2026 Arts & Culture Event Grants

SUMMARY:

The City of Reno Arts & Culture Event Grants are awarded to nonprofit arts and culture and non-arts organizations for one-time arts & culture events. The events must be within the Reno city limits. All events must be free and open to the public. Events should be designed to attract the maximum number of people, appropriate for the event and site. Funds may be used to support community festivals, special performances, exhibitions, concerts, and other events. The funding is to support a one-time event, including weekend festivals or events that take place over the course of one week. Recurring events over a longer period do not qualify as one-time events.

Allowable event costs include personnel, artistic and production fees, space rental, travel, marketing and advertising, and other event-related expenses. Event Grants may not be used for the following: capital improvements, acquisition of equipment or property, projects which further the aims of religious organizations, fundraising, prizes, projects which involve touring outside of Reno, indirect costs, general operating costs, and scholarships or research stipends.

This is a reimbursement grant. Grant funds are not dispersed until final reporting is complete.

A competitive application will demonstrate social impact beyond a traditional audience experience, as well as a plan to reach diverse and underserved populations in the following ways:

  • The event engages participants through a variety of means.
  • Event times, locations, facilities, and technology are accessible to the public.
  • The organization understands the community it serves (geographical, cultural, economic, racial, educational relevance, etc.).
  • The organization collects participant feedback and uses the results to improve community-focused programming.
  • The event demonstrates social, educational, cultural, and/or economic relevance for the community.
  • The event contributes to vibrant, creative neighborhoods.

ELIGIBILITY:

  • Non-profit organizations or public institutions under Chapter 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code or qualified educational institutions. Grants will not be awarded to individuals.
  • Applicants may apply for a City of Reno Project Grant as well but may only be considered for one grant depending on the amount of funding requests. Project Grant programming must be different than a grant request for an Event Grant.
  • Non-profit organizations or public institutions can only apply for one Event Grant.
  • Non-profit organizations and public institutions must have their official business address located in Reno or a surrounding neighbor community such as Sparks, Incline Village, or Truckee.
  • Applicants must be able to show that they have been in operation with active programming for at least one year.
  • The event must be free and open to the public. 
  • The event must take place in the City of Reno boundaries.
  • The event is a unique one-time event over a single day, weekend, or week.  
  • A 10% cash match of requested funds must be reflected in the event grant budget.
     

Event Grant applications will be evaluated based on the following:
1.The Event: All answers in this section address artistic and cultural merit of the event.

  • The organization clearly describes the unique artistic components, genres, and/or creative elements of the project (event/project is clear).
  • The organization clearly describes goals & outcomes of the project.
  • The organization engages artists and program leaders who have applicable experience and cultural knowledge.
  • The project/program aligns with the organization’s overall mission.

2. The Community: Questions in this section describe the organization’s ability to identify and engage the target audience or community.

  • The organization understands the community it serves (geographical, cultural, economic, racial, educational relevance, etc.) and demonstrates a plan for recruiting participants from target audience and historically underserved groups.
  • The organization innovatively addresses an artistic/cultural need.
  • The organization collects participant feedback and uses the results to improve community-focused programming.

3. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Access (IDEA): This section seeks to understand how your organization works to identify and address issues related to IDEA through your proposed event.

  • The proposal demonstrates social, educational cultural and/or economic relevance for the community.
  • The organization demonstrates an effort to understand and eliminate barriers to participation, and to increase access for historically underserved communities.
  • The organization has a plan to meet the physical accessibility requirement.
  • The organization has a plan to meet the programmatic accessibility requirement.

4. Budget: This section will address the specific and total budget for the event or project, which includes matching and other funds outside of this grant.

  • The financial plan is appropriate for the size and scope of the project or programs.
  • The budget reflects realistic costs and evidence of artists being paid.
  • The budget shows a 10% cash match by the organization. 

