NEED A LIFT? The North Barstow BID Beautification Grant, offered through DECI, is accepting new applications through Jan. 16. The new galactic mural adorning Steve's Hemp, pictured, is a recent project which was awarded the grant.

Want a new look in the new year? If you’re a business owner in the North Barstow Business Improvement District (BID), here’s your chance: The North Barstow BID Beautification Grant is now accepting applications.

Open to those located in downtown Eau Claire’s North Barstow district, the Beautification Grant encourages the creation of visible, public-facing enhancements to create a more welcoming and vibrant environment.

Grants of up to $10,000 could be awarded to projects small or large, the online application reads, and is intended to help fund projects which fall outside the applicant’s own budget. If awarded, projects must be completed in 2026.

Examples of  eligible* projects include (but are not limited to):

• Murals and creative exterior installations

• Public art or artist-designed features

• Landscaping, planters, or streetscape greenery

• Public space improvements or placemaking elements

• Addition of public amenities such as seating, lighting, or wayfinding

*Facade or site maintenance and repairs, like paint or general upkeep, will be considered but not prioritized, the grant application states.

Grant applications are reviewed on a first-come-first-served basis, and must be completed and submitted no later than Friday, Jan. 16. (Technically, the Beautification Grant accepts applications on a rolling basis to be reviewed quarterly; Downtown Eau Claire, Inc. (DECI) recently put out a social media call for new applications.)

Applications must include a financial plan or itemized budget and visuals of proposed improvements, as well as additional items depending on the project.

Learn more about the North Barstow BID Beautification Grant and shoot your shot online.