Fort Lauderdale reopens Business Mural Grant Program offering $5,000 awards to local businesses for permanent public artwork

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Businesses across Fort Lauderdale have a new opportunity to transform their buildings into public works of art through the return of the City’s Business Mural Grant Program. The Public Art & Placemaking Program has reopened applications for the initiative, which will provide financial support to five local businesses selected to receive professional mural installations.

Each chosen business will receive a $5,000 grant that will help cover the cost of creating a permanent mural designed and installed by a professional artist. The program aims to bring more artwork into city neighborhoods while supporting local businesses, artists and community spaces.

The application period is currently open and will continue through July 31, 2026. Businesses interested in participating must submit their applications before the deadline to be considered for one of the five available grants.

The funding is designed to cover many of the expenses involved in completing a large-scale mural project. Eligible costs include artist fees, materials, equipment, surface preparation, protective coatings and required permitting expenses.

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To qualify, murals must be visible from a public right-of-way, allowing residents, visitors and surrounding communities to experience the artwork. Selected businesses will also be required to complete their mural projects within six months after receiving official notification of the award.

The city’s selection process will focus on ensuring representation throughout Fort Lauderdale. Priority will be given to selecting one business from each of the city’s four Commission Districts. A fifth business will be chosen based on exceptional artistic merit and the strength of the proposed mural concept.

City officials say the program builds on Fort Lauderdale’s existing collection of public artwork, with dozens of murals already featured throughout neighborhoods. The grant program is intended to expand that visual identity by adding new pieces that reflect the city’s creativity and community character.

Rather than simply decorating buildings, the initiative encourages partnerships between businesses and artists to create meaningful public spaces. Through the program, local businesses can become part of Fort Lauderdale’s growing arts landscape while helping bring more color and creativity to everyday surroundings.

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Business owners interested in applying can find additional information and submit their applications through the city’s mural program website. Applications will be accepted until Friday, July 31, 2026.

The Business Mural Grant Program represents another step in Fort Lauderdale’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public art, encourage neighborhood connections and support local creative talent throughout the city.