Construction & Real Estate Grants in Canada: Current Grants + Tips for Applying

The construction and real estate sector is vital in shaping Canada’s infrastructure and economy. From building sustainable housing to developing commercial spaces, businesses in this industry drive progress and growth. However, these ventures often require substantial capital. Business grants offer targeted funding to support innovation, sustainability, and workforce development in the sector.

Key Takeaways

  • Business grants are non-repayable funds provided to support specific goals in the construction and real estate sector.
  • Funding is offered by federal and provincial governments, as well as non-profit organizations, to encourage growth, sustainability, and innovation.
  • Eligibility typically depends on location, industry focus, project alignment, and financial need.
  • Funds can be used for activities like energy-efficient building projects, workforce training, technology adoption, and community development.
  • Complementary funding options include business loans, equity investments, and tax incentives.

What is a Business Grant?

A business grant is a non-repayable financial award provided by governments, non-profits, or private organizations to support specific objectives in the construction and real estate industry.

Construction & real estate grants aim to promote sustainable practices, foster innovation, and boost economic growth by addressing the sector’s unique challenges and opportunities.

Types of Grants Available:

  1. Activity-Oriented Grants: Support essential activities like energy-efficient retrofits, workforce training, and technology adoption.
  2. Audience-Specific Grants: Target specific groups, such as Indigenous entrepreneurs, women in construction, or youth entering the trades.
  3. Industry-Specific Grants: Focus on advancing construction technologies, green building practices, and affordable housing initiatives.
  4. Regional Grants: Designed to stimulate economic development in underserved areas or support local infrastructure projects.

Grants vs Loans in Canada for Construction & Real Estate

Both grants and loans provide essential funding but serve different purposes and come with distinct advantages and challenges:

AspectGrantsLoans
RepaymentNot requiredRequired with interest
Financial RiskLowMedium to high
EligibilityBased on project alignmentBased on creditworthiness
Application ProcessCompetitive and lengthyStraightforward but credit-dependent


Choose grants for projects that align with specific funding goals, such as energy efficiency or workforce development. Opt for loans when you need flexible capital for broader business needs. Combining grants and loans can provide a balanced financial strategy.

Types of Grants for Construction & Real Estate in Canada

Federal Government Grants for Construction & Real Estate

Federal government business grants focus on advancing national priorities in the construction and real estate sector. These grants aim to foster innovation, reduce environmental impact, and support large-scale infrastructure and community development projects. Typical activities funded include green building initiatives, workforce development, and research into sustainable construction methods.

Provincial Government Grants for Construction & Real Estate

Provincial governments provide grants tailored to address local and regional challenges within the construction and real estate industry. These grants often support activities like affordable housing developments, energy-efficient retrofits, and regional infrastructure improvements. By funding these projects, provinces aim to stimulate local economies, create jobs, and enhance community well-being.

Non-Profit Grants for Construction & Real Estate

Non-profit organizations offer grants to support specific causes in construction and real estate, such as environmental sustainability or affordable housing. These grants typically fund projects that align with the organization’s mission, including pilot programs for innovative construction technologies, educational initiatives, and projects aimed at improving housing accessibility for underserved populations.

Eligibility Criteria for Construction & Real Estate Grants in Canada

Eligibility for grants in this sector depends on various factors, including:

1. Business Location

  • Grants may target businesses operating in specific regions, particularly those identified as underserved or in need of infrastructure improvements. Urban renewal areas and rural communities are often key focuses.

2. Industry Focus

  • Applicants must demonstrate active involvement in construction, real estate, or related activities such as sustainable building practices, property management, or community development.

3. Project Alignment

  • Proposals must directly align with the grant’s stated objectives. This might include energy efficiency improvements, workforce upskilling programs, or the development of affordable housing solutions.

4. Organizational Capacity

  • Businesses must provide evidence of their capability to execute the project, such as a strong team, clear timelines, and robust project management practices.

5. Compliance and Accountability

  • Recipients are expected to adhere to all regulatory standards and provide regular reports on progress, financial expenditures, and achieved milestones. Non-compliance may affect future funding opportunities.

6. Financial Contribution

  • Many grants require applicants to contribute matching funds or demonstrate financial commitment to the project.

Applying for Construction & Real Estate Business Grants: Top 5 Tips

1. Understand Your Project Needs

  • Clearly outline the problem your project addresses and its expected impact. Define your goals, target beneficiaries, and long-term benefits to demonstrate alignment with grant objectives.

