Applications for 2022 Retailer Improvement Grants have opened for stores located in the U.S., Canada, and Japan—and the sooner you can apply, the better.

Throughout 2021, grants have helped numerous stores earn a WPN Premium designation, and your store could be next on the list.

To be reviewed in the first quarter of 2022, you'll need to get your application in by the March 31 deadline.

What is a Retail Improvement Grant?

A Retail Improvement Grant can pay for up to 50% of the total project cost.

Stores located in the U.S., Canada, Japan, and in some parts of Europe may apply for a Retail Improvement Grant to help secure WPN Premium designation. The Retail Improvement Grant can help with a move, renovation, or expansion for your store.

Use the following tips to prepare your application and hit the ground running.

Write a Project Description Ahead of Time

The application will ask for a detailed description of your project. Write one up before getting started with your application, including everything we may need to know about your ideas.

For example, you may want to include links or names of any furniture pieces you may be investing in, including the anticipated cost of work. The more specific you can be in your application, the easier it will be to work with your Retail Development Specialist to get what you need.

We've additionally shared five other things we recommend you consider ahead of applying for a grant.

Talk to Your Retail Development Specialist

If any questions arise as you're writing your project description, schedule a chat with your Retail Development Specialist. They are there to support you and better understand your business, and they're equipped to answer any questions that arise, from the form to our processes.

Your Retail Development Specialist can help you prioritize work you want to have done based on where your store is on the Path to WPN Premium, or they can help you develop your ideas to make sure your product description is thorough.

Select Your Grant Type

Our form allows you to select multiple types of grants at once, between the following choices:

• Furniture


• Design


• Operational


• Construction

You can apply for multiple types of grants in the same application, except operational grants. Any applications for operational grants must be sent as their own application.

A representative will reach out if we’re interested in learning more about your application. If we are unable to proceed with your application, we will tell you at the end of each quarter. However, you can always apply again next season!

Again, to ensure your grant is reviewed in the first quarter of 2022, you’ll need to complete your application before the March 31 deadline.

Our teams are eager to help talk you through your application. If you have any questions about Retail Improvement Grants, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Once you're ready, open the Retail Improvement Grant application form and apply!