South End Loan & Incentive Fund

Mayor Craig Greenberg and the Louisville Economic Development Alliance announced the launch of the South End Loan and Incentive Fund — a $2 million investment to support local business development, commercial property improvements, and the attraction of new restaurants along the Dixie Highway corridor. The new fund, developed in partnership with and administered by the Louisville Economic Development Alliance (LEDA) through its METCO loan program, is designed to reduce commercial vacancy, increase foot traffic, and stimulate long-term economic activity in one of Louisville’s most important commercial corridors. Learn more about the two programs and their eligibility requirements below.

In addition to the Dixie Highway Restaurant Attraction Incentive and South End Legacy Business grants below, additional funding opportunities exist through the METCO Revolving Loan Program.

Dixie Highway Restaurant Attraction Incentive

This program introduces a $1 million Incentive Fund to attract quality restaurants to the Dixie Highway corridor. The program provides up to $30 per square foot for fast-casual restaurants leasing or buying 2,000–5,000 sq. ft., and table service restaurants leasing or buying >5,000 sq. ft. with an aim to revitalize vacant sites, increase visitors, and drive economic growth in the South End. The incentive can be combined with other tax-based incentives and is awarded after construction and occupancy milestones are met. Awards will be available on a first come, first served basis.

Goals & Objectives

• Attract restaurants, including established national restaurant chains and local businesses, to the Dixie Highway corridor

• Activate vacant or underutilized commercial spaces along Dixie Highway

• Generate sustained job creation and increased tax revenue

• Offer new, high-quality dining and entertainment options for the community

• Support corridor-wide revitalization aligned with Metro Council priorities

Eligibility Requirements

• Fast Casual Restaurant Grants

  • Eligible restaurant types: casual dining, fast casual, fine dining, café/bistro, diner, family-style, or pizzeria

  • Space required: 2,000–5,000 sq ft (leased or owned)

  • In business for at least 5 years; three-year average revenue of $800,000+

• Table Service Restaurant Grants

  • Must offer dine-in service with table servers

  • Space required: 5,000+ sq ft (leased or owned)

  • In business for at least 5 years; three-year average revenue of $3,000,000+

• Location: Dixie Highway corridor, South Louisville (Broadway to county line)

• Projected gross annual revenue during lease: $1–3 million

• Good standing with Louisville Metro Revenue Commission

• Ready for construction or occupancy within 6 months