 FUNDING:        
         $7,000 maximum (10% cash match)
 

TIMELINE: Event grants must take place from January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026.

DEADLINE: APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED by 11:00 p.m. PT on Monday, September 30, 2025. 

FINAL REPORTING: 

Grant funds will not be dispersed until final reporting is complete. Organizations must submit a final budget for the project to show total expenses and revenues and demonstrate that the match was met. They must also fill out a final report that includes whether the project/event met the anticipated goals, outline the total number of personnel that worked on the project/event, the total number of volunteers on the project/event, an example from the project/event that strengthens the case for increased funding in the arts, and three photographs from the project. 

There is an audience survey component that is required. Forms will be supplied to organizations for audience surveys. This survey gathers important data for the City of Reno to ensure equitable funding and assess and identify areas for improvement. The questions provided by the City of Reno must be used, however, organizations can add them to any other survey questions or data they collect. If this component is not met, funding will not be released. Final reports are due 45 days after the event has been completed.

QUESTIONS & ASSISTANCE: Please reach out to Erica Hill at HillE@reno.gov if you have any questions. *If you would like assistance in Spanish, please contact staff at (775) 326-6333. *Si desea asistencia en español o para asistir a un taller de becas en español, comuníquese con el personal al (775) 326-6333.

2026 Arts & Culture Project Grants
 

SUMMARY:
City of Reno Arts & Culture Project Grants challenge arts and culture nonprofits to serve Reno's historically underserved populations with arts and culture programming and to seek innovative partnerships. The grant application asks organizations to demonstrate social impact beyond a traditional audience experience as well as a plan to reach diverse and historically underserved populations.

Project Grants may not be used for the following: capital improvements or acquisition of equipment or property, projects which further the aims of religious organizations, fundraising, prizes, projects which involve touring outside of Reno, indirect costs, general operating costs, and scholarships or research stipends.

Awards support projects that engage at least one of Reno's historically underserved populations in creative programming or artmaking. Historically underserved populations may include one or more of the following: seniors, ALAANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab and Native American), people with disabilities, new Americans, low-income, veterans, youth, and LGBTQIA+. Projects seeking grant funding will encourage participation in the visual arts, craft, media, music, theater, dance, folk, history or literary arts through events, performances, exhibits, classes/workshops, and other arts programs. Expenses that qualify for funding include artist fees, public performance and exhibition costs, project-related promotion and marketing, art consultants, guest teaching artist fees, materials, and supplies, and facilities rentals outside of arts organizations main offices. Applicants can receive up to fifty percent of eligible program costs, not to exceed $7,000. Requires a 1:1 cash match. 

This is a reimbursement grant. Grant funds are not dispersed until final reporting is complete. 

 A competitive application will demonstrate social impact beyond a traditional audience experience as well as a plan to reach diverse and underserved populations in the following ways:

  • The project engages participants through a variety of means.
  • Project times, locations, facilities, and technology are accessible to the public.
  • The organization understands the community it serves (geographical, cultural, economic, racial, educational relevance, etc.).
  • The organization utilizes partnerships to effectively serve specific communities
  • The organization collects participant feedback and uses the results to improve community-focused programming.
  • The project demonstrates social, educational, cultural, and/or economic relevance for the community.
  • The project contributes to vibrant, creative neighborhoods.

ELIGIBILITY: 

  • Non-profit organizations or public institutions under Chapter 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code or qualified educational institutions. Grants will not be awarded to individuals. 
  • Applicants may apply for a City of Reno Event Grant as well but may only be considered for one grant depending on the amount of funding requests. Event Grant programming must be different from a grant request for a Project Grant. 
  • Non-profit organizations or public institutions can only apply for one Project Grant.
  • Non-profit organizations and public institutions must have their official business address located in Reno or a surrounding neighbor community such as Sparks, Incline Village, or Truckee. 
  • Applicants must be able to show that they have been in operation with active programming for at least one year. 
  • The project must take place within the City of Reno city boundaries. 
  • A 1:1 cash match of requested funds must be reflected in the project grant budget. 


