Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Application Period: October 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027 

Program Overview

The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) offers the Parklet Grant Program to help businesses within the DDA District install or improve parklets. The program reimburses eligible expenses related to parklet development, construction, and operation. Downtown businesses are encouraged to apply. Parklets transform on-street parking spaces into outdoor areas for dining, seating, and gathering. They enhance the pedestrian environment, support local businesses, and contribute to an active and welcoming Downtown West Palm Beach. 

Background 

In May 2020, the City of West Palm Beach introduced a Temporary Outdoor Dining Program to allow restaurants to expand outdoor seating during the COVID-19 recovery. When the temporary program ended, many businesses expressed interest in retaining their expanded outdoor seating. The City, in coordination with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA), subsequently developed revised regulations to provide flexibility for businesses while establishing standards for parklet design, construction, and operation. 

Application Review and Funding 

Submission of an application does not guarantee approval or funding. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The DDA may request additional information or documentation during its review. All awards and program assistance are subject to available funding, program eligibility, and DDA approval. 

• Complete eligible applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis while program funds are available. 
• Processing and approval may take up to six (6) weeks. 
• The DDA reviews complete applications to determine program eligibility and the eligibility of proposed or completed expenses. 

Eligibility 

• Parklets must be located within the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) District. To view the DDA Boundary Map, CLICK HERE 
• The applicant’s business must be open and operating at the time of application. 
• The applicant must comply with all applicable City of West Palm Beach requirements pertaining to parklets, including Chapter 78, Article XVIII, Sec. 78-496 of the City Code Ordinances. 
• The applicant must provide a City of West Palm Beach Parklet Location Approval Letter. 
• The applicant must remain in good standing with applicable City and DDA requirements throughout the grant and reimbursement process. 

Eligible Expenses 

Qualifying expenses for parklet setup and improvements may include: 

• Lumber, plywood, composite decking, paints, and stains 
• Railing, fencing, and contracted construction and installation labor 
• Permits, licensing fees, and delivery or shipping costs 
• Prefabricated parklets 
• Tables, chairs, and built-in seating or tables 
• Planters, vegetation, umbrellas, canopies, and shade structures 
• Lighting, signage, and object markers or high-visibility reflectors 
• Artist services incorporated into the parklet 
• Cooling or heating elements and solar panels with a power outlet option 
• Bike racks, design fees, and parklet fees 
• Other materials approved by the City of West Palm Beach Parklet Program 

Grant Terms 

• The grant reimburses up to 100% of approved eligible expenses, not to exceed $10,000 per parklet location or the approved grant award amount. 
• Funding is reimbursement-based. Reimbursement will be processed only after the parklet has been installed, all contractors have been paid, the City has completed required inspections and signed off on all required permits, and the DDA has reviewed the required reimbursement documentation. 
• A business may receive no more than one Parklet Grant per eligible business location per fiscal year, subject to the reapplication requirement below. 
• A business that previously received a Parklet Grant may reapply three (3) years after the City of West Palm Beach Parklet Permit was issued for the previously funded parklet. 
• Recipients must obtain all required permits within 12 months of award approval and maintain them as active and current. 
• Projects must be completed within 24 months of award approval. If the project is not completed within that period, the award will be revoked and the applicant must submit a new application for approval. 

How to Apply 

Submit a complete application through the DDA’s designated online platform during the application period. Complete all applicable fields and use “N/A” where appropriate. Provide a project description, total estimated project cost, grant amount requested, and anticipated completion date. Identify any work already completed or expenses already incurred, and disclose any previous Parklet Grant award for the business location. Include the following required documents: 

• City of West Palm Beach Parklet Location Approval Letter. 
• Current W-9 for the applicant’s business. Download a blank IRS Form W-9 
• A project description identifying the proposed improvements, anticipated completion date, total estimated cost, and grant amount requested. 
• A site plan identifying the parklet improvements or items for which reimbursement is requested. 
• Itemized estimates, proposals, or other documentation supporting the project costs. For completed work submitted for consideration, include paid invoices, receipts, and proof of payment. 
• Photographs of the existing parklet or proposed project area, when applicable.  
• Current, approved City of West Palm Beach Parklet Permit. 

After Approval 

The DDA will notify approved applicants of the grant amount, approved uses, reporting requirements, and award conditions. 

