Economic Development


The economic well-being of the central business district of Downtown Appleton is one of the most important charges of Appleton Downtown Inc. ADI works with the City of Appleton's Community Development Department to recruit new business and promote the retention of existing businesses in the downtown area.

ADI has many development tools at its disposal to help with this charge, including:

  • BUSINESS RECRUITMENT PACKET – including a full-color brochure, space availability listing and downtown asset highlights. Packets are available by calling the ADI office at 920-954-9112. 
  • ECONOMIC DATA – Both ADI and the City of Appleton have put together a list of relative socio-economic data that encourage businesses to locate in downtown Appleton.
  • ONE-ON-ONE CONSULTATION – ADI offers consultation based on downtown-specific studies that indicate market needs and identify best fit locations. We can also assist with the business plan writing process.
  • SPACE AVAILABLE LISTS – ADI, in conjunction with the City of Appleton's Community Development Department, maintains a list of all available properties in the downtown.
  • FAÇADE GRANT – ADI provides a range of grants up to $5000 available to properties within the business improvement district boundaries. Applications are available online or by calling the ADI office.
  • DESIGN GUIDEBOOK – Developed with assistance by the Hoffman Corporation to give guidance and direction to the revitalization process. It includes rehabilitation standards, a look at building materials and components, as well as recommended building façade design guidelines. A copy of the Appleton Downtown Design Guidelines is available in the ADI office.
  • ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE – This committee works with the city in designing comprehensive plans to help the economic well-being of the central city. They are responsible for administering the façade grant program, recruitment of new business, retention efforts and addressing issues effecting the economic growth and stability of downtown.

For more information:
Why Downtown?
Downtown Demographics
Business Opportunities
Facade Grant Program
Fox Cities Demographics



116 N. Appleton Street | PO Box 2272
Appleton, WI 54912-2272
920-954-9112
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