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Commercial Tenant Improvement Grant (CTIG)

Invest in your property.
Strengthen your business.

The Commercial Tenant Improvement Grant supports interior build-outs and storefront improvements in Baltimore’s commercial corridors, turning empty storefronts into open businesses. 

How it works

The CTIG matches an applicant’s investment dollar for dollar, up to $70,000, or up to $80,000 for businesses that own the property they operate in. Projects must have at least $30,000 in eligible costs to apply. 

This is a reimbursement grant. The applicant contracts for, completes, and pays for the project, and BDC reimburses eligible costs once the work is done. All work must be approved before it begins. 

Who can apply

The CTIG is for business owners who lease or own their space in an eligible corridor, including businesses preparing to open. Arts and humanities nonprofits that operate a space open to the public are also eligible. Property owners who do not operate a business at the location are not eligible, though they may qualify for a Facade Improvement Grant. 

Where it applies

The CTIG is geographically restricted. Confirm that the property sits in an eligible corridor before planning a project. 

Check whether your property is in an eligible corridor

Properties just outside a boundary, within roughly a block, may be considered case by case. Applicants in that situation should contact BDC before applying. For more on how the boundaries were set, see the FAQ. 

The after photo of Checkerspot Brewing after completing updates to their facade with the help of a Facade improvement grant

What the grant can fund

Examples of eligible work include: 

  • Build-out of new or vacant commercial space
  • Electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems
  • Interior renovations and ADA accessibility improvements
  • Commercial equipment essential to the operation of the business, such as kitchen and refrigeration equipment, salon stations, tables and chairs, or fitness equipment
  • Storefront enhancements and signage
  • Security cameras, lighting, and access control
  • Point-of-sale and inventory systems, furniture and fixtures, and opening marketing

Recurring costs such as rent, payroll, utilities, and debt service are not eligible. The Terms and Conditions list every eligible and ineligible use. 

What BDC looks for

The CTIG is competitive, and meeting the requirements does not guarantee an award. Review focuses on how the finished project fits the character of the block, what it adds to the corridor and its mix of businesses, and the support a business has shown from its neighbors. BDC also works to direct these funds toward businesses and neighborhoods that have had less access to capital and investment. 

What grantees
commit to 

Each award carries commitments that continue after the project is finished: 

  • At least two permanent jobs created at the location within a year of closeout, with a commitment to hire Baltimore City residents 
  • A community benefit of the applicant’s choosing, proposed in the application. Examples include hiring and training local residents, sourcing from Baltimore businesses and makers, sponsoring community events, hosting YouthWorks placements, opening the space to community groups, or accepting SNAP and WIC. Other ideas are welcome. 
  • Maintenance of the funded improvements, and a short annual report to BDC for three years 

Applying

Applications are reviewed quarterly, with deadlines on December 31, March 31, June 30, and September 30. Awards are announced by the end of the following month. Funds are limited. 

Every applicant meets with a BDC representative at the project location before applying. Reaching out is the first step; that conversation covers the project, confirms eligibility, and helps shape a stronger application. 

Program Documents

  • Sample Application.
    For reference only and cannot be submitted.
    BDC provides the current application after the site visit.     
  • Business Plan Template Coming Soon
  • CTIG Project Budget Coming Soon

Terms & Conditions

Download the program guidelines:

English

Ready to Apply?

Complete the Grant Application Request Form to begin. A member of the BDC team will follow up with next steps.

Request Grant Application
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