Knoxville’s Self Supporting Municipal Improvement District program offers business property owners assistance for facade improvements in the SSMID district. Chamber Director Larissa Van Donselaar tells KNIA KRLS News that there are several categories that qualify. She says those include critical needs, replacement of signs or awnings; facade improvements, which includes paint or brick work; and restoration, or bringing the storefront back to its original look. Decorations, benches or other features that add to the character of downtown are all items that qualify for SSMID funding. Contact the Chamber if you are a SSMID member interested in applying.