Choice Neighborhood Initiative Commercial Exterior Revitalization Grant
Program Details
The Choice Neighborhood Commercial Exterior Revitalization Grant was established by the Department of City Development in partnership with the Havenwoods Business Improvement District and the Critical Community Improvement Plan. This grant provides financial assistance for exterior building enhancement to eligible property owners and lessees in the Havenwoods community. This program provides up to 80% in reimbursements for eligible costs generally limited to $25,000. Applicant’s total project cost must exceed $2,000 for eligibility. Routine maintenance and repairs are eligible if part of a larger project. Additional guideliens apply and resources may be available. Contact program staff for additional information. For more information about the Milwaukee Choice Neighborhood Initiative (CNI), visit the CNI website.
Eligible Improvements
Eligible improvements that may be considered:
- Complete façade renovation
- New sign (must adhere to façade design guidelines)
- Windows and door repair or replacement
- Awnings
- Façade restoration of brickwork and masonry
- Landscaping and fencing
- Painting or cleaning of the façade exterior
- Exterior lighting
Eligible Geography
The general eligible geography of the Choice Neighborhood Commercial Exterior Revitalization Grant is the area located between Mill Road to the North, North 76th Street to the West, Villard Avenue to the South, and Sherman Boulevard to the East. See the image below for a visual representation of the eligible geography for this program.
Eligible Uses
Only properties used for business activity are eligible for these grants. The following are not elgibile:
- Properties whose owner has any tax delinquent property in the City of Milwaukee
- Property in litigation
- Property in condemnation or receivership
- Property owned by religious groups
- Property that is exempt from property taxes
- Properties used for schools, charities, clubs, organizations, etc.
- Exclusively residential buildings
- National franchise or retail chain stores
- CCT reserves the right to deny grant applications that do not meet program guidelines
Additional Information
The Choice Neighborhood Commercial Exterior Revitalization Grant is a reimbursement program. Work done prior to approval of the grant by the Business Resource Committee will be ineligible. For more information regarding required materials for the application, eligibility requirements and application review process, view the grant application or contact grant program staff.
Program Brochure and Application
Brochure Application
Grant Program Contact
Vanessa Claypool - Economic Development Specialist
(414) 286-5820
[email protected]
Additional Financing Resources
Choice Neighborhood Small Business Revolving Loan Fund
The Milwaukee Choice Neighborhood Small Business Revolving Loan Fund is a small business loan fund administered by WWBIC to create opportunities and increase local incomes through the support of small businesses located in the Choice Neighborhood boundaries.
Both start-up and existing businesses are eligible for this fund. Loans range from $1,000 to $250,000. Funds can be used for: Start-up capital, inventory and equipment, business expansion, working capital, and business support.
Coaching. Capital. Collaboration.
WWBIC is proud of the way it sustains relationships with itsclients. Ther Small Business Consultants and professional volunteers provide ongoing support to WWBIC loan clients. In-depth business assistance for WWBIC borrowers ensures that business owners have access to the tools and skills they need to grow profitable and sustainable business.
Throughout the term of a loan WWBIC provides:
- Annual site visits & one-on-one coaching
- Promotional & networking opportunities
- Resource referral network
- 24/7 access to WWBIC's Initiate Portal, an online business resource with over 100 tools, videos, and guides
Put Your Dreams To Work - Apply Today (Loans)
Contact Greg Martin at [email protected] or (414) 263-5450
Loan fund in partnership with WWBIC & the Choice Neighborhood Initiative
Looking for resources and quality expert advice to help launch and grow your business? WWBIC can assist through its wide variety of workshops and events. Classes are taught by dedicated staff and volunteer experts. Courses range from one-hour entrepreneurial exploration classes to a comprehensive multi-session business planning series, “Start, Run, Grow” and networking events.
Register: www.wwbic.com/classes or (414) 263-5450
Program Partners
