There are numerous strategies and tools for preventing commercial gentrification and small business displacement. Across the U.S. and internationally, small businesses and their advocates are are addressing the challenges and vulnerabilities posed by commercial gentrification in innovative ways.

We provide an overview of seven anti-displacement strategies, then highlight specific tools that can be used to advance each strategy. Choose a strategy below to learn about:

  • How tools can be implemented
  • The stakeholders needed to advance each tool
  • The strengths and challenges of each tool
  • Examples of how tools or strategies are being used

Commercial Preservation and Property Improvement

Small, longtime businesses are invaluable to the social fabric of communities. Preserving these businesses safeguards a neighborhood’s historical and cultural elements.

Local Hiring and Entrepreneurial Support

Neighborhood small businesses with few employees need support accessing financial and other resources and navigating municipal codes and regulations, sometimes because of language barriers.

Tax Credits and Incentives

Neighborhood small businesses may be eligible for tax credits and incentives, benefit from those given to property owners and developers, or be eligible for programs funded by tax revenue.

Zoning and Form-Based Codes

Zoning and codes can be help retain space for small businesses, protect community-serving retail and services, limit the size and type of retail stores, and create and maintain affordable commercial space.

Commercial Tenant Protections

Small business tenants often lack the same rights and protections as residential tenants and are vulnerable to rent increases, landlord harassment, and evictions.

Community Ownership

Community ownership is a long-term anti-displacement solution that provides stability for small businesses and allows community members to control commercial assets, land, and enterprises.

Place-Based Management

Place-based initiatives can transform underinvested commercial corridors and provide support to entrepreneurs of color through development and placemaking that is guided by neighborhood small businesses, residents, and other local stakeholders.