Facade and Tenant Improvement Program

Small business owners and property owners can apply for up to $75,000 through the City of Oakland’s expanded and updated Facade and Tenant Improvement Program to improve the exterior and interior of their commercial properties.

Apply for Window Repair
Applications Open Dec 1
Apply for Facade/Tenant Improvements
Applications Open Dec 1-Jan 31
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Date Posted: November 15th, 2022 @ 5:18 PM
Last Updated: November 28th, 2022 @ 4:36 PM

Do not submit an application if you have already begun construction.

Applicants must sign a grant agreement with the City BEFORE starting construction, in order for those project expenses to be considered eligible for reimbursement.

Key Program Features & 2022 Updates

Sweetfingers Restaurant at 5859 Foothill Blvd (Before and After)
Sweetfingers Restaurant at 5859 Foothill Blvd (Before and After)
  • Grants now available city-wide​
  • Projects up to $25,000 are fully reimbursable; additional costs reimbursed at 50%
  • Reimbursement can be provided in stages throughout project
  • Emergency Window Repair Grants of $2,500 due to vandalism​ (first-come, first-served basis)
  • Open to both property owners and their business tenants.
  • ​Tenant applicants must be an independently owned, for-profit business​. Churches, nonprofit organizations, chains, and franchises are not eligible.
  • Applications will be prioritized based on the Equity Scoring Criteria and the fulfillment of the following goals: a) Support the City's broader economic development goals; b) Improve the retail climate of the surrounding commercial district; c) Enhance the appearance of the property and preserve/restore valuable historical features.


Program Details

Maximum Grant Awards

  • Façade Improvement Program (FIP): $30,000. See Details HERE
  • Tenant Improvement Program (TIP): $45,000
  • Combined Façade Improvement + Tenant Improvement: $75,000​
  • Emergency Window Repair: $2,500

Note: Awarded grant money is taxable income​

Example Eligible Projects

Façade (Exterior) Improvements​ Tenant (Interior) Improvements​
  • Signage​
  • Landscaping​
  • Exterior lighting​
  • Security systems​
  • Awnings/canopies​
  • Windows, doors, and safety grilles​
  • Restoration of historical façade​
  • Physical upgrades associated with outdoor dining (e.g., parklets)​
  • Compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)​
  • Permit fees​
  • Design work​
  • Interior design, paint, and décor​
  • Demolition and shell reconstruction​
  • Restoration of interior historical features​
  • Mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC​
  • Hazardous materials abatement (e.g. asbestos removal)​
  • Compliance with the Americans with Disability Act (ADA)​
  • Permit fees​
  • Design work​

Help publicize the program using graphics and suggested blurbs in our asset library

FTIP Asset Library

Please review Program Guidelines before you apply

Program Guidelines

Contact us:

Phone number: (510) 238-3853

Email address: ftip@oaklandca.gov