This year, due to the success of the program, Council has increased the grant’s budget from $150,000 to $250,000. 

Business or property owners can apply for match-funding of $10,000 to $25,000 to assist with projects that enhance streetscapes and encourage people to visit and stay longer in the City of Light. 

The Spaniard was one of 11 City-based businesses to secure funding under the last round of grants, approved by Council at the July 2023 Ordinary Council Meeting.

Owner, Ben Vergone, said the $25,000 grant was invaluable as the business moved from Wolf Lane in Central Perth, to its new James Street home in the heart of Northbridge. 

“We were in the middle of renovating and we saw the adverts for the grants and we thought well that’s perfect, we need that and we should get onto it,” Mr Vergone said. 

“It really helped us out in the process of just getting the renovations done and finalised outside.

“We put [the grant] towards the complete alfresco area. That includes the new tables, the new barriers, chairs and the cooling system, the misting system and some heaters as well. So we’re good all year round!

“I would recommend to other businesses in the City that you definitely get on the grant and have a crack at it because it’s so worth it.”

Watch The Spaniard’s story here.

If you’re interested in applying for a Business Improvement Grant, visit our Sponsorship and Grants page now. Applications for this round of funding close 2 May.