Department of Economic Development Announces White Box and Facade Improvement Grant Programs

Thursday, March 30, 2023

The City of Toledo announces that the White Box and Facade Improvement Grant Programs will be accepting applications from April 3, 2023, to May 3, 2023.

The White Box Grant program helps property owners bring vacant, commercial, first-floor spaces up to current codes to create a functional "white box" space ready for customization and occupancy by a business. The program provides a matching grant of up to $75,000 for first-floor, interior renovation expenses that address accessibility, building code, and fire code deficiencies.

The Facade Improvement Grant program is designed to help property owners transform the facade of commercial, industrial, and mixed-use buildings. The program provides a matching grant of up to $40,000 to reimburse eligible expenses associated with a comprehensive facade improvement.

The White Box and Facade Improvement Grants are part of the City’s Vibrancy Initiative, a comprehensive approach to revitalization that addresses building exteriors through the Façade Improvement Grant and vacant first floor commercial interiors through the White Box Grant. The Vibrancy Initiative is designed to enhance the city’s vitality by supporting revitalization efforts that create jobs, reduce blight, and preserve and improve buildings.

"We're excited to launch the White Box and Facade Improvement Grants as part of Toledo's Vibrancy Initiative. By investing in our buildings and infrastructure, we're investing in the future of Toledo. These grants will help attract new businesses, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life for our residents. We encourage property owners to take advantage of this opportunity and join us in revitalizing Toledo," Mayor Kapszukiewicz said.

Applications must be submitted online via the Zoom Grants platform. No paper or emailed applications will be accepted. Deadline to submit applications is May 3, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. Awarded projects must be completed by December 1, 2023. The complete Notice of Funding Availability provides additional information, including application guidelines and eligibility criteria.

The full notice of funding availability and online applications are available at toledo.oh.gov/business/vibrancy-initiative.



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