About The Grant

The Western Avenue Storefront Improvement Grant Program aims to support small businesses in California by providing funding for storefront enhancements. This initiative is designed to help local entrepreneurs improve their visibility and attractiveness, fostering economic growth within the community. The grants empower businesses to make necessary upgrades or repairs, which can significantly improve foot traffic and customer engagement.

Eligible businesses may receive funding to cover various improvements, including facade repairs, signage, and other aesthetic enhancements. This program represents an excellent opportunity for small business owners looking to revitalize their storefronts and attract more customers to their locations, thus contributing to the overall economic development of their neighborhoods.

Important Details

• 1. Application Deadline: Applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until funding is exhausted.
• 2. Link to Application: For more information, visit this link.
• 3. Donor Name: City of Rancho Palos Verdes City Council.
• 4. State(s): California.
• 5. Grant Duration: Not explicitly mentioned.
• 6. Grant Amount: Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000.
• 7. Qualification Criteria: Small businesses located within specific areas of the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, demonstrating a need for storefront improvements and eligibility to match grant funding.
  • Applicants of the Program must be commercial businesses located within the Program Area. Franchises and chain retailers are eligible under the Program. Improvements assisted by the Program should enhance or restore the physical condition or appearance of the building. Proposed improvements must be visible from the street. Types of improvements include but are not limited to:
    • Exterior paint
    • Removal of old signs, awnings, and other exterior clutter
    • Repair or replacement of exterior siding, stucco, or other exterior finishes
    • Installation of new entry doors that meet ADA accessibility requirements
    • Repair and replacement of windows
    • Installation of awnings
    • Installation of signs
    • Installation of exterior lighting
    • Installation of permanent landscaping
    • Entire storefront re-facing
    • Remediation of city and state code violations
    • Construction of outdoor dining and gathering spaces
    • Improvements not listed above but that contribute to the overall upgrade to a storefront may be considered for grant funding on a case-by-case basis.

More About the Grants

The Program provides matching grants to eligible applicants located within the Program Area. The Program match requirement is set at a maximum of 50% of eligible costs. However, the City reserves the right to flex the match requirement on a case-by-case basis. Three tiers of grant funding are available to applicants:

Tier 1: To be used for non-architectural elements such as paint, signage, and awnings. The Program reimburses 50% of the Program Grantee’s cost up to a maximum grant amount of $5,000.

Tier 2: May be used for all Tier 1 type improvements as well as additional significant storefront improvements including, but not limited to, structural upgrades, storefront tile or stone accents, complete window replacement, or upgrading entryways for ADA compliance. See Section II.C for a complete list of eligible improvements. The Program reimburses 50% of the Program Grantee’s costs up to a maximum grant amount of $10,000.

Tier 3: Multiple tenant commercial buildings, consisting of three or more tenants, are eligible for the Program under Tier 3. Grant funds may be used for Tier 1 or Tier 2 type improvements. The Program reimburses 50% of the Program Grantee’s costs up to a maximum grant amount of $20,000.

Taking Action

It is vital for you to take action and seize this opportunity for your business. Applying for grants like the Western Avenue Storefront Improvement Grant can make a real difference in your enterprise’s success. Share this information with your network of Latino businesses to empower others to partake in this valuable initiative and strengthen our community.