Downtown Storm Mitigation and Resiliency Grant Program

Complete Interest Form

Downtown Storm Mitigation and Resilency Grant

Applications are open

TBD
Grants Awarded
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$1M
Grant Fund

Empowering Downtown Businesses to Weather the Storm.

The Downtown Storm Mitigation and Resiliency Grant Program is designed to strengthen the economic heartbeat of our city in the Downtown Fort Myers CRA by equipping local businesses with tools and strategies to withstand and recover from severe weather events.

The grant will reimburse up to 75% of the cost of eligible pre- and post-storm mitigation equipment and resiliency improvements, with a maximum reimbursement of $100,000.00 per business.

Who’s Eligible

Businesses must meet the following criteria:

  • Located within the designated impact area
  • Commercial Use: Retail, restaurants, professional services, etc.
  • In Good Standing: Compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations
  • Priority Consideration: For businesses that demonstrate clear need, historic value, or community benefit
Storm Mitigation Resiliency Grant Eligibility Area

What You Can Get Funding For

Eligible Expense

The program covers pre-storm mitigation, post-storm resiliency, and planning/assessment costs. Eligible expenses include:

A. Pre-Storm Mitigation EquIpment:
  • Protective Barriers: Hurricane shutters, impact-resistant windows and doors, deployable flood barriers.
  • Water Management Systems: Sump pumps, backflow preventers, elevated electrical systems, dry floodproofing materials.
  • Structural Reinforcement: Roof strapping, bracing for awnings and signs, securing external fixtures.
  • Generator Systems: Purchase and installation of generators to maintain essential operations during power outages.
  • Hardening of Exterior Elements: Secure fencing, reinforced signage, tie-downs for outdoor furniture.
B. Post-Storm Resiliency Equipment & Services:
  • Dehumidification/Drying Equipment: Industrial dehumidifiers, air movers, and specialized drying equipment for water damage.
  • Clean-up & Debris Removal Equipment: Specialized tools for debris handling (excluding general waste disposal services).
  • Temporary Power Solutions: Temporary power distribution systems, power cords, and associated safety equipment.
  • Communication Equipment: Communication equipment and alternative internet connectivity solutions for post-storm operations.
  • Data backup & Recovery Systems: Hardware or software solutions specifically for localized data protection and rapid restoration (does not cover cloud services or general IT infrastructure).

C. Planning & Assessment:

  • Costs associated with professional assessments (e.g., structural engineering, flood vulnerability assessments) directly related to identifying and planning for eligible mitigation improvements.

Note: General repairs, operating costs, insurance premiums, and purchases made before grant approval are not eligible.

Ineligible Expenses

  • General Maintenance or Cosmetic Upgrades
  • Routine repairs, aesthetic improvements, or non-essential beautification projects not directly tied to storm mitigation.
  • Operational Costs
  • Employee payroll, rent, utilities, and other ongoing business expenses
  • Vehicles or Transportation Equipment
  • Cars, trucks, trailers, or any vehicle-related purchases.
  • Pre-Purchased Items
  • Any equipment or services bought before grant approval will not be eligible.
  • Insurance Costs
  • Premiums, deductibles, or any insurance-related fees.
  • Non-Permanent Fixtures
  • Items that are easily removed or not integral to the building structure, such as décor, unsecured furniture, or temporary displays.
  • General IT Infrastructure or Cloud Services
  • Only local, storm-specific data recovery systems are eligible. Standard IT upgrades or cloud subscriptions are not covered.

How It Works

1

Check Eligibility

Confirm your location and business type meet the requirements.
2

Attend an Info Session

Join an optional info session for guidance on the application process.
3

Submit Your Application

Provide the completed application, licenses, project scope, cost estimates, and proof of financial ability to cover your portion.
4

CRA Review & Grant Agreement

Applications are reviewed by CRA Staff. Approved businesses enter into a grant agreement outlining project scope and reporting requirements.
5

Implement Your Project

Purchase and install approved improvements.
6

Request Reimbursement

This program will operate on a reimbursement basis. Business will be required to submit proof of purchase and installation (proof of payment is accepted in the form of a cancelled check with a paid invoice, a wire transfer receipt, or a bank/credit card statement) for approved eligible expenses. Funds will be disbursed upon verification of completed work and expenditures

Funding Overview

  • Total Grant Pool: $1,000,000
  • Max Grant per Business: $100,000
  • Reimbursement Rate: Up to 75%

This program is reimbursement-based, meaning you must complete the project and submit proper documentation to receive funding.

Why It Matters

Small businesses are the soul of our city and the first to feel the impact of severe storms. This grant program:

  • Reduces economic disruption
  • Helps businesses reopen faster
  • Protects historic and cultural assets
  • Builds a resilient downtown economy

Evaluation & Accountability

To measure the program’s impact, businesses may be asked to:

  • Submit final project reports
  • Participate in post-storm assessments
  • Be subject to random financial audits

Ready to Apply?

Click here for the interest form. We encourage you to:
  • Review eligibility
  • Gather quotes
  • Contact CRA staff with questions

Let’s build a stronger, more storm-resilient downtown—together.

Get more info

For more on the Application Process, please reach out to the Fort Myers CRA Office before filling out an application.

Email

fmcra@cityftmyers.com

Phone

239-321-7100

ADDRESS

1400 Jackson Street

Documents