Storefronts + Small Businesses
Downtown Houston+ is committed to actively growing and supporting our storefronts and retail economy across Downtown.
Learn more about how our Economic Development, Engagement and Clean & Safe teams are here to help your storefront thrive.
Downtown Houston+ Thrive Storefront Grant Program
Downtown Houston+ offers ground-level storefronts the opportunity to receive funding for improvements through our Thrive Storefront Grants program. Funded by the Houston Downtown Management District, this program seeks to increase retail activity and street-level vibrancy.
Questions about the overview or application? Contact our Economic Development Manager, David Cisneros.
GRANT OVERVIEW GRANT APPLICATION
A Closer Look at Grocery in Downtown:
2025 Grocery Feasibility Study
To complement the Strategic Retail Strategy, Downtown Houston+ completed a Grocery Feasibility Study to understand today’s retail conditions, consumer patterns, and the market potential for expanded grocery options in Downtown Houston.
The analysis supports our broader work to strengthen the street-level environment and offers a foundation for future conversations with partners and operators.
Our Vision for Downtown Storefronts:
2025 Downtown Houston+ Retail Strategy
Learn how our organization is working to attract new storefronts to the growing neighborhood and visitor destination that is Downtown.
Developed in collaboration with Downtown businesses, property owners, and a national consultant, this strategy outlines how our organization will prioritize resources to foster a growing and thriving retail economy that serves Downtown's unique visitors, residents, and workers.
Promote Your Opening & Share Special Events
If your Downtown business is opening and you want to get the word out, or if you have an upcoming event in Downtown that will be open to the public, share the details with our marketing team so we can feature you on our website and social media channels.
Here for Your Business & Keeping Downtown Clean + Safe
Downtown Houston+ works hand-in-hand with local storefronts and small businesses to create a clean and safe retail environment. Our Clean & Safe Ambassadors are on the ground daily, supporting the needs of the neighborhood and everyone doing business here.
Learn more about Downtown Houston+ programs and how we can help your business.
Learn about the New Main Street Promenade
The Main Street Promenade will create a lively, pedestrian-friendly corridor connecting key districts of Downtown Houston with welcoming plazas, shaded walkways, outdoor dining and dynamic public spaces.
If you have questions about how the work will impact your business, reach out to our Planning & Design Manager, Jacque Gonzalez-Garcia.
Local Small Business Development Center
Downtown Houston+ is proud to be an active supporter of the Small Business Development Center.
If your small business would benefit from specialized technical assistance, including business planning, expansion, lending, debt structuring, or workforce, please contact our local Small Business Development Center at 713-752-8400 or sbdcmetro@uh.edu to request free one-on-one counseling from a seasoned small business advisor.