The City of Chicago today announced the launch of its 2011 Facade Rebate Program.  The program, meant to facilitate façade improvements for neighborhood businesses through financial and technical aid, offers rebates in the form of matching grants of up to $20,000, to eligible commercial and industrial businesses and property owners who complete qualified facade rehabilitation projects. An eligible “facade” is the front face or elevation of the building which typically faces the street and contains windows and the principal entrance to the building.

“We are proud to once again announce the launch of this program,” said Department of Housing and Economic Development (HED) Commissioner Andrew J. Mooney.  “This program enhances the look of businesses throughout Chicago’s 77 communities.  The rebates allow establishments to improve the appearance of their facilities, enhancing the overall neighborhood and ultimately attracting more customers to the local economy.”

The 2011 Facade Rebate program is funded through the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, which funds projects in low- to moderate-income communities only.  Over the past three years, this program has assisted 44 businesses with grants totaling $500,000. 

Program applications are due by 4 PM on Friday, June 3, 2011. 

Applications and/or questions should be directed to Anne Coakley, Chicago Department of Housing and Economic Development, 121 N. LaSalle, Room 1006, Chicago, IL 60602.  Ms. Coakley can be reached by phone at (312) 744-8280.   The guide and application can be found on HED’s website, www.cityofchicago.org/hed by clicking first on the Economic Development link under Service Providers and then on “Apply to the Façade Rebate Program” link under Services.