Press Release
For Immediate Release
Contact Information
Eric Moss, Director of Communications
Office of Economic Development
Phone: 206-640-7090
Email: eric.moss@seattle.gov
Seattle Launches "Back to Business" Program to Support Small Businesses Impacted by Property Damage and Vandalism
Seattle, WA — August 7, 2025 – This week, Mayor Bruce Harrell and the Seattle Office of Economic Development launched the "Back to Business” program, designed to support small businesses and communities impacted by vandalism and property damage. Building on the success of the Storefront Repair Fund, the expanded Back to Business program now includes grant opportunities that support proactive safety improvements in addition to immediate recovery from property damage.
“Every shattered window, broken door, or vandalized storefront isn’t just a repair bill – it’s a real setback for a business owner, an employee’s livelihood, and a neighborhood’s vitality,” said Mayor Bruce Harrell. “We’re making investments in real solutions because Seattle is open for business, and we will keep it open by fostering a great environment for small businesses. These grants are about more than repairs – they’re about restoring confidence and protecting the vibrancy of the neighborhoods we all love.”
Qualified small businesses are encouraged to apply. Applications are open through December 2025, or until funds run out.
The Back to Business program includes three components:
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Storefront Repair Fund: Provides business owners grants of up to $3,000 per incident to reimburse small business owners for damage caused by vandalism or other property damage.
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Storefront Security Fund: Offers business owners grants of up to $6,000 for preventive security improvements to help reduce future incidents.
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Neighborhood Investments: Allocates funding to Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) and other neighborhood organizations identified through Seattle Police Department data for Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) improvements to neighborhood identified businesses.
To receive funding, eligible businesses must provide receipts or proof of expenses for reimbursement of repairs, or approved CPTED-evaluated security improvements.
“This critical investment to support small businesses in the midst of ongoing public safety struggles couldn’t be more timely,” said Council President Sara Nelson (Position 9). “The successful Storefront Repair Fund was an idea that came out of my second committee meeting in February 2022, and after three successful rounds, I’m thrilled we’re building on that work by including funding this time to prevent vandalism as well.”
The Back to Business program is part of the city’s broader economic recovery strategy and small business support framework, reflecting the city’s continued commitment to addressing challenges faced by local businesses and business districts and acting on the issues they raise. For more details on eligibility, required documentation, and how to apply, visit the Seattle Office of Economic Development's website or contact the office directly.
“Our small businesses define our city’s character — they shape our neighborhoods, power our economy, and reflect and enhance our culture. But our small businesses are at a tipping point for survival in Seattle for multiple reasons from rising costs to public safety issues,” said Seattle Office of Economic Development Director Markham McIntyre. “The City needs to act to ensure small businesses survive and thrive, which is exactly what we are doing by launching this new Back to Business fund to make investments in our small businesses and improve public safety.”
Jen Osborn, Owner of Paratex
“The Storefront Improvement fund is about more than just “storefronts” as we know them. Thousands of small businesses throughout Seattle—services, trades, cafes, and shops—are struggling with rising costs of insurance, product inflation, staffing, fees, and tariffs. The extra expenses for security, graffiti removal, or a broken window repair are becoming unsustainable. Small city grants for these costs can really help, showing that Seattle values how vital small businesses are to the vibrancy and culture of the city.”
Jen Carl (She/Her), Capitol Hill Neighborhood Safety Coordinator, GSBA
“With public safety and public health continuing to be at the forefront of conversations in and around Seattle, the Back to Business fund provides business owners with the funding to proactively deter crime and reactively respond with efficiency when incidents do happen. This opportunity is vital for small businesses to keep their buildings, staff, and customers safe and secure, allowing them to focus instead on what makes them and our city so vibrant.”
Jeffrey Long, Long Brothers Fine & Rare Books
"The Storefront Repair Fund provided vital reimbursement for the cost of a vandalized plate glass window. As a small business owner striving to reinvigorate downtown Seattle, the support ensured that my month remained financially sound."
About the Seattle Office of Economic Development
The Seattle Office of Economic Development (OED) is committed to fostering a strong and inclusive economy in Seattle. Through programs, policies, and partnerships, the OED supports small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community-led solutions that contribute to the city's economic vitality. For more information, visit seattle.gov/economicdevelopment.
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