Project grant applications will be evaluated based on the following:

1. The Project: All answers in this section address artistic and cultural merit of the project.

  • The organization clearly describes the unique artistic components, genres, and/or creative elements of the project (event/project is clear).
  • The organization clearly describes goals & outcomes of the project.
  • The organization engages artists and program leaders who have applicable experience and cultural knowledge.
  • The project/program aligns with the organization’s overall mission.

2. The Community: Questions in this section describe the organization’s ability to identify and engage the target audience or community.

  • The organization understands the community it serves (geographical, cultural, economic, racial, educational relevance, etc.) and demonstrates a plan for recruiting participants from target audience and historically underserved groups.
  • The organization innovatively addresses an artistic/cultural need.
  • The organization collects participant feedback and uses the results to improve community-focused programming.

3. Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Access (IDEA): This section seeks to understand how your organization works to identify and address issues related to IDEA through your proposed event. 

  • The proposal demonstrates social, educational cultural and/or economic relevance for the community.
  • The organization demonstrates an effort to understand and eliminate barriers to participation, and to increase access for historically underserved communities.
  • The organization has a plan to meet the physical accessibility requirement.
  • The organization has a plan to meet the programmatic accessibility requirement.
     

4. Budget: This section will address the specific and total budget for the event or project, which includes matching and other funds outside of this grant. 

  • The financial plan is appropriate for the size and scope of the project or programs. 
  • The budget reflects realistic costs and evidence of artists being paid.
  • The budget shows a 1:1 cash match by the organization.
     

FUNDING:        
       $7,000 maximum (1:1 cash match)
 

TIMELINE:        
       Project grants must take place from January 1, 2026 and December 31, 2026.


DEADLINE:
    APPLICATIONS MUST BE RECEIVED by 11:00 p.m. PT on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

FINAL REPORTING:
Grant funds will not be dispersed until final reporting is complete. Organizations must submit a final budget for the project to show total expenses and revenues and demonstrate that the match was met. They must also fill out a final report that includes whether the project/event met the anticipated goals, outline the total number of personnel that worked on the project/event, the total number of volunteers on the project/event, an example from the project/event that strengthens the case for increased funding in the arts, and three photographs from the project. 

There is an audience survey component that is required. Forms will be supplied to organizations for audience surveys. This survey gathers important data for the City of Reno to ensure equitable funding and assess and identify areas for improvement. The questions provided by the City of Reno must be used, however, organizations can add them to any other survey questions or data they collect. If this component is not met, funding will not be released. Final reports are due 45 days after the project has been completed.

    QUESTIONS & ASSISTANCE: Please reach out to Erica Hill at HillE@reno.gov if you have any questions. 

*If you would like assistance in Spanish, please contact staff at (775) 326-6333. *Si desea asistencia en español o para asistir a un taller de becas en español, comuníquese con el personal al (775) 326-6333.

Equity Expansion Grant Cycle 3

Period of Support: October 1 - December 31, 2025

Application due September 7, 2025 at 11:00PM PST

SUMMARY: 

The Equity Expansion Grant is intended to provide programmatic funding to eligible organizations that expand equity through arts, culture, or heritage programs, services, or projects. The project/activity must be free and open to the public. The project/activity must utilize arts and culture to elevate and amplify cultural diversity. The grant prioritizes organizations historically facing social, financial, and/or geographic barriers. The grant prioritizes projects and activities that are by and for American Indian and Alaska Native, Arab and Middle Eastern, Asian and Pacific Islander, Black and African American, Hispanic and Latinx, LGBTQIA+, disabled, seniors, and access-challenged communities.  

