Businesses in Ipswich Central have the opportunity to share in $100,000 for upgraded shopfronts, after council launched the 2021 Façade Improvement Program on 1 September.
The new program, which provides up to $15,000 in matched funding, follows a pilot program in 2020-21 which saw twelve local businesses install new signs, plant walls, downlighting, awnings and other features at shop entrances.
Mayor Teresa Harding said small businesses are at the heart of council’s initiatives to support a vibrant and prosperous community.
“The 10,000 registered businesses across Ipswich bring so much to our city, between jobs for families a range of wonderful experiences and the opportunity to pursue dreams and aspirations,” Mayor Harding said.
“From Springfield to Rosewood and Pine Mountain to Willowbank, Queensland’s first Small Business Friendly Council is committed to supporting our amazing small business operators.”
Council has allocated $150,000 to further support small businesses in the year ahead, after it provided approximately $260,000 to 195 business across Ipswich through the Small Business Funding Program in 2020-21.
Chair of the Ipswich Central Redevelopment Committee and Division 3 Councillor Marnie Doyle said she would like to see local businesses consider the walkability of Ipswich Central when submitting their applications to the Façade Improvement Program.
“Businesses and property owners in the eligible area can apply for a dollar-for-dollar matched funding of up to $15,000 from Ipswich City Council to support improvements to their building façade,” Cr Doyle said.
“For this year’s program, the eligible area has been extended and council is encouraging businesses to consider the walkability benefits when submitting their applications.
“Great awnings not only improve the presentation of a building but provide shade that inspires visitors to further explore Ipswich Central.
“Increasing the vibrancy of the CBD and encouraging private investment is a key to our city’s economic growth and builds on the momentum generated by the Nicholas Street Precinct redevelopment.”
Division 3 Councillor Andrew Fechner said last year’s pilot Façade Improvement Program has been a success, with local businesses expressing a desire for the program to continue.
“Last year’s pilot program was a huge success with a dozen businesses selected to receive funding,” Cr Fechner said.
“Across the CBD, recipients of pilot program funding have made wonderful improvements to their façades and our streetscape including at Ipswich Massage & Herbal Spa, The Retro Diner, and Ipswich’s oldest business, CJ Vogler & Son.
“Local businesses and property owners can now apply to the 2021 program and we can’t wait to see the further improvements we’ll soon see in Ipswich Central.”
Applications for the Façade Improvement Program are open until Wednesday 13 October 2021.
Interested businesses can officially apply for the funding through the council’s website.
The Façade Improvement Program is part of the Ipswich Central Revitalisation program, stimulating investment and encouraging people to not only visit Ipswich Central but stay and discover.
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