Since 1986, the Storefront Improvement Program (SIP) has provided free  conceptual design service and a financial incentive based on the resulting construction costs to small business owners that possess a valid Business Tax Certificate.

The  City’s Economic Development Division administers the program and selects projects that provide the greatest public benefit to commercial districts in need of revitalization.  Each application is reviewed for eligibility and evaluated based on current condition of the building/façade,  community need/demand for change, and creative value of the project, among other criteria.

For more information, including examples of completed projects, visit the City of San Diego Storefront Improvement Program  at:

http://www.sandiego.gov/economic-development/business/starting/improvement.shtml

What’s New? The City has recently stream-lined the SIP process, making it easier for small businesses to participate and shortening the start-to-finish time involved.

Also, California Bank and Trust has a new loan program that goes along with this program. Contact William Rivera at 619-521-4010 or william.rivera@calbt.com for more information!