Storefront Improvement Grant
$50,000
Grant
Description:
This is a matching reimbursement grant for large, significant exterior renovations, up to 50% of project costs.
Comments on Funding:
Mid-block buildings may be eligible for up to $25,000. Corner buildings may be eligible for up to $50,000. Projects which have begun construction before being approved and entering into a Reimbursement Agreement are not eligible for grant funding.
The 2025 intake periods run from February 17-March 14, April 1-30 and October 1-31
Eligibility:
Eligible applications must answer yes to all of the following:
❏ Construction work has not started
❏ Property is located within a Business Improvement Area or other Council-approved
Target Area
❏ Project will support commercial use on the main floor. Home based businesses do not
qualify
❏ Property has not previously received a Storefront Improvement Grant/Facade
Improvement Program Grant
❏ Project includes at least one critical improvement (see below for critical improvements)
❏ Building will have clear, unobscured street-level windows once construction is complete
and for the 5 year maintenance period
❏ Window tints, vinyl wraps, tinted or frosted glass, large window decals, and
window perforations that obscure views in and out of the building are not
permitted
Application Steps:
The property owner or someone approved by the property owner to act on their behalf may
apply for the Storefront Improvement Program Grant.
1. Contact the Program Manager to confirm eligibility. The Program Manager will visit your
site to discuss your plans and help you plan for a successful project.
2. Complete an application package and submit it to the Program Manager during an
application period:
Documentation Needed:
a. Application form
b. Building elevations showing design and materials
c. Conceptual drawings or renderings to support the building elevations
d. Site plan that shows the property line
Other Things to Note:
Note that the design principles have been updated to include energy efficiency and climate resiliency.
Applications submitted outside an application period will not be accepted. Please note that application periods may be cancelled if all funding is allocated during a prior application period.
About the author
Maurice
