Façade Improvement Grant

Grant Overview

Donor: City of San Bernardino in partnership with SBDC California

About: The Façade Improvement Grant Program supports small businesses in San Bernardino by funding property enhancement projects. It aims to improve the aesthetics of businesses in commercial corridors, promote economic revitalization, and encourage investment. The grant helps businesses create visually appealing, pedestrian-friendly environments to attract customers and increase activity in the area. Eligible improvements include visible exterior upgrades such as signs, lighting, landscaping, and architectural restorations.

Focus:
-Facilitating commercial revitalization
-Stimulating private investment and customer traffic
-Enhancing visual aesthetics for a pedestrian-friendly environment

Region: San Bernardino, California

Eligibility:
-Small businesses located in qualified census tracts along designated commercial corridors
-Businesses open before March 13, 2020, and still operational
-Businesses open between March 14, 2020–May 11, 2023, and operational for at least 6 months before applying
-Businesses with a valid business license in San Bernardino

Terms:
-All improvements must be visible from the public right-of-way
-Contractors must meet city requirements, including valid California contractor licenses, San Bernardino business licenses, and insurance
-Payments are made directly to the contractor completing the approved project
-Businesses must follow program guidelines and complete the Façade Improvement Grant application process