La subvención de expansión de equidad (Equity Expansion Grant) tiene como objetivo proporcionar financiación programática a organizaciones elegibles que brinden servicios de arte, cultura y patrimonio. La subvención prioriza a las organizaciones que históricamente han enfrentado barreras sociales, financieras y/o geográficas. La subvención prioriza proyectos y actividades realizados por y para personas indígenas y nativos de Alaska, árabes y del Medio Oriente, asiáticos e isleños del Pacífico, comunidades con orígenes africanos y afroamericanos, hispanos y latinos, LGBTQIA+, con capacidades especiales, adultos mayores y comunidades con desafíos de acceso. Si desea asistencia o más información en español, comuníquese con el personal al bernerm@reno.gov.  

Grant Amount

  • Up to $4,000 

Applicant Eligibility

  • Applicants must be 501(c)3 organizations based in Reno. This includes colleges, universities, public schools, libraries, and federally recognized tribes.
  • Organizations that do not have 501(c)3 status may use a fiscal sponsor. Organizations are eligible to apply for and receive funding through a fiscal sponsor for a limit of 3 years.
  • The applicant organization must have at least one year of operating history in Reno.
  • Organizations cannot apply for multiple Arts & Culture Grants for the same project. Each application must be distinctly unique. For example, if you are applying for an Arts & Culture Project Grant, your application for an Equity Expansion Grant must be for a different project with no overlap.
  • Projects and programs must be free and open to the public. 
  • Projects and programs must take place within the City of Reno boundaries. Projects taking place outside of the City of Reno are ineligible.  
  • City of Reno map 

Funding may be used for:

  • Education Programming (including demonstrations, lectures, and workshops)
  • Entertainment Programming (including performances, events, festivals, and traditions)
  • Public Art Programming (including exhibitions, materials, and artist fees) 

Funding may not be used for:

  • Hospitality Expenses (including food, beverages)
  • Operating Expenses (including staff salary, rent, office equipment, or repairs)
  • Competition Expenses (including scholarships, prizes, or grants)
  • Activities with implicit religious content 

Requirements 

  • Programming must be advertised, free, and accessible to the public.
  • Programming must support and benefit underserved communities.
  • Proposed project must expand equity through arts, culture, or heritage.  
  • The project/activity must utilize arts and culture to elevate and amplify cultural diversity. 
  • Programming must occur within the City of Reno between January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
  • Applicants will be responsible for securing any appropriate public exhibition space and any permission or permits required regarding their proposal. 

Submission

  • Applicants must submit applications via Submittable according to the following deadlines: 
  • Deadline to apply for programming taking place between October 1 - December 31, 2025 is September 7, 2025. 

Please note, organizations are only eligible to receive one Equity Expansion Grant per calendar year. If you apply and are denied, you can apply for a future date. 

  • Awardees will be required to submit a final report that includes a narrative of activities carried out, attendance/participation numbers, number of artists paid, and images of the activities carried out. The City of Reno also requires audience/participant surveys to be completed. Survey questions will be provided by the City upon award of grants. 

Questions: Christian Davies Arts + Culture Program Assistant, daviesc@reno.gov

If you would like assistance in Spanish, please contact staff at bernerm@reno.gov.*

*Si desea asistencia en español, comuníquese con el personal al bernerm@reno.gov.

Program Overview:

The ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program, funded through the Reno Redevelopment Agency (RDA), is designed to stimulate economic development and revitalize downtown and surrounding districts within designated Redevelopment Areas 1 and 2 (Area Map). This matching reimbursement program supports eligible property owners and tenants in improving and activating vacant or underutilized commercial storefronts, restoring historically significant facades, and launching or expanding public-facing businesses that contribute to a diverse and thriving downtown and neighboring districts.

To encourage investment and improvements to vacant and underutilized storefronts, the Reno Redevelopment Agency will reimburse applicants 50% of the eligible costs up to a maximum award of $50,000 for exterior façade improvements, and up to $50,000 for interior tenant improvement projects. Matching funds for façade and tenant improvements can be combined up to a total of no more than $99,999 in reimbursement per storefront. Projects that are on the National Register of Historic Places or the Nevada State Register of Historic Places are eligible for a $25,000 bonus. 

