DTP Announces Two New Grants to Assist Businesses

DOWNTOWN TUCSON, AZ, June 25, 2020 – To help businesses in the downtown Business Improvement District (BID) overcome financial, marketing and operational challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, the Downtown Tucson Partnership has teamed up with Pima County to create the Downtown Outdoor Café Grant and Downtown Rebound Grant Programs.

Both programs are part of a larger partnership with DTP acting as liaison with businesses to provide grants to help businesses make the operational and physical changes needed to survive in this new and challenging business environment. Pima County’s work with DTP will provide a model to be replicated in other areas of the County.

The Downtown Outdoor Café Grant Program will help businesses build, expand or enhance their outdoor café areas by reimbursing costs associated with higher quality barriers, furnishings and amenities for outdoor seating. The program provides a grant of up to $5,000 for eligible project costs.

The following items are allowable expenses if purchased to create, enhance or expand an outdoor cafe: café tables, chairs, or umbrellas; platform, railing, barriers or temporary fencing; landscaping (planters/plants), misters, exterior speakers or equipment required to operate outside; and design or architectural fees.

The Downtown Rebound Grant Program will offset costs associated with COVID-19 expenses required to safely reopen under the new guidelines put forth by the CDC, the State of Arizona, and/or Pima County. The program provides a reimbursement of up to $2,000 for eligible project costs.

Eligible costs include Personal Protection Equipment (PPE); cleaning/disinfecting supplies and equipment; interior renovations to comply with new social distancing requirements; and exterior property improvements (i.e. façade, lighting, signage, awning) and marketing.

“We’re happy we can offer support to downtown businesses. The grants will help businesses make the changes necessary and stay afloat through this challenging time,” said Kathleen Eriksen, President & CEO of the Downtown Tucson Partnership. “We’re incredibly grateful to Pima County for partnering with DTP and supporting small businesses in this time of need.”

For more information and to apply, click here.