Wilton Manors Business Grants for Property Upgrades

Wilton Manors launched its Business Enhancement Grant Program to help local businesses improve their commercial properties. The initiative provides financial incentives for exterior upgrades, aiming to enhance the city's commercial appearance, particularly along Wilton Drive. It also seeks to reduce code deficiencies and encourage private investment in local buildings.

Eligible commercial properties in Wilton Manors can receive up to $10,000 or 50% of improvement costs, whichever is less. The city provides funding on a reimbursement basis and awards grants first-come, first-served. Property owners or tenants may apply for improvements such as exterior lighting, signage, awnings, ADA accessibility upgrades, and landscaping. The city determines grant amounts based on the lowest of at least three qualified bids submitted with applications, with an exception for mural projects.

To qualify, properties must be in Wilton Manors and have no outstanding city fees, taxes, fines, or liens. Proposed improvements must comply with all federal, state, county, and city codes, including those from the Development Review Committee and the Historic Preservation Board for designated historic properties. New construction, properties built within the last 10 years, are ineligible.

An Assistant City Manager, Community Development Services Director, and Assistant to the City Manager review applications. If selected, the committee recommends approval to the City Manager, who can sign Grant Agreements. Grantees must secure all necessary permits within 90 days and complete improvements within six months of the agreement's start date. The city may seek partial or full repayment if improvements are not maintained for at least three years.