Kansas City supports small businesses with grants for vandalism repairs and security enhancements

Kansas City, Missouri – In a significant step toward bolstering the local economy and enhancing public safety, Kansas City has begun distributing funds from the “Back to Business Fund” to aid small businesses that have suffered due to property crimes. The first batch of disbursements were more than $70,000 distributed to more than 30 companies in need of financial support for preventative security measures and repairs.

The “Back to Business Fund” is designed to address immediate needs such as fixing broken windows and doors, and removing graffiti. To stop more incidents, the fund also supports the installation of security upgrades including enhanced locks and video cameras. This program not only helps companies vital to the local economy to be long-term resilient but also promotes fast recovery.

“Kansas City’s small businesses are what make our community great, and we must ensure they have the resources to thrive. The Back to Business Fund shows our commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs during challenging times, while investing in the long-term resilience of our small business community,” said Mayor Lucas.

“The Back to Business funds will help our local businesses quickly recover and get back to business after a break in. It’s just one of the many ways we are working to support our business community, while improving public safety across Kansas City.”

Since the program’s launch, about 120 applications have been filed; many business owners are currently working on required installations and repairs. Applications for reimbursement grants must include receipts or invoices for the completed job.

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Businesses with a storefront in Kansas City, Missouri, who are privately owned, have less than 50 employees, and can show physical damage from break-ins or preventative measures made since July 1, 2024 qualify for the fund. Property owners without active enterprises and non-commercial areas are not eligible for this assistance.

The city advises qualified companies looking for help to apply quickly before the allocated money runs out. Information on how to apply, along with additional eligibility details, can be found on the city’s official website, KCMO.gov, or by contacting KC BizCare.

The creation of the “Back to Business Fund” is a component of a larger local initiative aiming at addressing public safety and crime concerns. Other initiatives include plans to enhance arrest and holding capacities at the KCPD Headquarters, hosting a CID Roundtable to discuss public safety challenges and solutions, and proposals to integrate KCPD and KCFD 911 dispatch systems and to implement an automated camera enforcement system to improve traffic safety and allow police officers to focus on other critical community needs.

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The goal is to make Kansas City a safer and more prosperous environment for all of its citizens as well as business owners since these policies are still under implementation.