For over a decade, the Storefront Improvement Program has helped hundreds of Philadelphia businesses improve their storefronts and shine with eligible improvements. Through the program, we aim to drive equitable neighborhood revitalization that contributes to vibrant commercial corridors citywide where businesses can operate and actualize their dreams.
Examples of eligible improvements:
- Masonry/brick pointing
- Exterior painting
- Windows/glazing
- Exterior doors
- Exterior facade lighting
- See-through security grills
- Signage, awnings and more.
The program can reimburse up to 50 percent of the cost of eligible improvements to a maximum of $10,000 for a single commercial property, or up to $15,000 for a multiple-address or corner business property. The Storefront Improvement Program is a program of the Department of Commerce.
Business owners share their stories
In this series, we are highlighting the stories of small businesses shining with eligible improvements such as facade lighting and signage. Hear from Justin Coleman (JC), Owner of Bake’n Bacon about what the Storefront Improvement Program means for him and his business:
Tell us a little bit about your business. What services does your company provide?
JC: We are Philadelphia’s first and only bacon-inspired restaurant, which is exciting. We offer much more than just bacon. While some think we only serve pork, we also provide seafood, pescatarian, vegan, and vegetarian options. Our goal is to create a welcoming space where everyone can enjoy great food, feel welcomed, great vibes, and delicious drinks. Additionally, we have an event space, catering services, and food trucks. Visit us at our storefront on 1148 S 11th Street in South Philadelphia.
How many people does your business employ?
JC: We employ about 12 to 15 people at the moment.
What does having a storefront in Philadelphia mean to you? What do you enjoy?
JC: Many restaurants cater to specific crowds, but I wanted to create a space where everyone feels welcome—young, old, and from all backgrounds. Our focus is on ensuring everyone has a great time. As Philadelphia’s first bacon-inspired restaurant, we take pride in being trailblazers. Our unique approach establishes us in a niche that’s both traditional and innovative. It’s exciting to see how we bring people together, reflected in our 4.9 out of 5 reviews after just nine months in business!
When did your business apply for the Storefront Improvement Program and why?
JC: About a year ago, we applied for the Storefront Improvement Program to replace the deteriorating second-floor windows, update the doors, and repaint the exterior. The new paint made a significant difference. We installed a new front door and replaced all the second-floor windows, which were both essential and costly. The program helped us cover half the expenses for the 11-foot windows, which was a tremendous assistance.
What do you like about the commercial area where you are located?
JC: I feel like we can help build the community by having quality food and a quality experience for people. We have been received pretty well. We appreciate the ones who have supported us and have seen what we’re doing to improve our storefront by making it look beautiful for our community, our neighbors. They are impressed and appreciative of our efforts to create a welcoming space for everyone near and far. They recognize that we’ve made it a place they want to visit and return to.
What would you want your customers to know and feel when they enter your storefront?
JC: I want all of my customers, visitors and local residents to feel welcomed. I think what we provide is a space where everyone can be seen, heard, respected and served not just great food or great drinks but served a great experience. I think that’s what sets us aside from many establishments.
Are there people or local organizations that have been instrumental for you throughout the application process?
JC: I thank the Department of Commerce and my business partners for assisting Bake’n Bacon through the Storefront Improvement Program.
How has the Storefront Improvement Program improved your business?
JC: People are drawn in by the new paint outside, our beautiful spacious windows, and the overall style of our business, which is different from that of others on the commercial corridor. I believe it gets and inspires other business owners to also improve their storefronts.
What would you say to a business owner interested in improving their storefronts? What did you learn about the process?
JC: I would say to get a lot of quotes and do your research before making a decision. Make sure that you read reviews because we’ve had some issues with some contractors in the past. You must take your time. You want to take time to look at the best, the worst, and the in-between of reviews.
Why do you think it is important to improve your storefront?
JC: I believe that people eat with their eyes. Therefore, making sure your storefront is presentable, friendly, and inclusive will attract more people.
What impact does the program have on your business? What difference(s) have you seen since the improvements have been finalized?
JC: We receive a lot of compliments about how beautiful the exterior of our storefront is, so that’s a plus. I think it solidifies the type of businessman that Kelvin and I are because people see that we’ve put forth not just the lip service behind it, but the actions necessary to making it look nice outside too.
Anything else that you’d like to share with us?
JC: Our upstairs venue space is coming soon which will be a space where people can rent the space out for birthday parties, celebrations and more of that magnitude. We are excited for food truck season which is in swing for the fall.
Interested in improving your storefront?
Yours could be next! We’re here to assist. The Mayor’s Business Action Team (MBAT) in the Department of Commerce is a concierge service providing personalized assistance in multiple languages to entrepreneurs for all aspects of doing business in Philadelphia.
Business Services Managers are City liaisons providing entrepreneurs access to information through in-person outreach and customized virtual services. Contact us by emailing business@phila.gov or calling 215-683-2100.
