$70K sent to help Kansas City business owners recover from break-ins

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) – Kansas City business owners are set to get a slice of more than $70,000 to help pay for repairs and security systems following break-ins over the summer.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas announced on Thursday, Dec. 5, that the first round of Back to Business Fund disbursements has provided support to local businesses impacted by property crime.

City leaders said they will transfer more than $70,000 from the fund to more than 30 businesses in the coming week. Business owners will be able to use the money to repair broken windows, doors and more as well as to remove graffiti. Funds can also be spent on preventative security measures like locks and cameras.

“Kansas City’s small businesses are what make our community great, and we must ensure they have the resources to thrive. The Back to Business Fund shows our commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs during challenging times while investing in the long-term resilience of our small business community,” said Mayor Lucas. “The Back to Business funds will help our local businesses quickly recover and get back to business after a break-in. It’s just one of the many ways we are working to support our business community while improving public safety across Kansas City.”

City officials noted that around 120 applications have been sent in as of Thursday as many owners continue to finalize repairs and preventative measures. Business owners are required to submit receipts or invoices to get the reimbursement grants.

To be eligible, businesses must:

• Have a storefront in Kansas City, Missouri
• Be independently owned with fewer than 50 employees
• Demonstrate physical damage from break-ins or preventative actions taken after July 1, 2024.

Mayor Lucas indicated that certain property owners without active businesses and non-commercial spaces are not eligible. Funds remain available for businesses that need support. Business owners have been encouraged to apply as soon as possible before funds run out.

The Mayor said this is one step in his plan to address crime and concerns about public safety in Kansas City. Other initiatives include:

For more information about eligibility and applications, click HERE.

For more information about the Back to Business visit, click HERE.

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