The Commercial Tenant Improvement Program is designed to support and empower local business owners, which is essential for creating vibrant communities and fostering a healthy regional economy.
In 2023, the City of Cincinnati established CTIP to help reduce the barriers small businesses face when securing commercial space and to mitigate some of the risks they assume.
Grants of up to $20,000 are available for tenant improvements to small businesses that are relocating to Cincinnati, opening a new location, or expanding within the city.
The program funds both interior and exterior repairs, upgrades, and improvements that typically remain with the property. Eligible improvements include lighting fixtures, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, HVAC work, carpeting or flooring, painting, drywall, windows, doors, and signage.
Other covered improvements include green initiatives, permanent fixtures, interior demolition and renovation, and remediation of environmental contamination like lead paint, mold, or asbestos.
Additionally, the grant can be used for security system installation, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, furniture, fixtures, and equipment with a useful life of at least five years, and architectural or engineering costs related to interior work (up to 10% of the total grant).
Small business owners with 50 or fewer employees are eligible to apply if they are relocating to Cincinnati, opening a new business location, or expanding an existing one within the city.
For more information, visit City of Cincinnati.
