Business Facade Grants
FRNNG administers the City of Minneapolis Facade Improvement Program for our neighborhoods to help businesses, non-profits and property owners at eligible commercial nodes improve their exteriors by providing matching grants. Learn more about the program and apply for a matching grant for one-third of the total project cost up to a maximum grant of $5,000. So for a $15,000 project, the applicant would pay $10,000 and the grant would be $5,000.
To qualify for matching funds, applicants must follow program guidelines, apply, and receive approval before beginning any work.
Eligibility
Building owners and commercial tenants (with property owner’s approval) can apply for a Facade Grant if:
The property is located within an eligible business district (click here for a map of eligible areas) AND
The facade improvements are for a commercial business or building or a non-profit organization.
Before Applying
Confirm that your business, building or non-profit is located in an eligible commercial node.
Read through the City’s Facade Grant pages and grant requirements.
Email frnng@frnng.org to check in virtually or set up a meeting with FRNNG’s Community Coordinator, Lauren.
How to Apply
Download the City Facade Grant Application & Participation Agreement here.
Decide on your project, get approval from the property owner if needed and get the necessary number of bids/estimates.
Complete your application and submit to facadegrants@frnng.org with all required documentation before work begins.
Wait for written approval from FRNNG that you are approved for a grant before starting your project.
Requirements to Receive Funds
After approval, you must complete your project within 9 months. Please take before and after photos.
Submit a final invoice to FRNNG, proof of payment for the work completed, proof of City inspection, before and after photos and wait for reimbursement. Once submitted, payment will be issued within 30 days.
Grant FAQs
What kinds of improvements can the facade improvement matching grant cover?
Awning and business signage installation or repair, exterior painting including murals, siding and finish restoration, masonry repairs, window and door updates, exterior lighting.
Do I get funds before or after work is completed?
The Facade Grant program is a reimbursement program so you’ll receive funds after applying, receiving grant approval, completing work and submitting required documentation.
What funds are available and what is the match required?
The eligible commercial nodes in Field, Regina and Northrop require a 1:2 match with a max grant award of $5,000 per storefront. So for a $15,000 project, the business or property owner will pay $10,000 and the grant will provide $5,000.
Need design ideas? Check out the Facade Grant Design Guide.
Questions
Please contact our Community Coordinator, Lauren, at frnng@frnng.org or 612-208-6004.