Business Support
Why West Park?
West Park Kamm’s is an outstanding environment for businesses seeking the markets of western Cleveland and Cuyahoga County. Our location, safe community, and demographics set us apart from other areas—this is the place to be! Discover in these video testimonials what four of our merchants know about operating a business.
Contact Joe Dill, Deputy Director, at 216-329-9546 or joe@westparkkamms.org with assistance regarding any of the programs or information below!
Finding a location
West Park Kamm’s Neighborhood Development tracks available retail and commercial space in Ward 17 and updates the information on a quarterly basis.
When you’ve zeroed in on West Park Kamm’s for your business location, contact WPKND and take advantage of our resources and knowledge. We can help you find your way when setting up shop in our neighborhood by going over the various programs that may apply to your situation.
Don DeVries, All American Karate Studio
Pam Alerine, Style Mutt Dog Boutique & Day Care
Jerry Kolar, K&K Portage Meats
Therese Arth, Public House
Resources for Developers and Entrepreneurs
WPKND has information available to assist businesses in making informed decisions about locating in West Park. We guide prospective businesses by clearly sharing our vision for the neighborhood.
code enforcement
The City of Cleveland is committed to assuring that all existing and new commercial structures in the City of Cleveland are maintained and constructed in a safe and habitable manner through enforcement of the Building and Zoning Codes, pursuant to the review of plans, issuance of permits and inspection of property.
Storefront Renovation Program
West Park Kamm’s Neighborhood Development administers the City of Cleveland’s Storefront Renovation Program in the neighborhood retail district. The program offers design and financial assistance to commercial property owners and businesses that comprehensively rehabilitate the exteriors of their buildings. The goal of the Storefront Renovation Program is to make a visual and economic impact in neighborhood retail districts to keep Cleveland strong and competitive in a regional shopping market. Community Development Block Grant funds provide low-interest loans and rebates of as much as $25,000.
The Storefront Renovation Program is not a maintenance program. In order to qualify for the program, the work has to involve making a visible difference in the façade of the building. One of the guidelines is to restore and maintain the architectural integrity of the building. A City Design Specialist provides free assistance toward laying out the scope and design of the improvements.
Since 1992, WPKND working in partnership with public and private entities has completed more than 85 projects, with an investment of over $4 million in exterior renovations. WPKND is committed to maintaining and improving the West Park neighborhood, and is proud to offer the incentive of the Storefront Renovation Program to help revitalize our commercial district. For more information about the program, call Joe Dill, Director of Neighborhood Development, at 216-252-6559 ext. 1200 or send him an email at joe@westparkkamms.org.
Other Assistance
Far West Design Review Advisory Committee
The Kamm’s Corners Design Review District is a designated commercial district under the City of Cleveland Zoning Code. To promote quality design throughout the neighborhood, the Kamm’s Corners district covers all commercial corridors of Ward 17.
Approval by the Far West Design Review Advisory Committee is required for all new commercial construction and exterior property alterations before a Building Permit can be issued. The committee is composed of design professionals, business owners, and residents, who have been approved by the City of Cleveland Planning Commission.
In addition to new construction and exterior renovation, the Committee reviews all property improvements that require a permit, such as demolition, landscaping, signage, awnings, and public art. The Design Review process ensures that the property improvements are compatible with the character of the neighborhood buildings.
The Committee meets regularly as projects are scheduled. For assistance on the design review process, contact Joe Dill at 216-329-9546 or via email email at joe@westparkkamms.org
Neighborhood Branding
From community events like The Hooley at Kamm’s Corners, to space in bi-monthly e-newsletters, and social media channels, West Park Kamm’s provides marketing and publicity opportunities for your business as a member of our community.
City of Cleveland Permits
It is extremely important to follow the proper permit procedures when making repairs or improvements to your property. Failure to do so has resulted in improvements being dismantled at the property owner's expense because permits were not obtained. For more information, check out the City of Cleveland Online Permitting page.
City of Cleveland Economic Development Department
The City of Cleveland, through the department of Economic Development, has several programs to assist businesses. Whether it’s a new business, or an expanding business, there may be assistance for you in the form of low interest or forgivable loans, small grants, or tax incentives. These programs change often and the current programs are listed at rethinkcleveland.org. Contact us to assist you with accessing city services!
