Program Overview
The West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) offers support to businesses celebrating a grand opening inside the DDA District. Each business may choose the style and scale that fits their brand. Examples include an in-store reception with light hors d’oeuvres and libations, a restaurant launch with live music, or a targeted advertising push to announce your business location. Businesses that undergo a material rebrand within the past 12 months may apply for assistance to host a public re-opening event. Material rebrand includes a new legal or trade name, new brand identity, and a substantive change in concept, offerings, or interior that supports the new brand. One award per location within 24 months.

What the DDA Provides 

• Reimbursement up to $1,000 dollars in matching funds. The DDA reimburses 50 percent of eligible, grand-opening expenses up to a maximum of $1,000 dollars. To receive the full amount, eligible expenses must total $2,000 dollars or more. 
• Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches membership. One complimentary first-year membership valued at $450 dollars. 
• Email promotion. Distribution of your invitation to our subscriber lists, including 11K plus recipients, and sharing with area VIPs when appropriate. 
• Marketing visibility. Potential inclusion in The Downtown Update newsletter and on DowntownWPB and DDA social channels. 
• Event coordination. Assistance connecting with key stakeholders and city partners for your ribbon cutting or celebration. 

Eligibility 

• Your business location must be inside the DDA District. To view the DDA Boundary Map CLICK HERE 
• The DDA and the business must mutually agree on the grand opening date and time. 
• Applications must be approved in writing by the DDA before any reimbursement is issued. 
• If receiving City or CRA funds for same facade scope, the project is not eligible for additional DDA funds 

Timeline and Deadlines 

• Processing and approval can take up to 4 weeks. 
• Applications submitted less than 4 weeks prior to the event date will not be considered. 
• Please allow up to 30 days after you submit complete reimbursement materials for processing. 

Eligible Expenses
Expenses must be reasonable, customary, and directly related to the grand opening. 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, signage stands 
• Marketing and promotion such as printed invitations, flyers, social ads, or postcard mailings 
• Photography or videography to capture the event 

Requirements 

• Submit a completed application with a W-9.  
• After the event, provide copies of paid invoices and receipts for eligible expenses. 
• The DDA must be listed on your invitation and event materials. Use approved DDA logos. [CLICK HERE] 

For additional information, contact:
Tiffany Faublas, Director of Marketing & Communications
West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority
107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
(561)833-8873  • TFaublas@DowntownWPB.com  
 

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.

Boundaries
Businesses located in the DDA District: to view the DDA Boundary Map CLICK HERE

Eligibility 

• Located within the DDA District 
• Work cannot begin before written DDA approval or prior communication to the DDA 
• Applicants must hold a current City of West Palm Beach business tax license and provide a copy 
• No liens, outstanding taxes, code violations, or City debts for the applicant or the subject space 
• Examples of improvements include: 
• 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 
• Interior work, routine maintenance, and improvements not visible from the public realm are not eligible. 
• If receiving City or CRA funds for same facade scope, the project is not eligible for additional DDA funds 

Ineligible Business 

• Financial services regulated by state or federal agencies 
• Wholesale only businesses 
• National brands in any category 
• Tattoo, body piercing, or body art shops 
• Smoking products and accessories, vape shops 
• Medical marijuana dispensaries and CBD retailers 
• Nightclubs, bars, and liquor stores 
• Any business not permitted by City code 
• Any business or building with outstanding code violations or City debt for the space or parcel requested 

Grant Terms 

• Amount: Up to 50% of the cost of exterior improvements made to building facades. Storefront exterior improvements not to exceed $10,000. Building exterior improvements not to exceed $20,000 (Note: Stand-alone building or building facade more than 25,000 sq. ft.)   
• Application must be approved in writing by the DDA prior to commencing work and expenditures. 
• 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 
• 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 
• One active application per business location 
• Processing and approval may take up to 12 weeks 
• Project completed within 18 months of award. If not, the grant award shall be automatically revoked, and the recipients will be required to resubmit the grant application. 
• Grants are not approved once allocated funds are exhausted 
• Change orders require written DDA approval 
• If approved for a new awning, it is expected to protect it during hurricane season. If a hurricane warning is issued, remove the awning to prevent damage. The DDA will not reimburse damages to awnings. 
• A location that has received a facade award may reapply after 3 years 

How to apply
Submit the full application with all required documents listed below: 

• Project description that lists scope, materials, and a target completion date 
• Two verifiable bids for each scope item from licensed professionals. Identify your preferred vendor and the reason 
• A single bid is acceptable if only one qualified contractor exists for that scope, explain why 
• Current City business tax license 
• Evidence of no outstanding City liens or taxes on the building or parcel 
• At least one current photo of the facade and any detail areas 
• At least one rendering or photo simulation of the proposed outcome 
• Property owner authorization letter if the applicant is a tenant 

After approval 

• A DDA representative will conduct a visual inspection after completion 
• Submit final paid invoices, proof of payment, and completion photos 
• Additional information may be requested by DDA staff or the DDA Board 

Inadequately documented applications will not be reviewed.

