The City of Norfolk, Virginia has partnered with the local business community to launch the Norfolk Facade Improvement Grant, a new initiative designed to revitalize urban commercial corridors and enhance the community. This grant provides financial support for eligible commercial building owners and small businesses to undertake exterior and interior renovations, aligning them with the unique character of Norfolk’s commercial areas. The grant, which is open to Norfolk-based business owners and commercial property owners, offers up to $50,000 for property owners and up to $25,000 for tenants/businesses, with a 10% match required. The 2023 Facade Improvement Grant applications open on August 1st and close on September 8th.
Introduction
By Tim Ryan
The City of Norfolk, Virginia, in collaboration with the local business community, has launched the Façade Improvement Grant. This new initiative aims to rejuvenate urban commercial corridors and elevate the neighborhoods they serve, making Norfolk an even more vibrant and diverse community.
Grant Details
The Façade Improvement Grant offers financial support to eligible commercial building owners and small businesses, providing the means to undertake both exterior and interior renovations. From a fresh coat of paint and improved lighting to new signage and aesthetic enhancements, the grant will help align renovations with the unique character of Norfolk’s commercial areas.
Eligibility and Requirements
This initiative speaks volumes of Norfolk’s commitment to fostering economic growth, sustainable development, and improving community aesthetics. It sets the stage for a journey of transformation, paving the way for a more prosperous future for all who live, work, and do business in Norfolk.
Eligibility for the grant extends to Norfolk-based business owners and commercial property owners who are looking to improve their properties or expand their existing businesses. The grant is also open to home-based businesses planning to transition into bricks-and-mortar premises. However, franchises, non-profit organizations, and religious institutions are not eligible for the grant.
Application Process
Applicants must adhere to specific requirements including conceptual drawings/renderings before application submission, up-to-date tax, permit, and fee payments, and mandatory attendance at a Commercial Corridor Façade Grant Workshop. Ineligible entities for the grant include not-for-profit, faith-based organizations, political organizations, and certain types of businesses.
Grant Details and Timeline
The grant provides up to $50,000 for property owners and up to $25,000 for tenants/businesses, both requiring a 10% match. All projects funded must be completed within one year from the execution of the grant agreement. Allowable purchases include, but are not limited to, renovations like exterior building enhancements, interior upgrades, and architectural/design services. The grant does not cover costs like purchasing real estate, inventory, and operating licenses.
The 2023 Facade Improvement Grant Applications are set to open on Tuesday, August 1st at 9:00 am and close on Friday, September 8th at 11:59 pm. Applicants must attend a mandatory workshop prior to applying and check the Required Documents Checklist to ensure a successful application.
Conclusion
The Façade Improvement Grant is a testament to Norfolk’s dedication to growth, development, and community. It will bring new life to our commercial corridors, strengthening the bond between businesses and the neighborhoods they serve. Please visit the Commercial Corridor Program page for more information about the grant and application process or download a brochure here.
Question & Answer
1. Who is eligible to apply for the Norfolk Facade Improvement Grant?
Eligibility for the grant extends to Norfolk-based business owners, commercial property owners, and home-based businesses planning to transition into physical premises.
2. What is the maximum amount of funding available through the grant?
The grant provides up to $50,000 for property owners and up to $25,000 for tenants/businesses, both requiring a 10% match.
3. What are some of the allowable purchases covered by the grant?
Allowable purchases include exterior building enhancements, interior upgrades, and architectural/design services, among others.
