Businesses
Shade Pays Off
Make more, spend less
Smart shade isn’t just comfort—it’s good business. Whether you're a small storefront or part of a business improvement district (BID), adding shade can lower your costs, boost your curb appeal, and bring in more customers.
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The Power of Cool
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Lower your bills
Cool your space by up to 10°F with smart shade setups. Less A/C means lower energy bills.
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Bring in more customers
Keep things cool so people stick around—and spend more. Businesses on tree-lined streets see up to 20% higher revenue (CALFIRE).
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Level-up your look
Shade structures add comfort and curb appeal, making your storefront more inviting and allowing you to stand out from competitors.
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Programs to help you shade your shop without eating the cost
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01
Make room for trees
Get up to $3 – 5 per sq. ft. in rebates when you replace your lawn with native plants and even more when you plant trees!
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02
Upgrade your HVAC and cool your roof
Get rebates on efficient HVACs, ENERGY STAR® Qualified Windows, and reflective roofing. Shade outside, save inside.
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03
Team up with your BID
Many BIDs offer grants, bulk purchasing for shade setups, and storefront improvement funds that can help you add shade affordably. Talk to your BID about why shade matters.
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04
Use LA Al Fresco (for outdoor dining)
If you are a restaurant, the LA Al Fresco program can help you set up an outdoor dining space with umbrellas, tables, and even temporary shade structures in public spaces like sidewalks or parking lots.
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05
Shade the right-of-way near your business
Want to cool down the space outside your business? You can adopt a median or sidewalk area through programs like the City of L.A.’s Adopt-a-Median Program. Team up with local greening groups to plant trees, add planters, or keep shaded areas thriving—partnerships like these help your shade solutions last.
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06
Bundle upgrades with other programs
Shade structures can be included in other small business support programs—especially when bundled with signage, outdoor lighting, or greening efforts. Check with your BID or city economic development office.