Applications now open for Kansas City outdoor dining grant program

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas announced restaurants, bars, and coffee shops from all over the city can apply to a new enhancement program meant to help revive dining spaces.

Applications for the Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Program will be accepted from July 29 to Aug. 16, 2024.

The grant program will award a total of $200,000 from the Convention and Tourism Fund to local restaurants to enhance their dining spaces. The program is sponsored by Mayor Lucas and Second District Councilman Wes Rogers.

“The Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant Program ensures our local businesses stay competitive and offer exceptional dining experiences as our community continues to grow,” Mayor Lucas said.

“When we give our small businesses and restaurants a chance to succeed, our whole community thrives.”

Eligible restaurants can apply for grants of up to $15,000 to enhance their outdoor dining spaces.

Here is a list of requirements:

• Be a private, for-profit, full-service restaurant
• Be located in Kansas City, Missouri
• Hold all necessary licenses and permits for the business and maintain good standing with the City (a KCMO Tax Clearance letter will be necessary).
• Utilize grant funds to increase the total number of outdoor dining tables available for at least six months in a calendar year.
• Have been operational for at least one year (i.e., obtained a KCMO business license by July 1, 2023)
• Ensure the sidewalk or street café size allows for a 5-foot clear path to meet ADA requirements.
• Utilize the entirety of the grant funds solely for outdoor dining enhancements, such as building structure construction, infrastructure, walkway expansions, furniture and coverings purchase, and necessary permit expenses.

To apply for the program or for more information, click here .

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