For many small businesses, the storefront is the first impression customers have. Now, the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) is helping local business owners make that first impression count. Through its new BIG Lift Program, BCIC is expanding on the success of its Downtown BIG initiative by offering financial assistance to eligible small businesses throughout Brownsville for exterior improvements that can attract customers and enhance accessibility. The program provides grants of up to $30,000 to help business owners invest in upgrades that improve the appearance and functionality of their properties.
"It is for parking lots, restriping, ADA accessibility, storefront improvements in terms of lighting, security, door, window, and awning replacement, as well as signage," said Eric Quintero, BCIC Director of Community Development. "It's an attempt to bring more traffic for our small business communities, as well as make it more accessible for community members to attend." Eligible improvements include parking lot repairs and restriping, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility enhancements, exterior lighting, security upgrades, replacement of doors, windows and awnings, and new or improved business signage.
To qualify, businesses must be located within the Brownsville city limits, be locally owned and independently operated, employ fewer than 20 people, and have been in operation for at least two years. BCIC officials say the program is designed to invest in businesses that have already established themselves as part of the Brownsville community while helping them remain competitive in a growing local economy. "We want to work with these businesses that have been here for years, have been serving the community with either amazing food or amazing retail opportunities," Quintero said.
"It is a way to really just drive that traffic into them." As a pilot initiative, the BIG Lift Program will also help BCIC better understand the needs of Brownsville's small business community. Feedback from participating business owners will be used to evaluate the program's impact and guide future improvements. By investing in storefront enhancements and accessibility, BCIC hopes the program will strengthen neighborhood commercial corridors, increase customer traffic, and support the continued success of locally owned businesses that contribute to Brownsville's economy and character.
Source: City of Brownsville
