Sunday, November 30 marks the final day for Pasadena small business owners to apply for grants of up to $20,000 through the city’s new Commercial Façade Improvement Program.
The competitive grant program, announced Nov. 18, aims to help local businesses enhance their storefronts while revitalizing the aesthetic appeal of key commercial corridors throughout the city.
Program Funding and Scope
The City of Pasadena has allocated $200,500 for the initiative, targeting approximately 10 businesses in eligible areas. The program is funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant program.
“The Commercial Façade Improvement Program is part of our efforts to support and invest in our local business community,” said Eric Duyshart, director of the city’s Economic Development Department. “By helping businesses improve their storefronts, we’re also enhancing the overall vitality of our commercial corridors and making Pasadena an even more attractive place to shop, dine and explore.”
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, businesses must:
- Operate a street-level storefront in a CDBG-eligible census tract
- Have SAM.gov clearance and maintain good standing with the California Secretary of State
- Own the property or hold a lease extending at least three years beyond construction completion
- Possess an active Pasadena business license with no pending litigation against the city
Adult entertainment establishments, cannabis-related businesses, liquor stores, tobacco and vape shops, gambling establishments, pawn shops, check cashing businesses and nonprofit offices are not eligible.
Covered Improvements
The grants cover exterior enhancements including new or replacement signage and awnings, exterior painting or surface treatments such as murals, stucco, tile, stone and brickwork, installation or replacement of exterior doors, outdoor lighting upgrades, decorative or security fencing, and window-related work including replacement, re-glazing, vinyl decals, graphics and stencils.
Interior work, equipment and furniture are not eligible for funding.
Selection and Timeline
An evaluation committee comprising city staff and representatives from the Pasadena Community Foundation will score applications on a 100-point scale. Criteria include impact, capacity, demonstrated need and design vision.
Selected businesses will be announced in January 2026, with improvement work scheduled from January through May 2026. The program operates on a reimbursement basis, requiring businesses to complete approved improvements before receiving payment in June 2026.
More than 10 businesses may receive funding depending on requested amounts, since not all applicants may seek the maximum $20,000 grant.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by the end of day Sunday, Nov. 30. Program details and the application portal are available by clicking here.
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