URA Opens Applications for Façade Grants to Support Pittsburgh’s Neighborhood Business Districts
PITTSBURGH, PA (April 13, 2026) The Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA) announced today that applications for its Commercial Façade Grant Program are open through Friday, May 29, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. The program will strengthen Pittsburgh’s commercial corridors and support small businesses as part of the City of Pittsburgh’s Main & Main Initiative. This funding round was made possible through an investment from the URA’s affiliate, Pittsburgh Urban Initiatives.
The URA will support up to 25 businesses and commercial property owners in this funding round through reimbursable grants that cover up to 75% of eligible façade renovation costs, with a maximum award of $20,000. Applicants must be able to finance 100% of total project costs upfront to apply and will be responsible for at least 25% of costs after final reimbursement. Additional project funding and matching dollars may be available through the URA and its partner InvestPGH’s low-interest loan programs.
Applicants must be located within the City of Pittsburgh and operate in or own a building with a commercial use such as food, retail or professional services. Grant funds can be used for exterior building and storefront improvements such as lighting, signage, windows, doors, brick pointing, and paint.
“Main & Main is about identifying what our neighborhoods and business districts need and finding ways to meet those needs through partnerships, investment and support,” said Mayor O’Connor. “Thanks to PUI and the URA, we were able to quickly secure funding and open this program so that our small businesses have the support they're looking for to update and maintain their storefronts to attract customers and improve how their main street looks."
“If you walk down almost any main street in Pittsburgh, you’ll see the impact of URA-supported façade renovations at work,” said URA Executive Director Susheela Nemani-Stanger. “We’re proud to continue investing in this proven tool to support our small businesses, strengthen neighborhood business districts, and promote long-term economic growth. This program reduces cost barriers so more businesses and property owners can invest in their spaces, foster positive first impressions, and help make our neighborhoods vibrant and welcoming.”
How to Apply
Interested applicants are encouraged to read the full program guidelines available online, obtain at least one contractor quote, and prepare required documentation before submitting an application by the deadline. Technical assistance is available for eligible applicants who need support completing their applications. For assistance, email business@ura.org.
Project work must begin after a commitment letter is executed and completed within six months. URA staff will review applications following the deadline, with award announcements expected in July 2026.
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About the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh (URA)
The URA is the City of Pittsburgh's economic development enterprise. We are committed to building a prosperous and equitable economy for all of Pittsburgh. We help bridge public and private interests to invest in meaningful equitable developments that promote housing affordability, economic mobility, entrepreneurship and neighborhood revitalization. Our work creates and sustains quality jobs, thriving neighborhoods, healthy communities and sustainable businesses for the benefit of all Pittsburghers.