Qualifying improvements must be completed, as verified by City of West Palm Beach officials, and the parklet must be occupied and open for business. Reimbursement is subject to DDA staff review and the grant limits stated above. The DDA may request additional information or documentation during its review. For additional information, contact: Sherryl Muriente, Public Realm Director West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority 107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200 West Palm Beach, FL 33401 (561) 833-8873   SMuriente@DowntownWPB.com 

FY 2026-2027 

Application Period: October 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027 

Program Overview 

The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) partners with nonprofits, arts organizations, and event producers to deliver high quality, community focused events that showcase Downtown West Palm Beach. The program is intended to activate the district year-round, support economic activity for local businesses, and provide cultural, recreational, educational, or community experiences that benefit downtown. 

Application Review and Funding 

Submission of an application does not guarantee approval or funding. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The DDA may request additional information or documentation during its review. All awards and program assistance are subject to available funding, program eligibility, and DDA approval. 

• Applications must be submitted and approved before the event. The DDA does not provide retroactive sponsorship for events that have already occurred. 
• No more than two (2) events per event producer may be approved for DDA sponsorship during the fiscal year. 
• The DDA may approve cash sponsorship, in-kind promotional support, or a combination of both. The amount and type of support approved may differ from the amount requested. 
• Approval of a sponsorship does not create an expectation or guarantee of funding for future years or events. 
• Applications and supporting materials may be subject to Florida’s public-records laws. 

What the DDA May Provide 

1. Cash sponsorships 
2. In-kind promotion through DDA channels, including but not limited to:  

• DowntownWPB Newsletter; 14.5K+ 
• DowntownWPB Facebook: 46K+ 
• DowntownWPB Instagram: 71K+ 
• DowntownWPB X: 22K+ 
• DowntownWPB TikTok: 2.8K+ 
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Newsletter; 1.7K+ 
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Facebook: 6.8K+ 
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Instagram: 14K+ 
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District X: 2.7K+ 
• Flyer distribution to downtown businesses and condominium communities 
• Event calendar listings distributed by the DDA or its retained PR firm 
• Other in-kind support, as available 

Note: Final promotional support, including placement, timing, and channel selection, will be determined by the DDA based on the approved sponsorship, availability, and overall alignment. In-kind promotional support is not a cash payment. 

Eligibility and Requirements 

• The event must be located within DDA boundaries. [CLICK HERE for Boundary Map] 
• Events are preferred to be open and free to the public. Ticketed events may be considered based on overall public benefit and program alignment. 
• Applications are accepted from October 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027, while program funds are available. 
• A complete application must be submitted at least six (6) weeks before the event date. 
• The application must include a sponsorship deck or equivalent written proposal, an itemized event budget, and a completed W-9. [CLICK HERE for Blank W‑9]. Nonprofit applicants must also provide proof of 501(c)(3) status. 
• The DDA, Downtown West Palm Beach, and/or the West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District must be listed as a sponsor on all promotional materials. Final placement subject to DDA approval. 
• A post-event recap is required within 30 days of the event. The recap must include a final budget comparing projected and actual revenue and expenses, attendance, available media and social metrics, available survey results, event photos, and proof of agreed DDA sponsor recognition and deliverables. 
• Failure to submit the required post-event recap may affect eligibility or funding consideration for future sponsorship requests.   

Exclusions and standards 

• The DDA does not sponsor private parties, board meetings, quarterly meetings, or similar internal gatherings. 
• The DDA does not sponsor events promoting smoking products and accessories, vape products, medical marijuana dispensaries, or CBD retailers. 
• Sponsored events may not include language, materials, or displays that are political, profane, sexually explicit, obscene, violent, or discriminatory based on race, ethnicity, religion, gender, or sexuality. Violation of this policy may require the producer to refund the full sponsorship amount. 

Payment and Repayment Terms 

Approved cash sponsorships are paid upon receipt of the required executed sponsorship documentation, a valid invoice, and completed W-9. Payment timing and any additional conditions will be outlined in the sponsorship agreement or sponsorship letter.

If repayment of any portion of the sponsorship is required due to cancellation, noncompliance, or violation of sponsorship terms, the amount and repayment requirements will be specified in the applicable sponsorship agreement or sponsorship letter. 