For additional information, 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 

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. Our goal is to activate the district year-round, boost economic activity for local businesses, and celebrate the people, culture, and public spaces that make our downtown unique.

Partnering with DDA may provide: 

• Cash sponsorships 
• In-kind promotion through DDA channels, including but not limited to:  
• Downtown West Palm Beach Newsletter (11K+ subscribers) 
• Downtown West Palm Beach Facebook posts (41K+ likes) 
• Downtown West Palm Beach X posts (22K+ followers) 
• Downtown West Palm Beach Instagram posts (64K+ followers) 
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Newsletter (1700+ subscribers)  
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Facebook posts (6,800+ likes)  
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District X posts (2,700+ followers)  
• West Palm Beach Arts & Entertainment District Instagram posts (14K+ followers) 
• Flyer distribution to downtown businesses and condominium communities 
• Event calendar listings distributed by our retained PR firm  

Requirements: 

• Event location must be within DDA boundaries. [CLICK HERE for Boundary Map] 
• Events are preferred to be open and free to the public. 
• Applications must be submitted at least 6 weeks before the event date. 
• Written approval from the DDA is required prior to any public use of DDA name or marks. 
• Application must include a completed W‑9. [CLICK HERE for Blank W‑9]  
• 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 will be determined based on the partnership level. 
• A post event recap is required within 30 days. Include final budget versus planned, attendance, media and social metrics, any survey results, and samples of materials showing DDA recognition.
• No more than 2 applications from the same producer will be considered per fiscal year, October 1 through September 30. 
• Financial assistance is at the sole discretion of the DDA. 

Exclusions and standards:
The DDA does not sponsor private parties, board meetings, quarterly meetings, or similar internal gatherings.
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. In addition to businesses that include Smoking products and accessories, vape shops   
Medical marijuana dispensaries and CBD retailers. Violation of this policy will require the producer to refund the full sponsorship amount.


For additional information, please contact:
Tiffany Faublas, Director of Marketing & Communications
West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority
107 S. Olive Avenue, Suite 200, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
(561)833-8873 •  TFaublas@DowntownWPB.com 

Program Overview
The Business Incentive Grant program offered by the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA) supports permanent leasehold improvements to ground-floor commercial spaces within the DDA District. Funding is designed to help new or existing businesses make significant, fixed improvements that stay with the building. The goal is to strengthen Downtown’s merchandise mix and assist with the rehabilitation of commercial properties.

Boundaries and Priority Uses 

• Businesses located in the DDA District: to view the DDA Boundary Map CLICK HERE 
• Businesses located on Clematis Street: active uses such as retail and arts-based businesses within the creative industries. Examples include galleries, design, film, architecture, and similar arts-driven enterprises. 

Eligibility
Applicants and properties must meet all of the following: 

• Located within the DDA District 
• Ground-floor commercial space 
• Improvements are permanent and remain with the building 
• All city permits obtained within 6 months of award and kept active 
• Project completed within 18 months of award 
• No liens, outstanding taxes, code violations, or City debts for the applicant or the subject space 
• Business use is permitted by City code 
• The space has not received a DDA Business Incentive Grant within the past 3 years 
• If receiving City or CRA funds for interior leasehold improvements, the project is not eligible for additional DDA funds 

Ineligible Business 

• Financial services regulated by state or federal agencies  
• Wholesale only businesses  
• National brands in any category  
• Tattoo, body piercing, or body art shops  
• Smoking products and accessories, vape shops  
• Medical marijuana dispensaries and CBD retailers  
• Nightclubs, bars, and liquor stores  
• Any business not permitted by City code  
• Any business or building with outstanding code violations or City debt for the space or parcel requested 

 
Grant Terms 

• Amount: Up to 25% of Total Improvement Cost for Leasehold Improvements (must stay with building). Maximum allowable amount not to exceed $75,000. 
• Disbursement: Single reimbursement upon completion and opening, after City inspection approval, proof of paid invoices, and issuance of the Business Tax Receipt. 
• Board review: Requests $50,000 or more go to the DDA Board in the order received. The Board must find that the project significantly improves the property, that improvements are permanent, and that the use supports the Downtown Merchandise Mix Plan. 
• No retroactive funding: Work cannot begin before written DDA approval. 
• Funds are limited each year and are awarded on a first come, first served basis 
• Processing and approval may take up to 12 weeks 
• Grants are not approved once allocated funds are exhausted 

How to apply
Application fee and background screening 

• $125 per applicant, due at submission. Each owner or applicant completes an application and fee.

