The Program’s Initial Phase Will Prioritize Businesses Owned by Women, Minorities, and LGBTQ+ Individuals Within the Pico Business Improvement District
Small businesses along Pico Boulevard will soon have access to funding for storefront improvements under a new matching grant initiative announced by the city of Santa Monica.
The program, officially called the Commercial Façade Improvement Matching Grant Program, offers businesses a dollar-for-dollar match of up to $10,000. Eligible uses include replacing or repairing exterior elements such as signs, awnings, and siding, as well as upgrading landscaping, installing ADA-compliant entryways, and enhancing security features based on assessments by the Santa Monica Police Department.
Funding for the initiative comes from federal Community Development Block Grants, allocated to support economic vitality in areas serving low- to moderate-income households. Earlier this year, the Santa Monica City Council designated a portion of these funds to support small businesses, particularly those facing systemic barriers to accessing capital.
The program’s initial phase will prioritize businesses owned by women, minorities, and LGBTQ+ individuals within the Pico Business Improvement District. The city also encourages the use of local vendors for materials and labor to further support Santa Monica’s economy.
“This program is part of our ongoing effort to bolster economic development while addressing inequities faced by small business owners,” said a city spokesperson in a post. “We’re starting with Pico Boulevard, but we hope to expand to other areas in the future.”
An informational meeting to launch the program is scheduled for Jan. 15, 2025, at 4 p.m. at the Annex of the Pico Branch Library, located at 2201 Pico Blvd.
Businesses interested in applying are encouraged to schedule security audits with the Police Department and begin planning their projects. Applications and additional details are available on the city’s website at santamonica.gov. For inquiries, contact the Economic Development Division at (310) 458-8906 or via email at econdev@santamonica.gov.
