Businesses and property owners may apply for storefront improvements in eligible neighborhood commercial areas. You can confirm whether a property is eligible in the online application or by using the SIP Eligible Blocks App.

The business occupying the property must:

• Be customer-facing and serve the public at the property.
• Operate legally in Philadelphia with all required licenses and registrations.
• Be current on City taxes, utilities, and fees, or have an approved payment plan.
• Be current on applicable business or neighborhood improvement district fees.

The following groups aren’t eligible for SIP:

• Properties owned or occupied by religious institutions
• Schools, colleges, and universities
• Government offices and elected officials’ offices
• Nonprofit organizations

Eligible improvements are exterior improvements that visibly improve the storefront’s appearance. Examples include:

• New signs and fabric awnings.
• Exterior facade lighting.
• New windows and doors.
• Masonry repairs and brick pointing.
• New or repaired cornices and decorative trim.

SIP funds can’t be used for:

• New construction.
• Solid security grates or grates that are less than 75 percent see-through.
• Vinyl awnings.
• Removing cornices.
• Reducing the size of masonry openings or eliminating windows.
• Covering previously uncovered brick, stone, or limestone with paint, stucco, siding, or similar materials.
• Roof repairs or replacements.
• Interior renovations.
• Exterior security cameras. These may be eligible through the Business Security Camera Program.

To apply to the Storefront Improvement Program, interested business and property owners will have to:

1. Confirm that the property is in an eligible area.
2. Discuss the project with City staff or a neighborhood organization, if assistance is needed. You may also apply without a representative.
3. Obtain at least two contractor estimates.
4. Submit the online application and required documents.
5. Allow approximately three to four weeks for review and approval.
6. Obtain any required permits and begin work only after receiving written approval.
7. After completing the work, submit the required reimbursement documents.

Yes. A property or business owner may apply if a business that qualifies for SIP plans to occupy the space. Reimbursement will only be issued after the business is open and operating at the property.

No. You must apply and receive written approval before starting any work. Work completed before written approval won’t be eligible for reimbursement.

You must submit the following documents along with your application:

• Color digital photographs of your storefront and surroundings
• A picture, drawing, or illustration showing the planned work
• At least two contractor estimates
• A permission letter from the property owner if you are a tenant

The design review committee will review your proposed improvements and may recommend or require changes before approving the project.

If a neighborhood organization in your area has storefront design guidelines, you’re encouraged to discuss your plans with the organization before applying.

Applicants are responsible for selecting and hiring their own contractors. Contractors must be licensed to perform the proposed work in Philadelphia.

The City doesn’t recommend, endorse, or screen contractors. However, applicants may email SIP@phila.gov to request a list of contractors recently used by other applicants. Note, inclusion on the list doesn’t mean the City has evaluated or approved a contractor.

Email SIP@phila.gov to be connected with someone who can guide you through the application process.

Yes, you can review an example application to better understand the application process and requirements. Please email SIP@phila.gov to request an example application.

The Storefront Improvement Program can reimburse up to 50 percent of eligible improvement costs. You can receive a maximum of:

• $20,000 for a single commercial property.
• $30,000 for a corner property or property with multiple addresses.

Corner and multiple-address properties may receive more funding because they typically have larger storefronts.

A property may receive the maximum reimbursement once every five years. The five-year period begins when the reimbursement is issued. This restriction doesn’t apply to a new business applying for a new sign or awning.

Approved applicants have six months to complete the project. If additional time is needed, contact the program before the deadline to request an extension.

After completing the approved work, submit:

• Final invoices marked “paid in full.”
• Proof of payment.
• Copies of any required permits.
• Color photographs of the completed work.
• A signed W-9 and Reimbursement Requirement form.

Allow approximately four to six weeks for electronic payment after a complete reimbursement package is received and approved.

Contact the Storefront Improvement Program before making any changes. You must submit an updated estimate and receive approval before beginning the changed work. If you change contractors, the new contractor’s estimate must also be approved.