Shop Front Improvement, Accessibility and Age Friendly Grant Scheme 

***This grant scheme is now closed, please email expression of interest for our 2024 scheme to shopfrontgrant@kildarecoco.ie***

Kildare County Council has established the Shop Front Improvement, Accessibility and Age Friendly Grant Scheme to financially assist and support independent business owners to improve the appearance of their shop fronts or commercial properties. Particular emphasis should be on works to enhance accessibility and/or add age friendly elements to the premises.

This funding is being provided in recognition of the fact that a building’s facade makes a big impact on our town centres. They help form people’s first impressions of a town centre, so their condition can really affect a town’s image. Smart shop fronts will make a town feel more prosperous, improve its image and contribute towards a stronger sense of identity.

Proposals for funding do not have to involve a significant or expensive change. Simple jobs like repainting a shop front or seasonal window dressing may qualify. Each application will be assessed on its own merits and any job that will enhance the town’s character may qualify for grant aid.

Grant Relief and Payment

A Grant up to a maximum of €5,000 or (i) Up to 50% of eligible costs (ex VAT) for painting / repairs (however, if you include an accessibility or age friendly element the grant offer can be increased up to 75% of eligible costs). (ii) Up to 75% of eligible costs (ex VAT) for accessibility improvements (iii) Up to 75% of eligible costs (ex VAT) for age friendly improvement

Guidelines and Criteria

• Details of proposed works including drawings or even minor details to the facade should be included with the completed grant application form
• Retrospective applications for works already undertaken will not be accepted
• An itemised list and quotations must be provided for proposed work
• Grants will only be offered to independently owned businesses
• Cash payments are prohibited to Contractors and suppliers.

REQUIREMENTS

• Photo of premises before work (current photo)
• 2 quotes per item of work if under €5000, 3 quotes per item of work if over €5000.
• Bank header for Business
• Permission from landlord for works to be carried out or proof of ownership.
• Detailed description of work proposed to be carried out.
• Proof of Rates or payment plan in place with Kildare County Council
• Tax Clearance Certificate

Please ensure no purchases are made or work completed before the application is approved by the Economic Development department in the LEO.

For further information please email shopfrontgrant@kildarecoco.ie or call 045980838 or click on link below for our Kildare Retail Enhancements Support leaflet

Download the interactive brochure here

PLEASE NOTE: Cash payments are prohibited to Contractors and suppliers.