This program supports the goals of the Reno Redevelopment Agency, including: 

  • Attracting and retaining a mix of neighborhood-serving and destination retail and services
  • Enhancing walkability and improving the visual character of priority corridors
  • Activating vacant storefronts to reduce blight and encouraging pedestrian activity
  • Promoting adaptive reuse and historic preservation
  • Reducing barriers to entry for emerging entrepreneurs and small businesses


A. Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify, properties must be located within the official boundaries of Redevelopment Area 1 or Area 2 (Area Map). The applicant may be either a property owner or a tenant with a valid lease or intent to lease, provided both parties submit written acknowledgement and consent.

Eligible commercial uses include:

  • Retail shops
  • Food and beverage establishments (cafes, restaurants, and bars) 
  • Personal and professional services (barber shops, salons, studios)
  • Fitness and wellness facilities
  • Experiential concepts and creative spaces (art, coworking, games)

Ineligible properties and uses include:

  • New development or newly constructed ground up spaces (grey shell or white box) are ineligible. However, a tenant may apply for improvements that go beyond the standard landlord delivered finishes
  • Businesses selling primarily tobacco or marijuana, packaged alcohol, firearms, or adult-themed content

Eligible improvements include:

  • Exterior signage and awnings
  • Exterior façade painting
  • Architectural enhancements and materials
  • Windows and doors
  • Lighting improvements for safety and ambiance
  • Landscaping enhancements within the façade area
  • Outdoor seating and dining areas
  • Accessibility upgrades to comply with ADA requirements
  • Preservation and restoration of historical façade elements
  • Other improvements that enhance the visual appeal and contribute to the vitality of the area
  • Architectural and design services (Not to exceed 10% of project costs)
  • Interior design and space planning (Not to exceed 10% of project costs)
  • Structural modifications including walls, ceilings and flooring
  • Hazardous Material Removal and Remediation
  • Plumbing, electrical and HVAC upgrades
  • Sewer, grease interceptor and backflow preventer upgrades
  • Bathroom installation and expansion
  • Lighting improvements for energy efficiency and ambiance
  • Installation of permanent fixtures, cabinetry and shelving
  • Soundproofing and insulation
  • Safety and security enhancements
  • Other improvements that contribute to functionality, aesthetics and customer experience

Ineligible improvements include: 

  • White shell or grey box level of completion of commercial spaces in new developments or new construction
  • Deferred general maintenance or addressing code violations
  • Rent and common area maintenance (CAM) costs
  • Non-fixed equipment and inventory
  • Interior decorations
  • Security, audio/visual, and point of sale equipment 
  • Kitchen equipment
  • Roof repair and replacement
  • Broader building improvements above and beyond the storefront area (2nd floor and above) 


 

B. Program Funding Structure:

The ReStore Program offers 50% matching reimbursement grants for eligible projects:

  • Up to $50,000 for facade improvements
  • Up to $50,000 for tenant interior improvements
  • Total potential award: $99,999 per storefront space
  • Projects that are on the National Register of Historic Places or the Nevada State Register of Historic Places are eligible for a $25,000 bonus match
  • A single building, parcel, or owner with multiple storefronts may not exceed $200,000 in cumulative awards across all projects

Please Note: This is a reimbursement-based grant. All project costs must be incurred and paid upfront by the applicant. Funds will be reimbursed upon verified project completion and certificate of occupancy (where applicable).

Funding is based on budget availability and applications will be considered on a “first come, first served basis.” Applying does not guarantee funding. Projects will be reviewed on a competitive basis, taking into consideration the quality of the proposed improvements, exceptional design, impact on the streetscape, and potential economic benefits. 

