Wilton Manors Grant for Business Property Improvements

The City of Wilton Manors has introduced a Business Enhancement Grant Program to help property owners and tenants improve the appearance of existing commercial buildings. The program offers financial incentives for exterior upgrades to businesses along the city's commercial corridors, including The Drive and Oakland Park Boulevard.

The initiative aims to enhance the visual appeal of commercial properties, address code deficiencies, promote the reuse of underutilized spaces, and reduce storefront vacancies. Eligible commercial properties can receive funding on a reimbursement basis, covering up to $10,000 or 50% of the improvement cost, whichever is less. The final grant amount will be determined by the lowest of at least three qualified bids, except for mural projects.

Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of one grant per property owner or tenant per fiscal year. Properties may be eligible for additional grant funding up to the $10,000 maximum over a five-year period. Costs for improvements begun before City Commission approval and the grant agreement's effective date are not reimbursable. Funded improvements must be maintained for at least three years following completion.

To qualify, properties must be located within Wilton Manors and have no outstanding city fees, taxes, fines, or liens. Proposed improvements must meet the requirements of the Development Review Committee and the Historic Preservation Board, if applicable, and conform to all relevant codes. New construction, defined as built within the last 10 years, is ineligible.

Eligible improvements include exterior lighting, signage, canopies, awnings, green building components, ADA improvements, hurricane impact doors and windows, exterior repairs, stucco, painting, brickwork, murals, landscaping, and visible hardscape improvements. Ineligible improvements include HVAC and roof repairs, interior work, permitting fees, professional service fees, and labor by unlicensed contractors.

Applications are reviewed based on their submittal date. A grant review committee, comprised of the Assistant City Manager, the Community Development Services Director, and the Assistant to the City Manager, will evaluate submissions. The committee recommends approval to the City Manager. Grantees must secure necessary permits within 90 days and complete improvements within six months of the agreement's effective date, with extensions possible for just cause.