The Small BID Support Grant Program is administered by the New York City Department of Small Business Services (SBS) under its Neighborhood Development Division (NDD). This program supports the city’s smaller Business Improvement Districts (BIDs), providing financial assistance to enhance commercial corridor management and growth. The initiative aligns with Mayor Eric Adams’ "Rebuild, Renew, Reinvent: A Blueprint for New York City's Economic Recovery," ensuring that small BIDs have access to resources to improve economic vitality across the five boroughs.

New York City has 76 BIDs, many of which operate on modest budgets with assessments of $600,000 or less. These organizations, typically run by small teams, struggle to provide services at the level of larger BIDs. Additionally, some BIDs in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods face challenges despite higher assessments. This grant seeks to address these issues by providing targeted financial support to these districts.

The Single District Small BID Support Grant Program provides up to $100,000 per BID for staffing, planning, and implementing commercial revitalization projects within designated BID boundaries for Fiscal Year 2026 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026). Eligible projects must focus on enhancing cleanliness, public safety, placemaking, business support, marketing, retail attraction, and more. Applicants may choose up to four project components to fund within their BID.

To qualify, applicants must be incorporated nonprofit corporations operating in NYC, currently providing commercial revitalization services within the boundaries of an eligible BID, and compliant with New York State and federal filing requirements, including Charities Bureau filings. Funds must be used exclusively within the eligible BID service area.

The application process requires online submission via the NYC Small Business Services grants portal by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025. A competitive review process will evaluate proposals based on proposal strength (40 points), innovation (20 points), need (20 points), and organizational capacity (20 points). Selected grantees will enter into a contract with NYC SBS and must comply with reporting and regulatory requirements.

Applicants must complete a detailed proposal, including a description of how the funds will be utilized, a project budget, and a timeline for implementation. Additional contracting requirements include registration with the NYS Charities Bureau, compliance with vendor payment systems, submission of audited financial statements, and insurance coverage. Questions regarding the grant application process can be directed to erice@sbs.nyc.gov.