San Francisco Sun

San Francisco, CA – Mayor London Breed has announced new initiatives aimed at supporting small businesses and addressing vacancies in Downtown San Francisco. These programs are part of a broader economic revitalization effort designed to assist entrepreneurs in launching new ventures and support existing businesses.

Since the pandemic, over $115 million has been directed through more than 6,800 grants and loans to local small businesses across San Francisco. This funding aims to cut red tape and fees while providing direct support at the City’s Permit Center.

The current budget includes $15 million for small business investments targeting several key areas:

- Expansion of Vacant to Vibrant Pop-Ups on Powell Street and additional Downtown storefronts.

- A new Downtown SF Vibrancy Loan Fund to help fill vacant storefronts.

- An Open Downtown Grant for businesses moving into Downtown.

- Expanded Vandalism and Fire Relief for unexpected expenses.

- Enhanced SF Shines program for physical improvements and design services.

Mayor Breed stated, "San Francisco has made tremendous progress both in our economic recovery and delivering important changes that are making it easier to open and run a business in our City." She emphasized the importance of keeping small businesses central to city planning efforts.

The expansion of the Vacant to Vibrant program will allocate $3 million for its two-year extension. The initiative connects small businesses with property owners to create pop-up activations aimed at revitalizing Downtown. Applications are now open on SF New Deal’s website.

Simon Bertrang, Executive Director of SF New Deal, remarked, “This expansion will help breathe new life into Union Square and across Downtown by creating opportunities for small businesses.”

A partnership with Main Street Launch has introduced a $3.6 million loan fund with up to $100,000 available per business at a 4% interest rate. Qualifying businesses also receive a $25,000 grant from the City.

Rohan Kalbag, CEO of Main Street Launch, commented on the fund's role in revitalizing San Francisco's heart: “By offering targeted financial support, we aim to fill vacancies with more businesses that people love.”

Sarah Dennis Phillips from OEWD noted the importance of equitable economic recovery: “We have already seen how local small businesses are starting to transform the character of Downtown.”

Starting early 2025, $1.3 million will be available through an Open Downtown Grant for businesses filling vacant storefronts. Last year’s Storefront Opportunity Grant program supported 71 storefronts citywide.

Katy Tang from the Office of Small Business highlighted SF Shines' role: “SF Shines can be critical for businesses at any stage.”

The Vandalism Relief Grant offers up to $2,000 per incident with expanded eligibility this year. Michael Sanchez from Venezia Upholstery shared his experience receiving fire relief support: “The support from the City helped us move only four doors down."

For more information about these programs or upcoming webinars, visit sf.gov/SmallBusinessGrants.