Business Façade Improvement Grant Program

The City of Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee has established the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program as part of its broader effort to strengthen the local economy and enhance the visual appeal of its commercial corridors. The program reflects the City’s recognition that vibrant, well-maintained business districts contribute significantly to community health by supporting employment, providing goods and services, and improving overall quality of life. By investing in the exterior appearance and functionality of commercial properties, the City aims to encourage reinvestment, attract customers and tenants, and foster long-term economic vitality. The primary purpose of the grant program is to provide financial assistance to existing businesses and property owners for façade and exterior improvements. Eligible projects include a wide range of enhancements such as masonry repairs, storefront upgrades, painting, signage, lighting, landscaping, accessibility improvements, and architectural design services. The program also allows certain structural expansions to existing buildings and improvements related to parking, access control, and safety compliance when required. However, the grant strictly excludes interior-only renovations, general maintenance, inventory purchases, and any work completed prior to formal approval. Funding is structured as a 50/50 matching reimbursement grant, with a maximum award of up to $10,000 per project. Applicants are required to contribute an equal or greater amount toward the total project cost, meaning a full $10,000 grant requires at least $10,000 in matching funds. The City allocates a total of $50,000 annually for the program, and funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis until depleted. Importantly, all grant funds are reimbursed only after project completion, verification, and submission of appropriate documentation such as receipts and proof of payment. Eligibility is limited to businesses and properties located within the Soddy-Daisy city limits and zoned for commercial use. Applicants must hold a valid City business license, be current on all property taxes, and comply with applicable building codes at the time of application and upon project completion. For leased properties, the property owner must approve the project and enter into the grant agreement directly with the City. Certain entities, including industrial or residential properties, new construction on vacant lots, and businesses owned by City employees or officials, are explicitly excluded. The application process requires submission of a complete application packet to the City Planner, including detailed project descriptions, cost estimates, photographs, design renderings where applicable, proof of ownership, business licensing, and insurance documentation. After submission, applications are reviewed by City staff, and applicants are typically notified of funding decisions within approximately two weeks. If approved, applicants must execute a formal grant agreement and obtain all necessary permits before beginning any work. Once the project is completed, applicants must submit all required documentation, including itemized receipts and proof of payment, for reimbursement consideration. The City will inspect the completed work to ensure compliance with approved plans and applicable regulations. Only costs that were pre-approved and properly documented will be reimbursed. The program operates on a fiscal year basis from July 1 through June 30, with applications accepted throughout the year and required to be submitted by June 30 for consideration within that cycle. Overall, the Business Façade Improvement Grant Program is a targeted local initiative designed to incentivize property improvements, enhance commercial aesthetics, and support economic development within Soddy-Daisy. Its structured reimbursement model, clear eligibility criteria, and defined application process ensure that funds are used effectively to achieve measurable community benefits while maintaining accountability and compliance with municipal standards.

Ensure all documentation is complete and detailed including visual renderings and cost estimates; do not begin work prior to approval; align project with eligible exterior improvements and code compliance