Surfside Beach’s Business Improvement Grant

by the Town of Surfside Beach

Did you know that Surfside Beach has a business committee? It was created to foster a better relationship between the businesses in town and the town council. 

Over the course of the last few years, the business committee has helped to implement new marketing ideas and strategies (like this segment in the Coastal Insider); rewritten the sign ordinance; and provided feedback on the commercial overlay and new entertainment district. 

The committee is committed to creating a business-friendly culture and improving opportunities for business owners in town, especially by utilizing the Design Overlay Improvement Grant—also known as the Façade Grant.   

The Design Overlay Improvement Grant was created by the Surfside Beach Business Committee to encourage private investment in upgrading the older properties in the town’s design overlay district, otherwise known as C1 and C2 commercial districts. 

The grant funds exterior improvements of buildings up to fifty percent of the project cost with a maximum of $5,000; and landscaping up to a maximum $2,000. Grant applications are accepted at any time. 

Any property owner, tenant, or business within the C1 and C2 commercial districts may apply for a Design Overlay Improvement Grant subject to the requirements in the application.

Lee Zulanch, owner of Benjamin’s Bakery, is the first business to take advantage of the grant. When asked about his experience during the process, Lee stated: “The application and process are simple and it has been a great experience. The encouragement of the business committee and support of the town was uplifting. The town even assisted in connecting us with vendors to ensure a competitive bid was secured so that we could adhere to the grant guidelines.” 

A picture speaks a thousand words and the improvements are impressive.

Grants are funded on a reimbursement basis and applications must be approved in writing prior to any work being started.

If you are a business owner in the commercial districts that could use a facelift or primping, apply today. 

Contact a business committee member with questions or come to the next meeting on November 12, 2019. The business committee meets the second Tuesday of the month at 10am in Council Chambers.