Small Project Grant Program

The Small Project Grant Program, established by the Dallas Urban Renewal Agency, supports the implementation of the Dallas Downtown Urban Renewal Plan through strategic financial investments in small-scale improvements within the designated Urban Renewal District. This district is part of a broader vision to revitalize downtown Dallas by encouraging high-quality development that aligns with the area’s historic character and economic objectives. Specifically, the program aims to foster a unified downtown, support mixed-use development that prioritizes pedestrian accessibility, enhance architectural consistency, and boost local employment and commercial activity. Grants are available to both property owners and tenants, provided tenants have written permission from the property owner. The Grant Administrator—typically the City Manager or their designee—is the main point of contact for the program and oversees the compliance review process. The review ensures that all grant-supported projects adhere to relevant city and state regulations. Applications are considered on a rolling basis while funds remain available, and applicants must meet a series of eligibility criteria before being approved for funding. The program supports two categories of eligible expenses: construction and professional services. Construction projects that may be funded include door and window replacements, installation of permanent commercial signage, HVAC or plumbing upgrades, weatherproofing measures such as insulation or gutter work, and new siding or awnings. The grant can also fund the purchase of materials for these types of construction. On the professional services side, the grant supports architecture, engineering, and site planning services related to the development or renovation of commercial properties in the Urban Renewal District. However, several activities are specifically excluded, such as painting (unless part of an eligible construction project), cleaning, mural or public art work, parking and landscaping improvements, utility bills, real estate purchases, and personal labor costs, including work performed by the applicant or their family members. All applicants must provide a 25% match of the total project cost. Grants are capped based on the nature of the project: construction-related proposals are eligible for up to $1,000, while professional services proposals may receive up to $3,000. Applicants cannot have outstanding payments due to the City of Dallas or any related entity. Only one construction grant may be awarded to a given property owner per fiscal year, regardless of how many properties the owner holds. However, an owner may receive both a Small Project Grant and a Building Improvement Grant within the same year if the first supports design work and the second supports subsequent construction. The current application window for this grant closes on January 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM. To apply, individuals must submit their application to city staff, who will review it for completeness and compliance with design standards outlined in the Dallas Development Code. If an application is incomplete, the applicant has 45 days from notification to provide the missing information. Projects requiring a city building permit must secure it within six months of grant approval. Upon successful completion of the project, the Grant Administrator will confirm that work meets approved plans, after which reimbursements will be issued within 30 days of receiving all paid invoices and receipts.