Business Enhancement Grant Program

The Business Enhancement Grant Program is administered by the City of Wilton Manors to support improvements to existing commercial properties with the goal of enhancing the overall appearance and vitality of local businesses. The Program provides financial incentives to encourage private investment in the exterior renovation of properties, aiming to improve curb appeal, reduce vacancies, and increase reuse of underutilized buildings along major commercial corridors. Eligible applicants must be property owners or tenants with the property owner's approval, and the property must be located within the City of Wilton Manors. Additionally, properties must be at least ten years old and free from outstanding taxes, liens, or fees. Improvements must conform to federal, state, and local regulations, including review and approval by the City’s Development Review Committee and Historic Preservation Board, if applicable. The grant offers up to $10,000 or 50% of eligible project costs, whichever is less, on a reimbursement basis. Projects must submit a minimum of three qualified bids, with grant amounts based on the lowest bid (except for mural projects). Funding is awarded on a first come, first served basis, limited to one grant per property or tenant per fiscal year, with a maximum of $10,000 in total funding over five years. All improvements must be completed within six months of the grant agreement and maintained for at least three years following completion. Properties that change ownership must still uphold these maintenance requirements, or the City may seek repayment. Eligible improvement activities include exterior lighting, signage, murals, ADA upgrades, hurricane windows and doors, and other enhancements visible from the public right-of-way. Ineligible expenses include roof and HVAC repairs, interior renovations, sweat equity, unlicensed labor, and costs not contributing to visual improvements. The City will not fund work started prior to grant approval. Applications are reviewed by a city-appointed committee and, upon recommendation, approved by the City Manager. Grantees must secure all required permits within 90 days of agreement execution, and projects must pass final inspections to receive reimbursement. The City of Wilton Manors may reject applications or request additional information and retains the right to promote funded projects publicly.

Do not begin improvements before grant approval. Improvements must be maintained for three years and be visible from the street.