04 Aug, 2015

Business Improvement Grants off to a Flying Start

City of Adelaide’s Shopfront Improvement Grant Program is off to a flying start with some innovative city business ideas set to make a big impact.

The City of Adelaide initiative to support projects that attract customers, improve access for people with disabilities and contribute to a welcoming and interesting city experience, has received over 50 enquiries to date.

Deputy Lord Mayor and small business owner, Houssam Abiad, said one of the reasons the program is so popular is that it helps small businesses to capitalise on their premises by enhancing their frontages.

“Often small businesses focus on profitability at the expense of shopfront improvements which, in reality, can attract more customers and improve business visibility,” said Houssam.

“The program has received a wide variety of applications for improvements including green walls, freshening up facades and servery windows – which are all great ideas that can help a business really stand out from the crowd.

“We’re impressed with the innovative and unique ideas coming into Council for consideration. Many of the ideas were ones that businesses already had been thinking about, but this program gave the extra incentive needed to help it happen.”

Graeme and Ann Harrison, proprietors of Harrison Music on Grenfell Street, said Council has encouraged their idea to improve their store’s illumination and visibility with a set of neon lights that they’re hoping will become an icon for the street.

“We have been really impressed by Council’s ‘hands-on’ practical interest and helpful involvement in making our store one that customers are drawn to, which contributes to the city being a thriving, busy place to live and visit,” said Graeme.

“Customers and staff agree that the change to our shopfront is a great fit for our business and reflects our family-friendly atmosphere, which continues once people step inside.”

Christophe Zauner, owner of Hey Jupiter in Ebenezer Place, is in the process of finalising a unique tiling feature with a design inspired by Paris Metro station signage, and collaborated with SA artist Tristan Kerr on signwriting distinctive to their French bistro awnings.

“Our shopfront is already transformed with the tiling feature we’ve installed and, once Tristan has finished, our shopfront really will be distinctive, just like our business,” said Christophe.

The Shopfront Improvement Grant Program will remain open for grant applications ranging from $1,000 to $6,000 until the funds are fully allocated. To find out more visit: cityofadelaide.com.au/shopfronts