Storefront Security Fund

The Storefront Security Fund is administered by the City of Seattle Office of Economic Development as part of its broader Back to Business program, which aims to support small businesses impacted by crime and economic disruption. The fund is designed to provide financial assistance to businesses seeking to proactively protect their physical storefronts from vandalism and property damage. By focusing on preventative measures rather than reactive repairs, the program aligns with public safety strategies and economic resilience goals within the city. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to reimburse businesses for investments in security improvements that reduce the likelihood of vandalism and enhance overall safety. The program operates on a reimbursement model, meaning applicants must first complete eligible purchases and then apply for repayment. Businesses may receive a one-time reimbursement of up to 10,000 dollars. The funding supports a range of physical security upgrades informed by Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design principles, emphasizing environmental and structural deterrents to criminal activity. Eligible expenses include improvements such as enhanced lighting, security window film, laminated or shatter-resistant glass, defensive landscaping, reinforced entry systems like gates and locks, alarm system equipment, and storefront signage that improves visibility and navigation. Certain costs are explicitly excluded, including security cameras, graffiti removal, personnel expenses, and losses due to theft. These restrictions ensure that funds are directed toward durable, preventative infrastructure rather than ongoing operational costs or reactive services. To qualify for funding, applicants must complete a Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design security assessment with a certified professional, such as a Seattle Police Department Crime Prevention Coordinator. Only purchases made after this assessment are eligible for reimbursement. The assessment involves an on-site walkthrough where the coordinator provides recommendations tailored to the business’s layout and vulnerabilities. Applicants are expected to use these recommendations to guide their purchasing decisions. Eligible applicants include small businesses and nonprofit entities operating within Seattle city limits that meet specific criteria. These include holding a valid Seattle business license, maintaining compliance with applicable laws, operating from a physical location accessible to the public, having no more than five locations and fifty full-time equivalent employees, and generating annual net revenue between 1,000 and 7 million dollars. Independently owned businesses, including franchises, may apply, provided they are not part of large chains. Certain business types, such as rental property operators, rideshare services, and adult entertainment establishments, are not eligible. The application process consists of several required steps. Applicants must first schedule and complete the CPTED security assessment, then plan and execute eligible purchases, ensuring proper documentation such as paid invoices and receipts is collected. Finally, applicants submit an online application for reimbursement, including detailed expense documentation and supporting information. Applications must be completed in one sitting and are submitted in English, though translation and assistance services are available. Applications are currently open and will remain available through December 2026 or until funding is exhausted, indicating a limited funding pool distributed on a rolling basis. Applicants are encouraged to apply promptly due to this constraint. The Office of Economic Development provides support via phone and email for questions, accessibility accommodations, and technical assistance. Submitted materials may be subject to public disclosure under Washington State law. The program represents a targeted effort by the City of Seattle to strengthen small business resilience through strategic, preventative investment in storefront security.

Follow CPTED recommendations closely and ensure all purchases occur after assessment; maintain clear documentation of payment and installation