For additional information, please contact: 

Tiffany Faublas, Director of Communications & Strategy 

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority 

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL 33401 

(561)833-8873 

TFaublas@DowntownWPB.com

FY 2026-2027 

Application Period: October 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027 

Program Overview 

The Facade Improvement Grant, offered by the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) in collaboration with the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), supports permanent exterior upgrades that improve the look, function, and safety of commercial properties within the DDA District. The program enhances the exterior appearance of buildings to strengthen curb appeal, improve the visual landscape, and elevate the overall aesthetic of Downtown West Palm Beach. By investing in visible, high-impact improvements, the program helps attract quality tenants and new businesses, supports the retention of existing businesses, and creates a vibrant, welcoming environment for residents and visitors. 

Application Review and Funding 

Submission of an application does not guarantee approval or funding. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The DDA may request additional information or documentation during its review. All awards and program assistance are subject to available funding, program eligibility, and DDA approval. 

• Application must be approved in writing by the DDA prior to commencing work and expenditures. 
• The Facade Grant Program does not provide retroactive reimbursement for projects or improvements completed prior to application approval. 
• Applications shall be reviewed by DDA staff in the order they are received. 
• Funds are limited each year and are awarded on a first come, first served basis. 
• One active application per business location. 
• Processing and approval of projects may take up to 12 weeks. 
• Project must be completed within 18 months of award approval. If not, the grant award shall be automatically revoked, and the recipient will be required to resubmit the grant application
• Once approved, the award amount is final and cannot increase. 
• The award may be reduced if final paid invoices are lower than the approved estimate. 

Eligibility

• Eligible commercial properties must be located within the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) District. To view the DDA Boundary Map, CLICK HERE 
• Eligible businesses must hold a current City of West Palm Beach Business Tax Receipt and provide a copy. 
• There must be no outstanding City liens, delinquent property taxes, applicable code violations, or other City debt associated with the applicant, property owner, or subject space. 
• If the property is not owned by the eligible commercial business, the application must include the property owner's written authorization to perform the proposed improvements. 
• If the applicant is receiving funds from the City/CRA for facade improvements, the applicant is not eligible to receive additional funds from the DDA. 

Eligible Improvements

Examples of eligible improvements include, but are not limited to: 

• Awnings and canopies 
• Signage that meets City code 
• Exterior lighting that improves safety and aesthetics 
• Storefront doors and windows 
• Painting, stucco repair, and facade finishes visible from the public right of way 
• Landscape beds, planters, and irrigation that frame the storefront 
• Accessibility features at the primary entrance that meet ADA standards 
• Removal or relocation of security grilles that improves street presence 

Ineligible Businesses

• Financial services regulated by state or federal agencies 
• Wholesale Businesses: Defined as businesses that primarily sell goods in bulk or for resale to other businesses, distributors, or retailers, rather than directly to the general public. 
• National brands in any category: Defined as operating 15 or more locations in at least three U.S. states, including at least five locations in Florida, under a common brand name. Franchise and licensed locations are included.
• Tattoo parlors / body piercing / body art shops 
• Smoking products and accessories, vape shops 
• Medical marijuana dispensaries, CBD products 
• Nightclubs and bars / liquor stores 
• Any business with outstanding code enforcement violations or debt to the City 
• Any building with outstanding code enforcement violations or debt to the City, specific to the individual space the tenant is applying for funding for facade improvements 
• Any business that is not permitted by City code 

Ineligible Improvements 

• Interior improvements 
• Routine maintenance 
• Improvements that are not visible from the public realm
• Expenses or scope of work receiving duplicate reimbursement from another City or CRA funding program

Grant Terms

The program provides grants to business owners or property owners for up to 50% of the cost of exterior improvements made to building facades for awnings, signs, landscaping, and other similar exterior improvements. 

• Storefront exterior improvements: not to exceed $10,000. 
• Building exterior improvements: not to exceed $20,000 for a stand-alone building or building facade more than 25,000 sq. ft. 
• Changes in project cost that may affect the approved grant must be submitted to the DDA in writing. 
• A previous award recipient may reapply for a facade grant for the same location/business three years after reimbursement has been finalized 
• If approved for a new awning, it is expected that the awning be protected from damage during hurricane season. If a hurricane warning is issued, the awning should be removed so that it is not damaged. The DDA will not provide additional reimbursement for damages to awnings. 

