The Dimond Improvement Association (DIA) is offering matching grants of up to $2,000 to property owners and tenants in the Dimond District to improve the external appearance of storefronts and commercial properties.
Grants support visible, permanent exterior improvements—such as signage, paint, lighting, windows, awnings, and planters—that enhance curb appeal, strengthen the commercial corridor, and contribute to a more vibrant Dimond neighborhood.
This is a match-based, reimbursement grant. Applicants contribute at least 50% of project costs and are reimbursed after the project is completed and required documentation is submitted.
Program Overview
The Dimond Storefront Enhancement Grant (DSEG) supports local businesses in improving the visual impact, street presence, and curb appeal of their storefronts. Administered by the Dimond Improvement Association (DIA), this program is designed to foster a more vibrant, welcoming, and economically resilient commercial corridor in the Dimond District.
By investing in visible, high-quality storefront improvements, DSEG aims to:
- Attract customers and foot traffic
- Support small business vitality
- Enhance neighborhood pride and streetscape appeal
Eligible Commercial Corridor
To be eligible for the Dimond Storefront Enhancement Grant, businesses must be located within the Dimond Commercial Corridor, defined as:
- MacArthur Boulevard between E. 38th Street and Lincoln Avenue
- Fruitvale Avenue between Montana Street and Coloma Street
- Dimond Avenue between Montana Street and 3511 Dimond
- Champion Street between MacArthur Boulevard and Montana Street
Only storefronts facing or operating along these corridors are eligible for funding.
Eligible Improvements
Funded projects must enhance the exterior appearance of the business and be visible from the public right-of-way. Functional improvements may be considered if they also contribute to the storefront’s visual quality.
Eligible improvement categories include:
Signage
- New or refreshed:
- Storefront signs
- Blade signs
- Wayfinding elements
Awnings & Canopies
- Installation, replacement, or refurbishment
- Repainting or re-lettering
Decorative Exterior Lighting
- Accent lighting
- Under-awning lighting
Windows & Doors (Visual Upgrades)
- Replacement or refinishing
- Trim work or modernization that improves appearance or function
Façade Improvements
- Painting or refinishing
- Stucco or brick work
- Architectural detailing or trim enhancements
Planters & Landscaping
- Decorative planters
- Sidewalk-facing greenery
- Vertical garden installations
- Heavy or anchored planters that may also help deter vehicle-based break-ins
Entryway & Sidewalk Zone Enhancements
- Branded entryway paving
- Decorative surfacing or small inlays
- Coordinated threshold elements
All improvements are subject to applicable City of Oakland permitting requirements.
Ineligible Improvements
The following are not eligible for funding:
- Security upgrades (e.g., bars, roll-down gates)
- Interior-only improvements
- Operational or business equipment
- Temporary or non-permanent improvements
Grant Funding Structure
The DSEG is a matching, reimbursement-based grant program designed to encourage shared investment between DIA and participating businesses.
Standard Matching Grant
- DIA contribution: Up to 50% of total eligible project cost
- Applicant contribution: Minimum 50%
- Maximum DIA award: Up to $2,000 per storefront
Example:
A $4,000 storefront improvement project may receive $2,000 from DIA and $2,000 from the applicant.
Funding is limited, and awards are subject to availability.
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants include:
- Brick-and-mortar businesses located within the Dimond Commercial Corridor
- Property owners or tenants
- Tenant applicants must provide written approval from the property owner
Priority consideration may be given to:
- Small, locally owned, or first-time applicants
- Highly visible or under-maintained storefronts
- Projects with strong potential for transformative visual impact
Who is not eligible:
- Businesses located outside the Dimond Commercial Corridor
Program Timeline (Ongoing)
- Application Period: Continuous
- Review Period: Ongoing; applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis
- Board Review & Approvals: Applications may be approved at any DIA Board of Directors meeting (2nd Thursday of the month). Some projects may receive approval earlier in the cycle if timelines require expedited consideration
- Award Notifications: Rolling, following each Board meeting
Grant Payment & Reimbursement
The Dimond Storefront Enhancement Grant is a match-based reimbursement grant.
- Grant funds are disbursed upon project completion
- Applicants must submit:
- Before-and-after photos of completed improvements
- Itemized receipts documenting eligible project expenses
- Reimbursement is limited to the approved grant amount and matching percentage
No funds will be distributed in advance. Applicants are responsible for covering all upfront project costs.
Expenses incurred prior to written grant approval are not eligible for reimbursement.
Participation Requirements
Grant recipients must agree to the following conditions:
- Complete the approved project within the agreed-upon timeframe
- Obtain and comply with any required City of Oakland permits
- Maintain improvements in good condition
Application Review Criteria
Applications are evaluated based on alignment with program goals and the following criteria:
Visual Impact
Will the project significantly enhance the storefront’s appearance or visibility?
Contribution to the Commercial Corridor
Will the improvement positively affect the streetscape or pedestrian experience?
Feasibility & Clarity
Is the project well-defined, realistic, and achievable within the proposed timeline?
Business Commitment
Does the applicant demonstrate investment, care, and intent to maintain improvements?
Level of Need
Is the storefront currently under-maintained or in need of visible upgrades?
As a pilot program, DIA reserves the right to make fair and well-considered exceptions to these guidelines when appropriate.
How to Apply
Complete and submit the application form.
For questions, please contact:
Dimond Improvement Association
storefrontgrants@dimondnews.org