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.

About the Window Repair Grants

Applications Closed Jan 31

About the Facade/Tenant Improvement Grants

Applications Closed Jan 31

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Key Program Features & 2022 Updates
Program Details

Date Posted: November 15th, 2022 @ 5:18 PM
Last Updated: February 1st, 2023 @ 11:07 AM

Applications are now closed for the Facade and Tenant Improvement Grant Program. We received over 600 applications, and staff are now processing, reviewing and scoring the applications.

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

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Key Program Features & 2022 Updates

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%. Grant funds are given out after work is completed and proof of payment submitted.
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