December 23, 2025
For many small businesses, a storefront sign is more than just a name on a building—it’s a first impression, a wayfinding tool, and a vital part of attracting customers. In Lakewood, local businesses looking to install or update their signage have access to a City of Lakewood storefront signage rebate grant, and LakewoodAlive plays a key role in helping them successfully navigate the process from start to finish.
The City of Lakewood’s storefront signage rebate grant covers 50 percent of the total cost of a new or updated sign, up to a maximum rebate of $2,500. While the funding opportunity can be a significant boost for small businesses, the application process, coordination with sign shops, and city approvals can feel overwhelming—especially for new business owners.
That’s where LakewoodAlive, Lakewood’s local nonprofit community development organization, steps in.
LakewoodAlive serves as a liaison between the City of Lakewood, local businesses, and the sign shops and designers producing the signage. From the initial inquiry to final reimbursement, the organization helps business owners understand the requirements, complete paperwork, meet deadlines, and ensure that all necessary boxes are checked along the way.
In 2025, LakewoodAlive helped 13 Lakewood businesses start the signage grant process. The businesses represent a range of industries, including retail shops, restaurants, and storefronts offering services and classes — a reflection of Lakewood’s diverse and ever-growing small business community.
LakewoodAlive frequently works with two Lakewood-based sign shops, though business owners are not limited to those options. Referrals to LakewoodAlive often come directly from the City of Lakewood and local sign shops themselves. When new businesses are opening, relocating to Lakewood, or moving within the city, owners are regularly encouraged to connect with LakewoodAlive for guidance — not just on signage, but on navigating the broader landscape of opening and operating a business in Lakewood.
Beyond completing grant applications, LakewoodAlive provides general advice, connects entrepreneurs with helpful resources, and serves as a consistent point of contact throughout the signage process. This hands-on support helps prevent delays, reduces confusion, and increases the likelihood that projects move smoothly from concept to installation.
Supporting small businesses is one of the three core pillars of LakewoodAlive’s mission to foster and sustain vibrant and welcoming neighborhoods. The other two pillars include housing outreach through targeted programming and hosting free community events that bring neighbors together.
Strong local businesses contribute to the vitality of our commercial districts and the overall character of our neighborhoods. Helping business owners access tools like the storefront signage grant is one tangible way we can support their success and, in turn, the health of the community.