All work must be permitted per City of Reno building codes. A building permit shall be submitted within 90 days of the approved program agreement. Work shall be completed within 180 days of an approved building permit, unless an alternative completion deadline is approved and incorporated into the final agreement. Extensions may be granted based on the discretion of the Reno Redevelopment Agency Executive Director. 

Failure to complete the project within the time required will result in the agreement being terminated and reimbursement funding will not be provided. 

Any work intruding within the public right-of-way, such as awnings, signage and building facades, will also require approval and additional permitting through the Public Works Department. 

Applicants must agree to maintain the improvements for a minimum of 5 years from the date of completion. Storefronts shall be actively marketed for lease at reasonable lease rates for 5 years following completion if the space becomes vacant.


 

C. Application Process:

All applicants are strongly encouraged to schedule a pre-application meeting with the Reno Redevelopment Agency staff to review project concepts, eligibility, and design considerations before submitting a full application.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis while funds remain available. Applications will be reviewed for completeness and compliance with the program criteria. A three-week grace period will be offered to return missing or requested documentation if the application is under consideration. 

Applications must include:

  • Completed application form
  • Photos of the current façade and interior
  • Detailed project description, scope of improvements, and current condition
  • Renderings or sketches of the finished façade and interior space (if available) 
  • Summary of the business activities or a business plan detailing the total operating budget and financial      capacity to complete improvements, support operations, and market the business
  • Lease terms, rent per square foot, TI allowances, and duration
  • Construction documents, architectural drawings, and itemized budget
  • At least three (3) contractor estimates for any project over $10,000 (The redevelopment agency executive      director reserves the right to allow for two qualified bids)
  • Signed letter by both owner and tenant outlining costs, responsibilities, and grant reimbursement
  • Optional – Support letters from neighboring businesses, property owners, and district leadership


 

D. Evaluation Criteria:

Applications will be reviewed and scored based on a combination of need, impact, readiness, and alignment with program goals. Specific scoring criteria include:

  • Impact on the surrounding neighborhood
  • Location in high-priority or high-traffic area
  • Level of vacancy, blight or disrepair being addressed
  • Quality design and comprehensiveness of the proposed improvements
  • Reasonable costs and contractor bids
  • Diversity of business offerings and contribution to neighborhood vibrancy
  • Historic preservation or restoration elements (bonus points)


 

E. Award Terms and Conditions:

Approved applicants will enter into a Grant Agreement with the City of Reno Redevelopment Agency. The following terms apply:

  • Projects must obtain required permits within 90 days of agreement execution
  • Projects must be completed within 180 days of permit issuance. If a Certificate of Occupancy is required for      a business, it must be obtained before reimbursement. 
  • Any substantial deviation from the approved scope may result in revocation of the award
  • Work must be properly permitted and compliant with all applicable codes
  • Businesses must not have active complaints, code violations, or unresolved licensing issues


 

F. Reimbursement & Completion Requirements:

Upon completion of the improvements, applicants must submit a formal Notice of Completion along with the following to receive reimbursement:

  1. Photographs of completed work
  2. Invoices, receipts, and proof of payment (bank statements, cleared checks)
  3. Statement of work performed, and total cost incurred
  4. Final invoice to City for reimbursement (50% of approved cost, not to exceed award)
  5. Visual inspection by Reno Redevelopment Agency staff
  6. Certificate of Occupancy 

Reimbursements will only be issued after successful review and verification of all completion materials.


 

G. Reno Redevelopment Agency Information:

The Reno Redevelopment Agency was established in 1983 in response to urban decline and shifting economic patterns. As Reno’s population grew in the late 20th century, suburban expansion led to the deterioration of key projects, land parcels, and buildings in the downtown core. To counter this, the City of Reno created the Agency and established Redevelopment Area 1 (RDA 1), supporting major projects such as the National Bowling Stadium, the Truckee Riverwalk, and Greater Nevada Field. In 2005, Redevelopment Area 2 (RDA 2) was established. 

