Façade improvement grants…Applications for grants to help commercial businesses improve and restore the facades of their buildings will be available July 18. The Village will reimburse grant recipients for 50 percent of the costs of improvements up to $5,000. The minimum private investment is $2,500. Applicants must document that retail sales comprise at least 51 percent of the gross revenues from a first- floor business. For more information or to apply for a grant, email development@oak-park.us.
Economic development loans…The Village’s federally funded Section 108 Loan Program is accepting applications from qualifying businesses. Projects must meet Community Development Block Grant eligibility criteria, as well as meet requirements related to creating and retaining full-time jobs for low- and moderate income persons. Prospective loan applicants are urged to meet with Village staff prior to applying. For more information, visit www.oak-park.us/federalgrants or call 708.358.5416.