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Cleveland EDC votes to make business improvement grant citywide to boost participation
Summary
The Cleveland Economic Development Corporation unanimously amended its Business Improvement Grant policy to eliminate a secondary tier and extend tier‑1 benefits across the incorporated city in a bid to increase applications and spread program impact.
The Cleveland Economic Development Corporation voted unanimously to amend its Business Improvement Grant policy and fold the program’s tier 2 area into tier 1, making tier‑1 benefits available citywide.
Staff said the change is intended to boost participation after the program received only two applications so far this fiscal year. Emilio Livario, the city’s community economic development director, told the board staff recommends “applying the entire business improvement grant to the...all of the city” while retaining eligibility criteria for commercially zoned, tax‑generating properties.
The board discussed the mechanics of applying the program citywide and the effect on waivers. Board member Brent McWaters moved to amend the policy; Dr. Tanya Clark seconded the motion. President Chuck Thompson called the question and the motion passed unanimously.
According to staff, the amendment removes the need to approve future waivers for properties outside the previous program area but does not change underlying eligibility requirements such as commercial zoning and sales‑tax generation.
Board members said they expect citywide eligibility to attract more applicants and noted the change could increase visible private investment in downtown and other commercial corridors. Staff indicated they will implement the policy change and reflect it in future program materials and grant application guidance.
