Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is taking a bold step to support its local businesses by launching the 2025 Small Business Safety & Cleanliness Grant. This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Economic & Sustainable Development, is aimed at enhancing the safety, hygiene, and overall appearance of businesses throughout the city.
With an impressive $85,000 in funding available this fiscal year, the program seeks to create safer and more welcoming environments for both business owners and their customers. Individual businesses can apply for grants of up to $5,000 to fund a wide range of improvements, including crime deterrence measures, vandalism prevention, sanitation upgrades, and general aesthetic enhancements.
“Bloomington’s small businesses are at the heart of our community,” said Andrea de la Rosa, Assistant Director for Small Business Development. “This program gives them tools to invest in their spaces—not just for their customers, but for their employees and neighbors as well.”
The grants are designed to help businesses of all types improve their physical spaces, with the goal of fostering a safer, more attractive environment for all. Eligible projects include upgrades to lighting and security systems, repairs to property after acts of vandalism, exterior cleaning, safety improvements for workers, and accessibility enhancements. The program also extends its support to businesses that have completed qualifying projects in the last six months, offering the opportunity for reimbursement, provided the proper documentation is submitted.
In order to apply for the grant, businesses must submit a comprehensive application that includes several key components. These include a project description and cost estimate, a quote or invoice from a contractor, “before” photos or videos of the project area, proof of business location, and a proposed timeline for completing the project. These materials will help the Department of Economic & Sustainable Development assess the project’s needs and its impact on the overall safety and cleanliness of the business.
The grant is available to all businesses operating within Bloomington city limits. However, all funded projects must be completed within the timeline set forth in the grant agreement. Once the application is submitted, businesses can expect to receive a response within two weeks. Follow-up reporting will also be required to ensure that the improvements are completed as promised.
The $85,000 funding pool is a significant step towards addressing the needs of small businesses, particularly those in underserved areas that may lack the financial means to improve their properties on their own. By focusing on both safety and aesthetics, the program is designed to make businesses not only safer but also more appealing to potential customers.
The Department of Economic & Sustainable Development hopes that by providing this financial support, small businesses can continue to thrive and contribute to the overall growth and vitality of Bloomington’s local economy.
“This program is not just about making improvements to a business’s physical space,” de la Rosa emphasized. “It’s about creating a ripple effect that benefits the entire neighborhood. When small businesses feel supported and are given the tools to succeed, it strengthens the entire community.”
For businesses looking to learn more or apply for the grant, full program guidelines can be found on the city’s official website at bloomington.in.gov/business. Businesses are encouraged to review the guidelines carefully and contact de la Rosa directly at 812-349-3419 for any additional information.
As the city continues to evolve and grow, this new grant represents a clear commitment to enhancing the safety, cleanliness, and vibrancy of Bloomington’s business districts. It’s a critical step in ensuring that small businesses remain an integral part of the city’s thriving economy. With the help of the 2025 Small Business Safety & Cleanliness Grant, Bloomington’s business community can look forward to a brighter, safer future for all.
