Rent Subsidy Program

General Information

What is the new Rent Subsidy Program?

The Community Foundation hears regularly about the need for quality office space for local non-profit organizations. And since moving to our new location at 246 Martin Street we’ve noticed the building has empty offices ready to rent.

We have partnered with an anonymous donor to provide rent subsidies to new tenants at 246 Martin Street. Our hope is that these rent subsidies will accomplish two important goals:

  1. Provide high quality office space
  2. Help turn 246 Martin into a vibrant non-profit hub

Eligibility

Applicants must be non-profits or charities working in the social services field.

Program Details

When new tenants sign a five year lease at 246 Martin Street they can apply for a grant to subsidize the first three years of rent. We have not set a specific limit for each rent subsidy but will have grant amounts available as follows for each year:

  • Year 1: $80,000
  • Year 2: $60,000
  • Year 3: $40,000

Tenants will receive a subsidy for each of the three years with the grant amount declining gradually each year.

Tenants may also apply for a leasehold improvement grant that can cover up to 50% of renovation costs. The total amount available each year for leasehold improvements is as follows:

  • Year 1: $60,000
  • Year 2: $30,000
  • Year 3: $20,000

Available Space

  • #112: 230 square feet (sf)
  • #201: 1250sf
  • #203: 642sf
  • #205: 1183sf (can be combined with 203)
  • #210: 1990sf
  • #301/303: 3269sf (can be divided up)
  • #335: 622sf

The pricing for each unit will vary, but applicants should assume roughly $12/sf rent and $13.10/sf in additional rent. (without the rent subsidy).

Process

  1. Submit a Letter of Intent using this link
  2. Invitation to attend a group walk-through of the available spaces
  3. Further discussion will lead to short-listing of potential grant recipients (through the Foundation) and tenants (through the property manager).

Timeline

This is a new program for the Foundation that involves multiple partners and providers. We are forecasting the following workflow but recognize that the timelines beyond October 10 closing date may need to be flexible.

  • October 10: LOI process closes
  • End of October: Short list candidates tour the facility
  • November – December: Lease and grant negotiations
  • January 2026: Move into your new space!