Ravenswood Façade Rebate Program

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The Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce and SSA 31’s Ravenswood Façade Rebate Program encourages local small businesses and property owners to improve the physical appearance of their storefronts

By providing businesses and property owners financial assistance, these programs improve the appearances of the neighborhood buildings, resulting in increased attractiveness, business retention and marketability.

Before and after the Ravenswood Façade Rebate Program — Before and After

Program Details

The Ravenswood Façade Rebate Program assists local small businesses and property owners who seek to improve the physical appearance of their storefronts. In doing so, the program strengthens Ravenswood’s standing as a commercial destination for shoppers from across the city. This funding incentives business owners looking to upgrade, preserve, or restore their storefronts while also aiding those who would not otherwise be able to complete aesthetically beneficial projects.

Eligibility

Businesses interested in the Facade Rebate Program must be within the boundaries of Special Service Area 31. Eligible projects can receive a rebate of up to 50% of the total cost, with a maximum rebate of $5,000.

Application Process & Requirements

To apply for the Façade Rebate Program, you must complete the application form. Once completed, the application is reviewed by the SSA Commission. If the application has been approved, you will be notified with an approval letter. Construction should be complete within 180 days of the issuance of the permit. After the project is complete, you must notify the SSA of its completion. We will then issue you the rebate!

Please Note:

Applications for the program are considered in the order they are received until all available funds have been distributed for that fiscal year.
Prior to beginning construction, you must receive an approval letter from the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. If you begin work on the project without written approval, you will not be eligible for the program.
Rebates are given only after all work has been approved, completed and paid for, and all documentation has been received by the Greater Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce.
All proposed improvements must meet the design guidelines set forth in facade rebate program document and are subject to review and approval by the SSA #31’s commission.

Download the Façade Rebate Program application (PDF).

Application Prep-List

A completed application form, including the Summary of Costs Estimates and signed statement of understanding
$50 non-refundable application fee (credit card, check, or money order)
Photographs of the existing building and the proposed project area
Detailed plans and specifications for the proposed project
Detailed cost estimates from at least three contractors for each improvement task
Owner’s deed and tenant’s lease, if applicable
Current lien report policy showing the property is free of liens (except mortgage liens)
Certificate of Good Standings from the state of Illinois
Any applicable permits form the city
Written consent from and contact information for the property owner, if the applicant is not the owner.