Sulphur Springs & West Tampa
Program Overview
The Tampa WeatherWise Small Business Grant Program helps small businesses in Sulphur Springs and West Tampa strengthen their resilience to extreme weather and climate-related disruptions—such as flooding, extreme heat, and power outages.
Through this program, eligible businesses can receive reimbursement funding for approved equipment, building enhancements, and climate-resilience upgrades that protect their operations, employees, and customers.
Funding is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Grant funds received through the Small Business Extreme Weather Preparedness Program may be considered taxable income under federal, state, or local tax laws.
The City of Tampa does not provide tax advice. Businesses are encouraged to consult with a qualified tax professional to understand how grant funds may impact their specific tax situation.
What the Program Supports
Eligible businesses may apply for reimbursement for pre-approved resilience improvements, including:
- Deployable flood gates or barriers
- Flood-proof storage
- Storm panels or shutters
- Portable solar-compatible backup batteries
- Solar control window film
- Indoor or outdoor fans
- Tree installation for shade and heat mitigation
- Cool (sealed) roof improvements
Some items are fully covered, while others require a partial match. All purchases must be approved before installation or purchase.
Funding & Reimbursement
- This is a reimbursement-based program
- Businesses must pay upfront and receive reimbursement after:
- Application approval
- Installation or purchase completion
- Submission of required documentation
Reimbursement amounts vary by item and are capped per category. Certain improvements (such as cool roofs or higher-cost batteries) require a 50% business match.
Who Is Eligible
To qualify, businesses must meet all of the following criteria:
Location
- Sulphur Springs: Businesses located on Nebraska Ave. between Grant Ave/E. River Cove St. and E. Busch Blvd. and businesses located on Florida Ave between N. River Shore Dr. and E. Busch Blvd.
- West Tampa: Businesses located within the boundaries of
- North: Columbus Drive
- South: Green Street
- East: Rome Avenue
- West: North Armenia Avenue
Business Size
- 20 or fewer full-time employees
Business Status
- Privately owned (not publicly owned or a branch location)
- In good standing with City licensing requirements
- No outstanding code violations
Property Approval
- Tenants must receive written approval from the property owner for permanent improvements
Required Business Commitments
Participating businesses must:
- Receive pre-approval before making any purchases
- Submit receipts, photos, and proof of installation
- Complete or update a Business Continuity / Emergency Preparedness Plan (using FEMA guidance)
- Participate in brief follow-up check-ins at:
- 6 months
- 12 months after installation
Business Continuity / Emergency Preparedness Plan
If your business does not already have a continuity or emergency preparedness plan, you will be required to complete one before reimbursement.
Businesses should reference the City of Tampa’s Disaster Planning and Recovery resources for guidance, templates, and best practices:
👉 City of Tampa – Disaster Planning & Recovery for Businesses
How the Application Process Works
- Apply Online or Send Completed PDF application to Amanda Alfarah at 306 E. Jackson, Tampa FL 33602
Submit a complete application for review and pre-approval. - Receive Approval
Only approved items are eligible for reimbursement. - Make Purchases & Install Improvements
Businesses pay upfront and complete installations. - Submit Documentation
Receipts, photos, and confirmation of installation are required. - Receive Reimbursement
Reimbursements are issued after verification and compliance review.
Need Assistance Financing Your Retrofit?
Some businesses may wish to pursue additional financing to support resilience upgrades beyond the grant reimbursement. The following organizations are provided as optional resources for businesses seeking access to capital.
Businesses may choose to work with these lenders, other financial institutions, or any organization of their choosing. Participation in this program does not require businesses to work with any of the lenders listed below.
Black Business Investment Fund (BBIF)
Contact: Tarneisha Peters
📞 813-771-0378
✉️ tpeters@bbif.com
Suncoast Credit Union
📞 689-239-9133
✉️ microloans@suncoastcreditunion.com
Total Mortgage Lending
Contact: Monique Gamble
📞 (833) 832-6865
✉️ mo@teamtml.com
Valley Bank
Contact: Karina Ojeda
📞 (201) 773-7271
✉️ kojeda@valley.com
Apply Now
Funding is limited. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Contact the Small Business Navigator, for more information