Oak Park Grant Program Helps Businesses Invest in Fire-Safe Facilities

The Village of Oak Park is helping local businesses strengthen fire protection in their buildings with financial support offered through its Fire Safety Business Grants Program.

The grants, part of the village’s broader Business Assistance Grant Programs, offers eligible businesses and commercial property owner’s reimbursement for up to 50 percent of qualifying fire safety improvements, with grants capped at $5,000. Eligible improvements include installation (or upgrades) of fire alarm and fire sprinkler systems, as well as purchases of fire extinguishers, Knox boxes, signage, and other fire safety-related items. All grant recipients work directly with the fire marshal to ensure fire safety improvements meet applicable compliance standards.

“The Fire Safety Business Grants Program came about because of feedback the village would receive as businesses were opening up in the community,” said Noemy Diaz, Business Services Manager/Administrative Officer for Oak Park’s Development Services Department. “For many, the costs associated with installing or improving existing fire safety equipment are items that they did not initially budget for or consider. We wanted to support the small businesses that contribute to Oak Park’s economic growth.”

Recognizing the significant expense (particularly for small and locally owned businesses), the Village developed the grant program to help offset those costs. “Our goals are to improve public safety, encourage compliance with fire prevention standards, and reduce fire-related risks, as well as support a safe and sustainable business environment for the long-term strength of the local economy,” Diaz said.
Any Oak Park business with an active business license, as well as commercial property owners, may apply for funding through the program. Improvements ranging from maintenance of existing equipment to entirely new installations will be considered.

Investing in Oak Park’s Vitality

Fire sprinkler systems play a particularly important role in protecting both businesses and the broader community, stated Diaz. “Fire sprinklers contain or suppress fires early, which reduces the risk of injuries to occupants and first responders, limits property damage, and helps businesses recover more quickly after an incident.”
Fire sprinkler systems can also prevent fires from spreading to neighboring buildings—an especially important consideration in closely connected business districts.
Interest in the grant program continues to grow. According to Diaz, eight businesses have already received grants for fire safety improvements, while five additional applications are currently under review.

The Fire Safety Business Grants Program is one component of Oak Park’s larger business support efforts. Diaz described the Village’s Business Services Division as a “one-stop shop” for businesses looking to start, relocate, or expand within Oak Park. In addition to helping business owners navigate permits, licenses, and zoning requirements, the division also connects applicants with funding opportunities and improvement incentives.
More information about the Oak Park Fire Safety Business Grants Program can be found at the Village of Oak Park Business Assistance Grant Programs page.