The Gloucester Main Street Preservation Trust has launched an interior grant program for businesses in its target area of Gloucester Court House. Grant applications are due by Aug. 30.

Executive director Jenny Crittenden said $25,000 will be available for the matching grants this year. The program requires a 50 percent match from the business, and the award will be made after the project is completed.

Grant winners will be announced by Sept. 27, Crittenden said, and those businesses selected are to begin the improvements to their interiors within 90 days. The work is expected be completed by the end of 2013 if possible, she said.

This grant program offers two categories:

Merchandise Assistance: up to $2,500 can be applied to assist with interior design, décor, improving displays for in-store and windows, and interior signage.

Tenant Improvement: up to $10,000 can be applied to assist with improvements in plumbing, electrical, flooring, windows, doors, lighting and ot...