Required documents 

• Cover letter outlining the project scope, community benefit, and requested grant amount 
• Proof of ownership interest or right to improve the space 
• Resume or brief bio for each property owner 
• Detailed statement describing how the grant funds will be used 
• Drawings, plans, and specifications 
• Itemized project budget 
• Current photos of the space and building conditions 
• Potential lessee information, if applicable 

Incomplete or inadequately documented applications will not be reviewed. Additional information may be requested by DDA staff or the Board.
 
After approval 

• Obtain all required City permits within 6 months and keep permits active 
• Complete construction within 18 months 
• Schedule final inspections, open for business, and submit proof of paid invoices and your Business Tax Receipt to receive reimbursement 

For additional information, 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 

Program Overview and Purpose 

On May 19, 2020, in accordance with the Governor's Executive Order, the City of West Palm Beach issued a Declaration of Emergency, which allowed expanded outdoor seating for restaurants under a Temporary Outdoor Dining (TOD) Program. This ensured businesses had the greatest ability to operate successfully during the COVID-19 economic recovery. 

When the City's Declaration of Emergency expired, the TOD Program ended, but many businesses desired to retain their expanded outdoor seating. The City, in conjunction with the West Palm Beach Downtown Development Authority (DDA), developed revised regulations to provide additional flexibility for business owners and comfort for patrons. These regulations are set forth in Chapter 78, Article XVIII (Parklet Ordinance) of the city code. For Parklet Permit Application Information, please contact Claudia Ibaven at cibaven@wpb.org.

Purpose of Parklets
Built along sidewalks, parklets expand the public realm by transforming parking stalls into lively outdoor places where people can eat, read, sit, and relax while supporting local businesses. 

Parklet Grant Program
The Parklet Grant Program provides funding to downtown businesses within the DDA District Boundaries to upgrade or install a parklet. The program reimburses eligible expenses related to the development, construction, and operation of a parklet. Downtown small businesses are encouraged to apply. 

Eligibility Requirements 

• Only parklets located inside the West Palm Beach DDA Boundary Map will qualify. 
• Businesses must follow all City requirements pertaining to the Parklet Ordinance. 
• The business must be open at the time of application. 
• Only one grant award per business location per fiscal year (October 1 – September 30; last day to apply is August 30). 
• If awarded, businesses may reapply three (3) years after a City Permit has been issued for their parklet. 
• Funding is limited and administered on a first-come, first-serve basis until exhausted. 

Grant Application Process 

Applicants must submit a complete application package through Submittable that includes the following: 

• Copy of the City of West Palm Beach Parklet Location Approval Letter 
• Copy of the Current City of West Palm Beach Parklet Permit (completed and approved) 
• Site plan of the parklet with details of new physical items to be installed with grant funds (e.g., seating, plantings) 
• Proof of receipts (paid invoices, receipts, etc.) 
• Applicant business’s W-9 

Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Additional information may be requested by DDA staff or board. 

Application Requirements and Guidelines 

• Maximum award amount: up to $10,000 per parklet location for qualifying reimbursable costs. 
• Processing and approval of projects may take up to six (6) weeks. 
• Applicants will receive a notification detailing grant amount, approved uses, reporting requirements, and conditions. 

Use of Funds 

Parklet Grant funds can be used for physical set-up or improvements that support outdoor dining. All awards are reimbursements. 

Qualifying reimbursable costs include: 

• Lumber/plywood; composite decking; paints/stains 
• Railing/fencing; contracted labor costs for construction and installation 
• Permits, licensing fees, and delivery/shipping costs 
• Prefabricated parklets (e.g., Dero) 
• Tables, chairs, built-in seating/tables 
• Planters, vegetation, umbrellas, canopies, shade structures 
• Lighting, signage, object markers (high-visibility reflectors) 
• Artist services integrated into the parklet 
• Cooling/heating elements; solar panels (power outlet option) 
• Bike racks, design fees, and parklet fees 
• Other materials approved by the City of WPB Parklet Program 

Grant Award Details 

100% reimbursement upon: 

• Completion of qualifying improvements (as determined by City of WPB officials) 
• Proof of paid invoices for improvements 
• Parklet space occupied and open for business 
• Subject to DDA staff review 

Grant recipients must obtain all required permits within 12 months of award approval and maintain them as active/current. 

Parklet projects must be completed within 24 months of award approval. Otherwise, the award is revoked, and the applicant must resubmit application for approval  

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