Storefront Improvement Program (SIP)

Geographic Scope: Downtown Kodiak, Alaska (specifically businesses located from 332 Shelikof Street to Marine Way, including Kodiak Marine area, Best Western to Big Rays, Marine Way to Hana House, and Center Street downtown area)

Focus Areas:

• Storefront exterior improvements including signage upgrades
• Window replacement
• Entrance painting
• Creating welcoming, customer-friendly storefront appearances
• Improving public safety and access

Program Goals:

• Promote revitalization of Downtown Area to attract visitors and residents
• Encourage new development and increase foot traffic
• Ensure healthy economy by supporting diverse local businesses
• Improve storefront exteriors in Downtown core area adjacent to St. Paul Harbor

Eligibility:

• Businesses located in the eligible Downtown Kodiak area
• No application fee required

Award Structure:

• Matching grant program (reimbursement-based)
• Grant funds paid upon completion of pre-approved project
• No disbursement for work completed before Commitment Letter is provided and signed
• Program anticipates funding 2-3 projects per year

Partners: Kodiak Economic Development Corporation (KEDC), Kodiak Area Native Association (KANA), City of Kodiak

First Cycle Results (2023-2024):

• 5 awardees selected
• Total SIP awards: $28,096.35
• Leveraged private investment: $34,345.63
• Combined investment: $62,441.98

Application Process

Timeline:

• Applications reviewed once per year
• Current cycle: Applications closed (deadline was December 8, 2023)
• Next cycle: 2025 applications to be announced

Required Materials:

• Complete SIP Application Packet (available for download)
• Project details and specifications
• Business location documentation
• Proof of eligibility within Downtown area boundaries

Application Format:

• Designed to be simple to complete
• Discretionary reimbursement grant application
• Pre-approval required before project work begins

Next Steps:

1. Contact SIP program administrator for information
2. Download complete SIP Application Packet
3. Submit application by announced deadline (5 pm on application closing date)
4. Application Review Committee evaluates submissions
5. Awardees determined and notified mid-cycle
6. Receive Commitment Letter before beginning work
7. Complete pre-approved project
8. Submit for reimbursement upon completion

Contact for Questions: KEDC (kodiakedc.com)