Small Business Enhancement Grant

Geographic Scope: Limited to The Rosewood Initiative's NPI (Neighborhood Prosperity Initiative) district in Portland, Oregon

Program Purpose: This program provides grants to small businesses or nonprofits for onsite renovations or construction projects that improve the overall appearance of the neighborhood.

Eligible Projects

The Rosewood Initiative is especially interested in permanent improvements such as:

• New lighting
• Signage
• Fencing
• Murals or painting
• Landscaping
• Interior or exterior improvements

Key Requirement: Projects must be "sticks and bricks" — permanent improvements or construction that cannot be moved from the site.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet ALL of the following criteria:

• Location: Must be located within The Rosewood Initiative's NPI district
• Project Type: Must involve permanent improvements or construction
• Physical Space: Business must have a physical storefront or space accessible to the public
• Match Requirement: Applicant must provide a 20% match of the grant amount (waivers available for financial hardship)
• Contractor Quotes: Business must obtain at least two quotes from contractors to determine reasonable budget
• Timeline: Project must be completed within one year of grant approval
• Lease Terms: If renting, business must have at least two years remaining on their lease
• Community Contribution: Applicants must demonstrate how their business contributes to the community and aligns with Rosewood Storefront Grant goals

Priority Applicants

Priority is given to businesses that:

• Enhance the neighborhood's appearance through renovations or improvements
• Create a welcoming space for customers and community members
• Support local economic activity and business growth
• Are owned by people of color, immigrants, refugees, and/or women (to address systemic barriers)

Support Available

• Match requirement waivers available for financial hardship
• Assistance with completing applications available

Sponsor: Prosper Portland

Address: The Rosewood Initiative, 14127 SE Stark St., Portland, OR 97233

Application Process

Timeline: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; businesses can apply at any time.

Application Requirements

1. Location Verification: Confirm your business is within The Rosewood Initiative's NPI district
2. Project Documentation:
   • Obtain at least two contractor quotes
   • Develop reasonable project budget based on quotes
3. Business Information:
   • Demonstrate how your business contributes to the community
   • Show alignment with Rosewood Storefront Grant goals
4. Financial Documentation:
   • Prepare evidence of 20% match funding (or request hardship waiver)
5. Lease Information (if applicable):
   • Provide proof of at least two years remaining on lease

Support Services

• Assistance with application completion is available
• Contact programs@rosewoodinitiative.org if you need help or have questions