How to Apply 

Submit the full application with all required documents, including: 

• A description of the proposed work and anticipated completion date. 
• Two verifiable bids for each aspect of the project, unless the project is being completed by a sole contractor. Bid(s) must be from licensed professional(s) qualified to perform the work. 
• Identification of the preferred vendor and the reason for the preference. 
• At least one photograph of the facade area and any necessary detail areas, such as signage or awnings. 
• At least one photograph or rendering of what the completed project will look like. 
• A current City of West Palm Beach Business Tax Receipt. 
• Proof of current property tax and lien status. 
• Property owner authorization, if the applicant is leasing. 
• A current W-9. 

After Approval 

• Once the DDA approves a grant, the applicant will be requested to provide the DDA with a schedule for completion of the work. 
• After approved facade work is complete, it must be inspected by a DDA representative. 
• The applicant must submit at least one photograph of the completed project, final paid invoices, and proof of payment for the approved qualifying facade improvements. 
• Payment shall not exceed the amount approved by the DDA or 50% of the total eligible bill. 
• Additional information may be requested by the DDA staff or Board. 

  Inadequately documented applications will not be reviewed. Be sure to include all necessary documentation.

For additional information, please contact: 

Teneka James-Feaman, Executive Director 

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority 

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200 

West Palm Beach, FL 33401 

(561) 833-8873 

TJames@DowntownWPB.com 

Fiscal Year 2026-2027 

Application Period: October 15, 2026 through August 31, 2027 

Program Overview 

The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) offers support to businesses celebrating a grand opening within the DDA District. The program is designed to assist businesses with launching and promoting their Downtown location through financial assistance, marketing support, and coordination of ribbon-cutting activities. 

Established businesses may also be considered for assistance following a significant rebrand, change in ownership, relocation within the DDA District, or substantial renovation resulting in a formal reopening. Routine branding updates, anniversaries, or general promotional events are not eligible. Eligibility will be determined by the DDA.

Application Review & Funding 

Submission of an application does not guarantee approval or funding. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. The DDA may request additional information or documentation during its review. All awards and program assistance are subject to available funding, program eligibility, and DDA approval. 

• Applications must be submitted at least six (8) weeks prior to the proposed event date and approved before the event occurs. Retroactive reimbursement is not available for grand openings, reopenings, or related events that have already taken place. 
• Approved reimbursement amounts may be less than the $1,000 maximum based on eligible documented expenses. 
• Approval of program assistance does not create an expectation or guarantee of funding or assistance for future openings, reopenings, or events. 

What the DDA May Provide 

Approved applicants may receive: 

• Reimbursement of 50% of eligible grand opening expenses, up to $1,000. To receive the maximum reimbursement, eligible expenses must total at least $2,000. 
• A complimentary first-year membership with the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, valued at $450. 
• Promotional and ribbon-cutting support from the DDA, which may include email promotion, inclusion in The Downtown Update newsletter and DowntownWPB/DDA social channels, and coordination with key stakeholders and city partners. 

Note: Final promotional support, including placement, timing, and channel selection, will be determined by the DDA based on availability and overall program coordination. 

Eligibility & Requirements 

• The business must be located within the DDA District. To view the DDA Boundary Map, CLICK HERE 
• The DDA and the business must mutually agree on the grand opening or reopening date and time. 
• Established businesses requesting assistance for a reopening will be reviewed by the DDA to determine program eligibility. 
• Submit a completed application and current W-9.  
• Once the event is confirmed, provide the business logo, an interior photo of the business, and any business-created grand opening announcement materials, if applicable. 
• Include the DDA logo or appropriate DDA recognition on applicable grand opening promotional materials. Use approved DDA logos. [CLICK HERE] 
• Businesses may not receive reimbursement from the DDA and another public funding source, including the City of West Palm Beach or CRA, for the same eligible grand opening expense. 

Eligible Expenses 

Expenses must be reasonable, customary, and directly related to the approved grand opening or reopening event. Examples include: 

• Event hospitality such as food, beverages, and serviceware 
• Entertainment such as a DJ or small band 
• Event rentals such as tents, tables, chairs, or signage stands 
• Marketing and promotion such as printed invitations, flyers, social advertising, or postcard mailings 
• Photography or videography to capture the event 

Reimbursement & Payment Terms 

• After the event, provide paid invoices and receipts for approved eligible expenses. 
• Reimbursement will only be issued for approved eligible expenses. 
• Please allow up to 30 days after complete reimbursement materials are submitted for processing. 

 For additional information, contact: 

Tiffany Faublas, Director of Communications & Strategy

West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority

107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL 33401

(561)833-8873

TFaublas@DowntownWPB.com