The Great Recession led to a decline in property values and tax revenues, causing the Agency to go dormant. In recent years, economic recovery and population growth have driven private investment in the urban core, leading to new developments and increased property values. With tax revenues now surpassing the thresholds set at the inception of RDA 1 and RDA 2, the Agency is once again positioned to drive economic progress and foster optimal land use in downtown and surrounding urban areas.

Together, we are restoring Reno—one storefront at a time.

Additional information on the City of Reno Redevelopment Agency and the ReStore Façade and Tenant Improvement Program can be found at https://www.reno.gov/government/departments/economic-development-redevelopment-agency 

Or contact:
    Bryan McArdle, Revitalization Manager
    City of Reno Redevelopment Agency
mcardleb@reno.gov | 775-447-3206


 

H. Frequently Asked Questions: 

1.  I’m a new or emerging business. Where can I go for help preparing my application or business plan?

The Nevada Small Business Development Center (NevadaSBDC.org) provides free one-on-one business advising and planning support. New entrepreneurs and established businesses are strongly encouraged to connect with Nevada SBDC advisors who can assist with business plan development, financial readiness, market analysis, and overall project preparation. Interested applicants can request support directly using this referral link: https://nsbdc.ecenterdirect.com//signup?centerid=0&reffrom=CR


 

2. I am a tenant. Do I need the property owner's approval to apply for the program?

Yes, if you are a tenant applying for the program, you will need to provide a letter signed by both the applicant and property owner. The property owner's consent is necessary to ensure that both parties are aligned on the improvements being made to the property and the distribution of reimbursement funds.


 

3. I am a property owner. Do I need to work with my tenant?

Yes, property owners are required to collaborate with their tenants and obtain their consent for the proposed improvements. This program encourages cooperation between property owners and tenants to enhance the storefronts and overall commercial spaces. Mutual agreement is an essential part of the application process.


 

4. I only want to replace my signage or install new lighting. Can I still apply?

Yes. While all eligible projects are evaluated on their merits, smaller award requests may increase your chances of being selected, especially when funding is limited. We welcome small-scale, high-impact improvements like signage, lighting, landscaping, and exterior paint. These types of projects are often more feasible, quicker to implement, and can significantly enhance the look and feel of a business. Small, tactical upgrades that improve the pedestrian experience are highly encouraged.
 

5. How much reporting am I required to do?

The reporting requirements for the program are designed to be straightforward. While specific details will be outlined in the award agreement, participants are generally expected to provide project updates, documentation of expenses, and completion reports. The Reno Redevelopment Agency aims to streamline the reporting process to minimize administrative burden.


 

6. Do I get to choose my design consultant and the contractor for construction?

Yes, you have the flexibility to choose your design consultant and contractor for the project. It's important to work with professionals who are experienced and capable of delivering the desired improvements. The design and contractor selection should align with the project's goals and meet all necessary permitting and code requirements.


 

7. Are the improvements required to meet prevailing wage?

No, the improvements under this program are not required to meet prevailing wage requirements unless the award exceeds $100,000. However, participants are encouraged to adhere to fair labor practices and work with reputable contractors.


 

8. How long will funds be available?

Funds for the ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability and funding allocated to the program. It's recommended to submit your application promptly to secure your place in the program.


 

9. I have multiple storefronts. How many projects can I apply for?

Property owners with multiple storefronts are eligible to apply as a separate project for each storefront. Each project will be evaluated independently, and approval will be based on the merits of each application. However, a single building, parcel, or owner with multiple storefronts may not exceed $200,000 in cumulative awards across all projects


 

10. Will there be a legal agreement with the application?

Yes, if your project is selected for funding, an award agreement will be established between the Reno Redevelopment Agency and the award recipient. This agreement will outline the terms, conditions, and responsibilities related to the funding, project implementation, reporting, and maintenance of improvements.
 

City of Reno