2026 Downtown West Orange Alliance Budget Narrative.pdf

5 Grants & Strategic Initiatives Transformation Strategy Grant – $72,189 The Alliance secured a $72,189 Transformation Strategy grant to implement initiatives aligned with the district’s adopted Transformation Strategy, Thrive Local West Orange. This funding supports targeted business recruitment, entrepreneurial development, storefront activation, placemaking enhancements, and marketing initiatives designed to strengthen the district as an incubator for small and emerging businesses. State Tourism Grant Initiative – $18,000 In partnership with the Township, the Alliance successfully secured an $18,000 State of New Jersey Tourism Grant to support destination marketing initiatives. The Downtown West Orange Alliance prepared and submitted the grant application and will provide the required 25% matching funds in the amount of $4,500. The Downtown Alliance is working with two professional vendors and the Promotions Committee to develop and implement this campaign. The grant will fund a targeted digital marketing initiative promoting key West Orange tourism assets, including the Thomas Edison Museum, local open space and golf facilities, and wedding and lodging venues. This campaign is designed to increase visitation, elevate West Orange as a regional destination, and generate measurable economic impact for the broader community, including increased visitation for downtown restaurants, retail establishments, and service businesses. Organization $6,600.00 The Organization category supports the structural foundation and governance of the Downtown West Orange Alliance, ensuring effective coordination among board members, committees, volunteers, and community stakeholders. This line item provides for organizational development, sponsorship cultivation, partnership coordination, and the administrative support necessary to implement programs efficiently and collaboratively. Maintaining strong working relationships with local organizations remains a priority. The Alliance continues to collaborate with partners such as the West Orange Chamber of Commerce, Friends of Edison, Friends of the West Orange Public Library, the Public Relations Commission, the West Orange Hispanic Foundation, The African Heritage Association, the Rotary Club of West Orange, and other community groups. Active participation in meetings and joint initiatives strengthens alignment and maximizes

nic Foundation, The African Heritage Association, the Rotary Club of West Orange, and other community groups. Active participation in meetings and joint initiatives strengthens alignment and maximizes community impact. In addition, the Alliance participates in ongoing professional development, training, and technical assistance opportunities offered through the National Main Street Center and Downtown New Jersey to ensure adherence to best practices in downtown management and economic development. Community Events $ 100.00 Dues & Subscriptions $ 1,000.00 Main St. NJ -National Conference $ 5,000.00 Trade Shows/Seminars $ 500.00