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A Resolution Approving the Expansion of the Business Assistance Grant Program and Grant Guidelines
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Introduction
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Staff is proposing the expansion of the Business Assistance Grant Programs to include three (3) new grant programs designed to assist new and existing businesses.
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Recommended Action
Approve the Resolution.
Prior Board Action
The Board has taken the following prior action:
• On September 30, 2025, the Village Board had a study session to review staff’s proposal on expanding the Business Assistance Grant Programs. The Village Board gave feedback on the three recommended programs for staff to review and incorporate into the grant guidelines.
Background
The Village’s long-standing Commercial Façade Improvement Program (C-FIP) has supported over 40 businesses since its creation in 2018. The program was created to promote reinvestment in the Village’s commercial buildings, with a focus on potentially supporting historical preservation practices.
As the “one-stop-shop” business support launches, staff have received an increase in inquiries from business owners who need financial support to adhere to certain Village requirements. The requirements vary depending on the use of the space and the square footage of its location.
As a result of the feedback received from businesses, staff is proposing the expansion of the business assistance grant programs to three (3) new grants, in addition to the successful C-FIP program. The proposed three (3) grants are:
• Interior Façade Improvement Grant: 50% support of interior improvements of first-floor sales tax-generating businesses
• Climate Ready Business Grant: Up to 50% in support for businesses incorporating sustainable initiatives into their businesses
• Fire Safety Grant: 50% support of business needing to install fire alarms or sprinkler systems
Timing Considerations
If approved, the grants would be available for application submittal beginning January 1, 2026.
Budget Impact
There would be no budget impact to the expansion of the grant program. Staff would utilize the existing $80,000 budgeted annually for the C-FIP and reallocate those funds for the entire grant program.
Staffing Impact
The Development Services Department staff will continue to facilitate the business assistance grant programs.
DEI Impact
The Oak Park business community is extremely diverse, and the utilization of the long-standing C-FIP Program has been by both small and large businesses. The expansion of the grant program would allow for some grant opportunities for non-sales tax generating businesses to potentially receive assistance from the Village for sustainability initiatives and fire safety.
Community Input
The proposed grants were presented to the Business Association Council, a group representing our business districts, at their September meeting. The members were in support of the proposed grant programs. The proposed grants were also presented to the various established business district associations who were also in support of the expanded opportunities.
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommend approval of the program expansion.
Advantages:
• This action would alleviate some financial burden from small-business owners for unexpected costs as they navigate through the municipal process of opening a business.
• This action would support the Village’s goal of economic vitality.
Disadvantages:
• Some of the proposed grant eligibility requirements require first-floor sales tax-generating businesses.
• Neither of the façade programs would support professional service businesses.
Alternatives
Alternative 1:
The Village Board can ask staff to further research different avenues for supporting businesses.
Advantages:
• The current C-FIP program would continue to be available for first-floor sales tax-generating businesses.
• Staff can defer businesses to apply for state or county grants.
Disadvantages:
• Staff would be limited in supporting business owners who may not have the capital to make improvements to their space.
Alternative 2:
The Village Board can decide not to move forward with expanding the business assistance grant programs.
Advantages:
• This action allows staff to research different methods in supporting the business community.
Disadvantages:
• This action potentially limits business owners from making improvements to their business due to the capital investment.
Anticipated Future Actions
There are no anticipated future actions in relation to this item.
Prepared By: Noemy Diaz, Administrative Officer of Development Services
Reviewed By: Craig Failor, Development Services Director
Approved By: Kevin J. Jackson, Village Manager
Attachment(s):
1. Resolution
2. Guidelines for Climate Ready Business and Fire Safety Grants