San Francisco Launches $6.3 Million in Small Business Grants to Fill Vacant Storefronts

San Francisco is putting $6.3 million toward filling empty storefronts, and small business owners can claim a significant portion of that funding through two programs.

Storefront Opportunity Grant: $50,000 to $100,000

This grant is open to both new and existing businesses across several San Francisco neighborhoods. Eligible types include retail, food and cafe concepts, restaurants and bars, pharmacies, grocery stores, and small business incubator kitchens.

Existing businesses must have been operating for 3 or more years with a lease signed October 1, 2025 or later in the Tenderloin, Excelsior, or Visitacion Valley. New businesses do not need an existing lease. Eligible neighborhoods include Bayview, Chinatown, Downtown, Western Addition, Fillmore, Mid-Market, the Mission, and Port areas.

Deadline: May 29, 2026.

SF Shines Equipment Grant: Up to $10,000

For businesses at any stage of growth, maintenance, or compliance that need essential equipment. Covers the cost of equipment purchases tied to operations.

Deadline: March 6, 2026.

How to Apply

Visit sf.gov or contact San Francisco Office of Small Business. The city also offers free business counseling, permitting support, and an online permitting tool to help navigate the process.