Examples of eligible improvements include:

• Exterior painting
• Storefront renovations
• Doors and windows
• Building-mounted signage
• Awnings and canopies
• Exterior lighting
• Exterior architectural features
• Historic façade restoration
• Exterior ADA accessibility improvements associated with the project
• Professional design and architectural services related to eligible improvements

Only improvements visible from the public right-of-way are eligible for funding.

Applicants must meet all program eligibility requirements, including:

• Operate a for-profit business
• Be located within an eligible Low- and Moderate-Income Area (LMA)
• Own or lease a commercial property with a street-facing façade
• Be current on City obligations
• Meet all applicable federal program requirements

Commercial property owners and business tenants are both eligible to apply. Tenants must obtain written authorization from the property owner.

Applicants are required to provide a minimum 25% private match toward total project costs.

Projects that demonstrate a higher private investment may receive additional points during the competitive scoring process.

Applications are reviewed through a competitive scoring process that considers factors such as:

• Benefit to the surrounding Low- and Moderate-Income Area
• Visibility of the proposed improvements
• Business and neighborhood impact
• Project readiness
• Private investment (match contribution)
• Multi-tenant commercial impact
• Exterior accessibility improvements

The City also gives consideration to projects that support neighborhood-serving businesses and maximize public benefit.

Applicants should begin gathering the following information:

• Business information
• Property owner authorization (if applicable)
• Project description
• Photographs of existing conditions
• Professional cost estimates
• Concept drawings or renderings (if available)
• Documentation supporting the required match contribution