Columbus has approved a $1 million grant to support the renovation of a new downtown headquarters for the local fashion sector. The funding was unanimously approved by City Council, signaling strong political support for the city’s creative economy.
A Historic Building, Reimagined
The organization behind the project is transforming a former Columbus College of Art & Design building at 161 N. Grant Ave. into a modern headquarters known as The Loom. The site is being redesigned as a multi-purpose space tailored to designers, founders, and fashion-focused businesses.
A Hub for Innovation and Retail
The Loom is set to include an innovation lab, retail area, meeting rooms, and dedicated tenant space for fashion entrepreneurs. The goal is to create a hands-on environment where ideas, commerce, and collaboration intersect under one roof.
Public Funding and Broader Support
In addition to the city’s grant, the project has already secured $1 million in federal recovery funding through Franklin County and another $660,000 from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Together, these investments make The Loom one of the city’s largest recent commitments to the fashion industry.
Budget Context and Public Debate
The funding arrives at a time of tighter budgets across local government, with Franklin County planning financial cuts for 2026 and the city signaling caution in general spending. Officials clarified that this investment comes from the city’s capital improvement budget, not from everyday operating funds.
A Vote That Split the Room
At the same council meeting, a separate proposal to grant $500,000 to a professional volleyball team passed by a narrow margin. Some council members opposed that measure, citing concerns about social services funding. The fashion project, by contrast, received unanimous approval.
Fashion as Economic Strategy
City leaders emphasized that this investment treats fashion as a serious economic driver. By positioning The Loom as a downtown anchor, Columbus aims to strengthen its reputation as a growing center for design, entrepreneurship, and creative business.
