Applications are now closed for the Restore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program.

2025 ReStore Awardees

We have announced the 2025 ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program Awardees.

Check out more info on the winning projects.

Program Description

The ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program, funded by the Reno Redevelopment Agency, is designed to stimulate economic development and revitalize downtown and surrounding districts within Redevelopment Areas 1 and 2.

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. 

• ReStore Program Summary
• Frequently Asked Questions

Funding and Reimbursement

To encourage investment and improvements to vacant and underutilized storefronts, the Reno Redevelopment Agency will reimburse awardees for 50% of their eligible costs up to $50,000 for exterior facade improvements and $50,000 for interior tenant improvements. Matching funds for facade 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. 

A single building, parcel, or owner with multiple storefronts may not exceed $200,000 in cumulative awards across all projects. 

Eligible Businesses & Improvements

To qualify for the ReStore Facade and Tenant Improvement Program, properties must be located within the official boundaries of Redevelopment Area 1 or Redevelopment Area 2. The applicant may be either the property owner or a tenant with a valid lease - provided both parties submit written acknowledgement and consent. 

Eligible Properties and Uses

• 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

• New development or newly constructed spaces (grey shell or white box). However, and 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

• Exterior signage and awnings 
• Exterior facade paint
• 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
• 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

• 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)

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted through the online application portal via Submittable

• Applications are now closed.

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

Funding is based on budget availability and applications will be considered on a "first come, first served" basis. 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. 

Applying does not guarantee funding. 

Applications Must Include

• Completed application form
• Photos of the current facade 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 at the tenant’s request)
• Signed letter by both owner and tenant outlining costs, responsibilities, and grant reimbursement
• Optional – Support letters from neighboring businesses, property owners, and district leadership

Evaluation Criteria

Applications will be reviewed and scored based on a combination of need, community impact, readiness, and alignment with program goals.

Specific Scoring Criteria

• Impact on the surrounding neighborhood
• Location in high-priority or high-traffic areas
• 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 efforts

Award Terms & Conditions

Approved applicants will enter into an Award Agreement with the City of Reno Redevelopment Agency.

The following terms apply:

• All work must be permitted per City of Reno building codes 
• Projects must obtain required permits within 90 days of agreement execution
• Projects must be completed within 180 days of permit issuance, unless an alternative completion deadline is approved and incorporated into the final agreement.
• 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
• Applicants must agree to maintain the improvements for a minimum of five (5) years from the date of completion
• Storefronts shall be actively marketed for lease at reasonable rates for 5 years following completion if the space becomes vacant

Failure to complete the project within the time required will result in the agreement being terminated and 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. 

Program Support & FAQ

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

The Nevada Small Business Development Center provides free one-on-one business advising and planning support. New entrepreneurs and established business 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 via this referral link.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule a pre-application meeting, please send an email to redevelopment@reno.gov