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Special Enterprise Program
The Special Enterprise Program (SEP), approved by Council in January 2021, is a 5 year pilot that aims to preserve and strengthen the cultural diversity, long-term viability, and economic opportunity of heritage businesses, social enterprises, and non-profit organizations in Chinatown and the Downtown Eastside.
Offered by Business Communications and Support Office
Amount
No fixed amount
Quick eligibility check
Years in business
No minimum stated
Employees
No limit stated
Revenue
No limit stated
Legal structure
Incorporated, sole proprietor, partnership, co-operative, non-profit, charity
Location
Who can apply
Eligible businesses, non-profit, and for-profit groups that fall under the following categories:
- Heritage businesses
- Community-serving and social enterprises
- Non-profit or for-profit properties with a social purpose
About the funding
The SEP was initiated with an initial allocation of $500,000, sourced from the DTES Capital Grants funding. This funding is distributed across three main areas:
- Community-Serving Retail Project: $150,000 allocated to support retail initiatives that serve the local community.
- Capacity Building: $150,000 dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of businesses, non-profits, and social enterprises through training and development.
- Access to Affordable Spaces: $200,000 aimed at facilitating affordable space solutions for eligible organizations.
Similar programs
| Program | Type | Amount | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heritage Façade Rehabilitation Program | Grant | Up to $50,000 | Open |
| Access Support Fund | Grant | No fixed amount | Open |
| Circulation and Touring of Arts Abroad | Grant | Up to $200,000 per application (a maximum of 50% of total eligible costs) | Open |
