Des Moines, IA (Downtown Core)New
Restore the Core DSM
From City of Des Moines
Verified on the funder's official page
- Amount
- Up to $200,000Up to $200,000 (properties without an active development agreement) or up to $100,000 (with one). Minimum $50,000 project
- Deadline
- RollingNo closing date
- Matching funds
- You pay 50%
- Payment
- Paid after you spend
- Effort
- Big job A full proposal and several steps.
- Who
- Any owner
The link goes to dsm.city.
Who can apply
- New commercial tenants with an executed lease of 5+ years, or prospective tenants with a signed LOI/contingent lease of 5+ years (owner authorization required), for street-level commercial spaces in the Downtown Core boundary vacant at least 24 consecutive months (unless otherwise recommended); owners/purchasers case by case
Retail and restaurant, or any industry
Can you apply?
A quick check. It does not block the apply link.
Before you apply
Get a signed letter of intent with the landlord first; professional fees before approval can count toward your match.
Heads up
Big matching grants for new tenants filling long-vacant downtown Des Moines storefronts.
Checked on City of Des Moines, Oct 26 (opens in a new tab)
This is a summary. The official page has the final word.
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Questions about Restore the Core DSM
How much is Restore the Core DSM?
Up to $200,000 (properties without an active development agreement) or up to $100,000 (with one), paid after you spend. Minimum $50,000 project.
When can I apply for Restore the Core DSM?
Any time. Applications are rolling, with no single closing date.
Who can apply for Restore the Core DSM?
New commercial tenants with an executed lease of 5+ years, or prospective tenants with a signed LOI/contingent lease of 5+ years (owner authorization required), for street-level commercial spaces in the Downtown Core boundary vacant at least 24 consecutive months (unless otherwise recommended); owners/purchasers case by case.
Does Restore the Core DSM require matching funds?
Yes. You need to put in some of your own money or another match. You pay 50%. The money is paid after you spend.
Where was Restore the Core DSM checked?
Checked on the official site on Oct 26, 2026. If anything here differs, the official page is right.