Edinburg EDC’s FLIP Program Enhances Local Business Landscapes
Photo above: The Edinburg EDC’s FLIP program will open for applications this coming Monday. Courtesy Edinburg EDC.
Staff Report
EDINBURG TX – The Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) continues to bolster local businesses through its Façade and Lot Improvement Program (FLIP), offering financial assistance to small enterprises aiming to enhance their properties. Applications for the program will be accepted starting Monday, March 17, 2025.
Program Overview
FLIP provides grants of up to $10,000 to Edinburg businesses with fewer than 20 employees for exterior property improvements. Eligible enhancements include roof repairs, parking lot renovations, signage upgrades, landscaping, and façade improvements.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the program, businesses must:
- Be located within Edinburg city limits.
- Be a commercial property owner or an existing for-profit tenant with fewer than 20 employees.
- Be currently operating and locally owned.
- Be current on local property tax payments.
- Have no outstanding code enforcement violations or liens.
- Submit two quotes for the proposed work, with at least one from an Edinburg-based contractor.
- Obtain landlord authorization if the applicant is a tenant.
Understanding the specific improvements that qualify for funding is essential for potential applicants.
Eligible Improvements:
FLIP funds can be utilized for various exterior enhancements, including:
- Outdoor Patios: Constructing new outdoor seating or customer areas.
- Façade Enhancements: Activities such as exterior painting, re-siding, cleaning, or restoring significant architectural details to revitalize the building’s appearance.
- Landscaping: Installing permanent landscaping features to improve aesthetic appeal.
- Entrances: Upgrading or installing new doors, windows, or awnings.
- Parking Areas: Resurfacing parking lots with striping to enhance functionality and appearance.
- Signage: Repairing, removing, or replacing old signage to ensure clear business identification.
- Roof Repairs: Conducting repairs that are part of the existing building structure.
These improvements are aimed at revitalizing the exterior of properties, thereby contributing to the overall economic vitality of Edinburg.
Ineligible Improvements:
Certain projects do not qualify for FLIP funding, including:
- Secondary Structures: Improvements to accessory buildings such as garages, storage units, or closets.
- Mechanical Systems: Upgrades or installations of equipment, mechanical, or HVAC systems.
- New Construction: Building entirely new structures.
- Storefront Modifications: Reducing or enclosing existing storefront windows, which could detract from the building’s original design.
- Routine Maintenance: General upkeep tasks that do not significantly alter or improve the property’s exterior appearance.
- Security Enhancements: Installing security systems, including metal roll-down gates, window bars, or cameras.
- Timing of Improvements: Any improvements performed prior to February 25, 2025, or after September 30, 2025, are not eligible for reimbursement.
Applicants should carefully review these criteria to ensure their proposed projects align with program guidelines.
Application Process
The FLIP program operates on a reimbursement basis, with funds disbursed upon project completion. Applicants must ensure all necessary permits are obtained before commencing work, as expenses incurred prior to approval are not reimbursable. In cases of demonstrated financial hardship, the EEDC may consider providing upfront financial assistance.
All improvement projects must receive approval from EEDC staff and the City of Edinburg’s Development Services before work begins. Additionally, permit fees for approved projects will be waived, easing the financial burden on participating businesses.
Program Impact
In the previous fiscal year, the EEDC committed $400,000 to the FLIP program, benefiting 40 local businesses. These improvements have not only enhanced the visual appeal of individual establishments but have also contributed to the overall economic vitality of Edinburg.
Upcoming Opportunities
The EEDC is preparing for the next round of FLIP, with applications set to open on March 17, 2025. Interested business owners are encouraged to review program details and apply through the EEDC’s official website.
Source – Edinburg Economic Development Corporation