collaborate and promote our downtown as a 
destination.”

The introduction of this grant program is part of CRI's broader mission to strengthen the 
economic vitality of downtown Culpeper. By creating a vibrant atmosphere through 
collaborative events, CRI hopes to drive sales and foster a sense of community pride 
among residents and visitors alike.

For more information about the Downtown Business Collaboration Grant Program and to 
apply, visit the CRI Grant Application Portal at www.culpeperdowntown.com