Facade Improvement Grant

Up to $20K available! 

Overview:

The Kent Downtown Partnership (KDP) is offering grants to assist business and property owners improve their building façades within the Historic Downtown Kent District bounded by Smith Street to the north, Titus Street to the south, 4th Avenue to the West and Central Avenue to the East (collectively, the “District”).

The KDP thanks WAFd Bank for its generous contribution to the program.

The total budget for this program in 2026 is $20,000.     

Find details and how to apply HERE

ILLUMINATE DOWNTOWN

A Bright Future Awaits

Welcome to our fundraising campaign!

Join us in preserving and celebrating our vibrant downtown by installing artistic, energy-efficient lighting that will enhance its beauty and safety.

Learn more about the project and how to contribute HERE

Placemaking Micro-Grant

Reimagine. Rejuvenate. Revitalize

This program provides businesses ways to activate spaces with positive impacts in the community. Micro-grants for qualifying downtown businesses and property owners are available in two categories:

• Physical space improvement

• Event space activation

Learn more about the program and how to apply HERE

State B&O Tax Credit Program – 75% tax credit

KEEP TAX DOLLARS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

The Main Street Tax Credit Incentive Program offers a 75% for State B&O or Public Utility tax credit for contributions to the Kent Downtown Partnership.  Register with the Department of Revenue (DOR) to qualify.  KDP, a designated Washington Main Street Community and a 501(c)(3) non-profit, may also enable a federal income tax deduction (check with your CPA).

Participating is easy!

  1. Register: Sign in to your DOR account to register a contribution; we can provide you step-by-step instructions or register for you!
  2. Donate: Make your contribution directly to KDP between January and November 1.   Various payment options are available.
  3. Credit:  Once payment is made, we report to the Dept of Revenue, and YOU get a 75% credit on your B&O tax liability the following January.

Note: the credit must be used within that year, as it cannot be carried forward.   More info from the State HERE, or contact the KDP at 253-813-6976.

DOING BUSINESS IN KENT

New business resources, retail/commercial space lease

Merrill Building Circa 1905. 1st Ave S & Gowe Street

Startup looking for a unique niche? Established business seeking a fresh, authentic market?

Historic Kent is a compelling destination for your entrepreneurial dreams!   The unique ambiance and the support from the local community and government make opening a business here a decision that can yield long-term benefits and make a positive impact.

Learn more about downtown HERE

Adopt-A-Street

KEEP MEEKER ST. CLEAN!

The KDP has adopted Meeker Street and is committed to keeping it litter-free. Four times a year on a Saturday morning, many volunteers clean up Meeker and other streets downtown. Join us — you can receive notices of these and other KDP events HERE.

Adopt-a-Street’s mission is to promote civic responsibility and community pride as well as to enhance Kent’s quality of life through clean streets and beautiful neighborhoods.