Erie County has announced that small business owners can learn more about a significant Storefront Revitalization Program that is being made available. Anyone interested in accessing the grants, to beautify and upgrade their buildings, can apply. Hopefully business owners will take full advantage of this program, as there are plenty of businesses (and buildings) that could benefit from this. From Elmwood to Grant Street (lead image) to Riverside, there are lots of examples of shoddy, downtrodden facades, with signage that looks to be temporary. How businesses can hang banners as signs is beyond me, especially when there are grant programs available.
“As we continue to build back better from the COVID pandemic, this year we are assisting eligible small business owners in improving the physical appearance of their business in order to attract customers, enhance curb appeal and beautify the neighborhood, and most importantly drive business,” said Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz. “During the pandemic, we helped local small businesses attract customers and generate millions of dollars in sales with the successful Shop 716 campaign, and today I want to let small business owners know that Erie County still has your back. Our goal is to improve and enhance hundreds of storefronts countywide this year, bringing business and building stronger communities.”
“All businesses physically located in Erie County that meet the criteria are eligible to apply, so I encourage business owners to find out more by visiting our website and get involved as soon as possible,” said Commissioner of the Department of Environment and Planning Dan Castle. “Among other eligibility requirements businesses must be current with federal, state, and local taxes, including property taxes, for the building they wish to improve through the program. Also, eligible applicants can have no pending petition for bankruptcy protection, and no pending liability claims. We anticipate wide interest in this program so businesses should get more information right away.”
County Storefront Program
Erie County has set aside $10 million to assist small business owners with their Storefront Revitalization Program. Countywide grants up to $40,000 are available for exterior building renovations to their properties. On Monday, May 9th at 6pm there will be a web presentation to discuss the application process and answer questions. Eligible expenses include exterior building façade improvements, permanent outdoor fixtures, and ADA/building code compliance activities. Pre-registration is required. For complete details, click here.