Storefront Improvement Program

Storefront Improvement Program

The City of Fairbanks is pleased to announce the launch of the Storefront Improvement Program. The Storefront Improvement Program is a grant opportunity that provides a 50% match of up to $50,000 for businesses and non-profit organizations in downtown Fairbanks to renovate the exterior appearance of their buildings. This program is designed to the overall aesthetic appeal and economic vibrancy of the downtown area.

Program Area:

The program area is between 1st to 5th Avenue and Turner Street to Noble Street.

Program Overview:

• The grant program will reimburse up to $50,000 per project.
• Requests must have a minimum of a dollar-for-dollar match.
• Reimbursement will be provided upon submission of paid invoices and successful completion of a final inspection by City officials.
• Projects must be completed within 12 months of signing the grant agreement. A single six-month extension may be awarded on a case-by-case basis.
• Applicants may only have one project at a time.
• A licensed general contractor must but utilized for all projects costing over $10,000.
• Grantees must submit a final report including before and after photographs of the project.
• Receipts and proof of payment for all grant funded expenses must be provided.
• The City reserves the right to inspect the project at any time during and after completion.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Buildings proposed for façade improvements must have commercial activity as their primary purpose such as retail and specialty stores, services, restaurants,
• bars, cultural venues, professional offices, manufacturing business/industrial use.
• Buildings used by non-profit organizations for non-commercial public use may be eligible if the project is determined to add to the economic revitalization of downtown.
• Vacant buildings may be eligible, but applicants must have a clear plan to reactivate the site.
• Applicants must be property owners or tenants with written consent from property owners.
• Properties must be located within the designated program area.
• Eligible projects include exterior improvements such as painting, signage, lighting, awnings, windows, and door replacements.
• Projects must comply with local building / landscaping codes and any applicable historic preservation guidelines.
• Applicants must be current on property taxes, appropriate business licenses, and sales tax if applicable.

For more information:

View the Application Package

For any questions, please email downtown@fairbanks.us or call Mike Sanders at (907) 459-6760.