BUSINESS FACADE IMPROVEMENT GRANTS

The East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership (EBNP) administers a City of Minneapolis Facade Improvement Program across our service area to help businesses, nonprofit organizations, and property owners upgrade and restore their building exteriors through matching grants.

Eligible applicants may receive a matching grant covering one-third of total project costs, up to a maximum award of $5,000.

For example: a $15,000 facade project would be supported by a $5,000 grant, with the applicant contributing $10,000.

All applicants must follow program guidelines, submit a complete application, and receive written approval before any work begins.

Download EBNP program flyer

Program Eligibility

Building owners and commercial tenants (with written property owner approval) may apply if:

Applicants should confirm eligibility before preparing an application.

Before You Apply

Please complete the following steps before submitting your application:

  • Confirm your property is located within an eligible commercial node

  • Review the program requirements and guidance from the City of Minneapolis Facade Improvement Program

  • You must schedule a virtual check-in or meeting with EBNP staff to review your project concept
    Contact: chris@eastbankmpls.org. We do not want you going through all of the steps below, only to learn your project may not qualify.

Early consultation helps avoid delays and improves approval timelines.

How to Apply

  1. Download the official Facade Grant Application and Participation Agreement.

  2. Define your project scope.

  3. Obtain property owner approval (if you are a tenant).

  4. Collect the required number of contractor bids or cost estimates.

  5. Submit your completed application and all required documentation to: chris@eastbankmpls.org

  6. Applications will be reviewed and accepted on a modified first-come, first-served basis prioritizing small independent businesses.

  7. Wait for written approval from EBNP before starting any work.

Projects started before approval are not eligible for reimbursement.

Requirements to Receive Grant Funds

After approval:

  • You must take clear “before project” photos

  • Complete all approved work within 9 months

  • You must take clear “after project” photos

  • Submit:

    • Final invoice(s)

    • Proof of payment

    • Proof of required City inspection(s)

    • Before and after photos

Once documentation is approved, reimbursement is typically issued within 30 days.

Grant FAQs

What improvements are eligible?

Eligible facade improvements may include:

  • New or repaired awnings

  • Business signage installation or restoration

  • Exterior painting, including murals

  • Siding and exterior finish restoration

  • Masonry repair and tuckpointing

  • Window and door replacement or upgrades

  • Exterior lighting improvements

What improvements are NOT ELIGIBLE?

  • Any type of landscaping (this includes the placement of seasonal planters)

  • Any work only visible in an interior hallway to a multi-business property

  • Any work behind a building/property

When are grant funds paid?

This is a reimbursement program. Funds are issued only after:

  • Application approval

  • Project completion

  • Submission of all required documentation

What is the required match?

Eligible commercial nodes require a 1:2 match, with:

  • Maximum grant: $5,000 per storefront

  • Example:
    $15,000 project = $10,000 applicant share + $5,000 grant

Need design inspiration?

Review facade design guidance and best-practice examples to help shape your project before you apply.

Questions or Project Consultations

East Bank Neighborhoods Partnership is available to help you plan a strong application and compliant project scope.

Contact:
chris@eastbankmpls.org or 612-234-1077