About this programme
The Storefront Repair Fund is part of the Seattle Office of Economic Development's Back to Business program. It reimburses Seattle business owners for the cost of repairing property damage to their storefronts, such as broken doors, locks, fences, gates, signs, or windows.
The fund has distributed $1.4 million in federal funds and helped about 700 local businesses recover from storefront damage. Applications are open through December 2026 or until funds run out.
How it works
The program reimburses up to $5,000 per damage incident, with a maximum of three incidents covered per calendar year per business.
It operates on a reimbursement model: you must have already paid for the repair before applying. The damage must have happened on or after July 1, 2024 to qualify.
Covered damage includes doors, locks, fences, gates, signs, and broken or etched windows. Graffiti, theft losses, and preventive security measures are not covered.
Grants are not taxable income and do not need to be repaid.
Who can apply
The business must hold an active Seattle City Business License, be located within Seattle city limits, and be independently owned or an independently-owned franchise, with a maximum of 5 locations and 50 full-time equivalent employees.
Both for-profit and nonprofit businesses (501(c)(3), (c)(6), or (c)(9)) can apply, with annual net revenue between $1,000 and $7 million.
Adult entertainment businesses, short- or long-term rentals or investment properties, taxi, rideshare, or food delivery services are not eligible. Landlords and property owners cannot apply, though their tenants can.
How to apply
- Gather your Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number, City Business License number, an itemized invoice, evidence of payment, and your Seattle Police Department Incident Number (photos of the damage are optional).
- Submit the application online at https://forms.fillout.com/t/4XZ7yuZMMDus.
- Wait for review, which can take up to four weeks for a complete application, then receive your reimbursement check by mail at the address on your W-9.
Documents you’ll typically need
- Unified Business Identifier (UBI) number
- City Business License number
- Itemized invoice for the repair
- Evidence of payment
- Seattle Police Department Incident Number
- Photos of the damage (optional)
- W-9 (for mailing the reimbursement check)
Frequently asked
Is this a grant I get in advance, or a reimbursement?
It is a reimbursement. The Back to Business Program requires you to have already paid for the repairs before applying.
Are Storefront Repair Fund grants taxable?
No, the grants are not taxable income.
Do I have to pay the money back?
No, this is a grant. Businesses are not required to repay it.
Does the fund cover graffiti or theft?
No. It covers damage such as doors, locks, fences, gates, signs, and broken or etched windows, but explicitly excludes graffiti, theft losses, and preventive security measures.
How much can I get reimbursed?
Up to $5,000 per incident, with a maximum of three incidents covered per calendar year.
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Reviewed 2026-09-25. Programmes change, so check eligibility, amounts and deadlines on the official page before you apply. CapEasy is a private firm and is not part of any government body.