Small Business Support Fund

What is it?

The Small Business Support Fund (SBSF) is a commercial renovation program administered by Niagara Falls Community Development (NFCD) and funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The SBSF is a reimbursable grant program for business owners to cover commercial project expenses up to 50% of total project cost within the Niagara Falls Community Development Area.

Applicants are asked to present a detailed project plan and budget. NFCD staff will review applications and make awards. Application submission must be submitted no later than Tuesday, September 17, 2019.

Read the full SBSF document HERE.

Map of Niagara Falls Community Development Area
(Click image for full size PDF)

 
 

Renovation Priorities

  • Exterior renovation, code violation correction, and beautification

  • Buildings that include available residential units

  • Interior renovations that include improvements that will add lasting value to the building beyond business specific use

  • All renovations must be in compliance with relevant and established municipal code and design standards

  • Energy conservation measures

Eligible Renovation Types

  • Exterior renovations, entryways, exterior lighting, and signage

  • Structural repairs

  • Roof repairs

  • Mechanical and building system repairs or installation

  • Interior demolition and renovation

  • Interior build-out

Ineligible Renovation Types

  • Business specific equipment (interior)

  • Furnishing (interior)

How to Apply

Submit the SBSF Application Cover Sheet and a Letter of Intent (LOI) to Gail Bimont, NFCD Neighborhood Development Specialist, at gail.bimont@niagarafallsny.gov, along with the following documents:

  • Current Year Tax Installment(s)

  • Current Year County Tax

  • Recorded Deed

  • Current Water Board Receipt

  • Certificate of Incorporation

    (Please provide paid tax receipts or tax bills with cancelled checks.)

The LOI should include:

  • A description of the proposed renovation

  • A description of the business purpose that the renovation will serve

  • A renovation schedule

  • An overall project budget

    (More specific information will be discussed at the meeting with NFCD, scheduled upon receipt of the SBSF Application Cover Sheet, LOI, and documents listed above.)

Questions? Contact Gail Bimont at gail.bimont@niagarafallsny.gov or 716-286-8802.