Fourth round of grants supports 24 small businesses and one community development corporation across six Cleveland neighborhoods, bringing total program investment to $1.38 million since 2025 relaunch
 

September 2, 2026— CLEVELAND, OH — The City of Cleveland today announced the fourth round of recipients for the revitalized Steelyard Tax Increment Financing Grant (SYTG) program, awarding a total of $253,000 to 24 small businesses and one community development corporation (CDC) across six Cleveland neighborhoods.
The grants support projects that strengthen neighborhood businesses, improve commercial corridors, and create more vibrant and connected places for residents and visitors.

“Strong neighborhoods are built through continued investment in the small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community organizations,” said Mayor Justin M. Bibb. “This latest round of Steelyard TIF grants is another example of our commitment to investing in the people and places that make Cleveland stronger."

Originally established in 2006, the Steelyard Tax Increment Financing (TIF) was created to support neighborhoods impacted by the economic changes associated with large-scale retail development. In 2025, the City relaunched the grant program with a renewed focus on equity, accessibility, and neighborhood-based economic development, expanding opportunities for small businesses and community organizations to benefit from Steelyard TIF resources.
Since the 2025 relaunch, the City has awarded $1.38 million to 84 small businesses and six CDCs through the program.

“This is what neighborhood-based economic development looks like. The City is meeting communities where they are and investing in their vision for what comes next,” said Joevrose Bourdeau Small, Director of Development. “The Steelyard TIF Grant Program gives us the flexibility to support the businesses and projects that matter most to each neighborhood, from helping a small business grow to creating a more welcoming commercial corridor.”

About the Awardees
The 25 grant recipients represent Ohio City, Tremont, Old Brooklyn, Clark-Fulton, Slavic Village, and Lorain Station. Awarded projects range from public art and placemaking initiatives to infrastructure improvements, business expansions, and other investments that strengthen neighborhood commercial districts.
All six neighborhoods were identified as eligible for SYTG support through a third-party market impact study.
The application process was designed to prioritize accessibility and community benefit. Proposals were evaluated by a cross-departmental review committee representing the Department of Development, City Planning Commission, and Department of Community Development.
Small Business Grant Awardees:

• Hearts and Hangers, Old Brooklyn
• 787 Market & Café, Old Brooklyn
• From the Lobby, Old Brookyln
• Never Say Dive, Old Brooklyn
• Stranci Tattoo & Piercing Co, Old Brooklyn
• Sabor Miami Café & Gallery, Old Brooklyn
• Mediahead, Old Brooklyn
• Atir’s, Slavic Village
• A-Plus Lawn & Equipment Repair, Slavic Village
• Flavor Bomb, Slavic Village
• Ole G’s Barbershop, Clark-Metro
• Pizza Bagel Lady, Clark-Metro
• Ohio City Burrito, Ohio City
• Joy Machines Bike Shop, Ohio City
• Tabletop Board Game Café, Ohio City
• Larder Supply Co, Ohio City
• Blue Jay Retail, Ohio City
• Smooth Rider Smoothies, Ohio City
• Heart of Gold, Ohio City
• Imposters Theater, Ohio City
• Levant Shawarma, Lorain Station 
• Green Thumb Garden Center & Landscaping, Lorain Station 
• Grumpy’s Café, Tremont
• Oscar Estate Holdings, Tremont
• Placemaking Grant Awardee:
  • Slavic Village Development

The Steelyard TIF Grant Program is a cornerstone of Mayor Bibb's Cleveland ERA agenda, driving economic resurgence through industrial revival, neighborhood vibrancy, and government innovation citywide.