Apply for the Tenant Improvement Program!

We’re excited to share that small businesses looking for financial support to upgrade their spaces can now apply for the Tenant Improvement Program. We have two packages to help cover the cost of replacing essential items available in 2026: the sign package award of up to $15,000 and the equipment package award of up to $50,000. Applications are due by Monday, April 13, 2026, at 5 p.m. Please review the full eligibility requirements on our website before applying. The TI Program supports established Seattle businesses with upgrades to help stabilize and grow their business. To date, we've supported 120 businesses with projects such as brighter or bigger external signage, new sewing equipment, live seafood tanks, upgrading commercial equipment, and more. For more ideas about projects that may qualify, check out our recent TI Program blog. Apply here

Beto Yarce begins as acting director for OED

Mayor Katie B. Wilson appointed Beto Yarce as the next director of our department. Beto began his new post on March 4. He brings extensive experience as a business executive, entrepreneur, and nonprofit leader dedicated to advancing economic equity and entrepreneurship. Fluent in English and Spanish, he has over 15 years of experience driving growth and impact across the business, nonprofit, and public sectors. “I could not be more excited about the talent and expertise of the people who have stepped up to lead city departments, and I know that together, this team will be able to accomplish extraordinary things,” said Mayor Wilson. “I look forward to working with Beto Yarce at the Office of Economic Development.” Beto is excited to hit the ground running, focusing on listening, learning, and building strong relationships with departments, community partners, and the business ecosystem. Check out the full press release to hear what others are saying about Beto’s appointment.

🍷 ABC Program helps WeRise Wines launch 🍇

WeRise Wines brings people together in Belltown to build connections, one glass at a time. With support from our Accounting and Business Consulting Program, founder and owner Jamila Conley opened her wine bar with the goal to provide a welcoming space while highlighting wines made by people of color, women, queer, and other underrepresented winemakers. She used various consultants in business development, accounting, and marketing that helped her navigate the process to open WeRise Wines. Read Jamila's WeRise Wines story highlighting her journey. Applications for our ABC program are officially open! Review the list of services available and apply on our website.

City and State opportunities and resources

⚽️ Planning an event during the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup

Want to host your own Men’s World Cup watch party or event? Depending on the size, location, and what you’re planning, you might need permission from the City of Seattle, FIFA, or both. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to plan and permit your event.

Our Special Events Office is your first stop and will help you navigate the process. Visit our permitting during the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup page for details including types of activities, timeline expectations, and related resources.

📅 Permit timelines vary depending on location and event activities.

Is your business impacted by property damage?

The Back to Business program supports small businesses impacted by vandalism and property damage. We’re currently accepting applications for two funds:

• Storefront Repair Fund: Grants to help businesses reimburse the costs for fixing damages from vandalism or other property damage for up to three different incidents. Reimbursements will cover costs up to $3,000 per incident.
• Storefront Security Fund: A one-time reimbursement of up to $6,000 per business to help pay for security improvements that prevent vandalism and property damage.

📅 Applications are open through December 2026, or until funds run out.

💻 Learn more about the Back to Business program.

🎨 City grant programs for community-led events

The City of Seattle has funding for smaller-scale arts, cultural, and recreation events that bring people together before and during the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup across every neighborhood. Whether it’s a poetry night paired with a watch party, a cultural parade through South Park, a Filipino street dance class in Lake City, or a youth futsal tournament in Rainier Beach, the City encourages residents to imagine experiences that reflect who Seattle is.

Seattle Office of Arts and Culture: smART Ventures 

• Awards: up to $1,500

• Deadline: to be considered for World Cup-related events, applications should be submitted no later than April 1, 2026 

• Supports: innovative arts and cultural projects, especially from new, diverse, and underserved communities 

• Website: smART Ventures grant  

Seattle Department of Neighborhoods: Small Sparks Grant 

• Awards: up to $5,000 
• Deadline: to be considered for World Cup-related events, applications should be submitted no later than April 22, 2026
• Supports: block-level events, cultural celebrations, performances, art projects, and community gatherings
• Website: Neighborhood Matching Fund