2. Prepare a Comprehensive Application

  • Develop a detailed proposal that includes project timelines, financial breakdowns, and measurable success indicators. A well-organized application with clear, evidence-based justifications stands out to evaluators.

3. Highlight Innovation and Sustainability

  • Showcase how your project incorporates innovative techniques, technologies, or practices that contribute to sustainability, efficiency, or community enhancement. These elements often align with key grant objectives.

4. Leverage Partnerships and Collaboration

  • Demonstrate how partnerships with other businesses, non-profits, or government entities will strengthen your project’s implementation and outcomes. Collaborative efforts can add credibility and appeal.

5. Plan for Future Impact and Scalability

  • Highlight how your project’s success can be scaled or replicated to benefit the broader construction and real estate industry. This forward-thinking approach resonates with grant providers seeking long-term impacts.

Alternatives to Construction & Real Estate Grants in Canada

Business Loans & Credit for Construction & Real Estate Businesses

Loans provide flexible funding for various business needs, including:

  • Equipment Financing: Secure funding for purchasing or leasing construction machinery, tools, or vehicles critical for project execution.
  • Working Capital Loans: Ensure smooth operations by covering short-term expenses, such as payroll, materials, or overhead costs, during the project lifecycle.
  • Line of Credit: Establish a revolving credit line to handle unexpected expenses or gaps in cash flow.

Startup Programs for Construction & Real Estate Businesses

Startup programs support emerging entrepreneurs through funding, mentorship, and networking. These programs often focus on:

  • Seed Funding: Providing initial capital for new ventures to launch innovative projects or services in construction and real estate.
  • Training Opportunities: Offering workshops, certifications, and courses to develop skills in project management, sustainability practices, and advanced construction techniques.
  • Business Networking: Facilitating connections with industry leaders, investors, and other entrepreneurs to foster collaboration and growth.

Equity Investment Programs for Construction & Real Estate Businesses

Equity investment programs connect businesses with investors who provide funding in exchange for an ownership stake. Key benefits include:

  • Access to Capital: Obtain significant funding for high-growth or large-scale projects without the immediate repayment obligations of loans.
  • Strategic Guidance: Gain valuable expertise and mentorship from experienced investors or venture capital firms.
  • Market Expansion Opportunities: Leverage investor networks to access new markets or customers.

Construction & Real Estate Grants in Canada – Current Grants Available

In the sections below you’ll find a sample of the federal and provincial grants currently available for construction & real estate businesses in Canada:

Federal Government Grants for Construction & Real Estate

National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF)

Amount:

NTCF funding envelope of $4.2 billion (15% dedicated to Canada’s Arctic and Northern regions); funding spread out over 11 years, ending March 31, 2028

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The National Trade Corridors Fund (NTCF) helps fund infrastructure projects in Canada. Infrastructure projects could include work to airports, ports, railways, transportation facilities, and access roads.

More Info

National Housing Strategy Demonstrations Initiative

Amount:

No specific amount specified

Type of Program:

Description:

The National Housing Strategy Demonstrations Initiative funds the demonstration of solutions that support housing affordability in real environments. Solutions support National Housing Supply priority areas and groups and outcomes, focusing on solutions with evidence of positive impact.

More Info

Housing Supply Challenge

Amount:

$300 million in funding over 5 years; successful submissions receive funding to prototype or incubate their proposal, and selected finalists share a pool of additional funding to implement their solutions

Type of Program:

Competition, Grant

Description:

The Housing Supply Challenge invites citizens, stakeholders, and experts to
propose solutions to the barriers to new housing supply. The challenge
will distribute $300 million in funding over 5 years.
Successful submissions that address barriers to supply will receive funding to
prototype or incubate their proposal. Following the prototype stage, a number
of selected finalists will share a pool of additional funding to implement
their proposed solutions.

More Info

FedDev Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative for Northern Ontario

Amount:

$500,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative provides support to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, the use of 3D printing, mass timber construction, panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices.

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Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF)

Amount:

Up to 50% for provinces; up to 40% for municipalities and not-for-profit organizations in provinces; up to 75% for territories; up to 100% for Indigenous Recipients; up to 25% for for-profit private sector organizations, of the total eligible expenditures per project

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Disaster Mitigation and Adaption Fund (DMAF) is a national, competitive, and merit-based contribution program intended to support public infrastructure projects designed to mitigate current and future climate-related risks and disasters triggered by climate change, such as floods, wildland fires, droughts and seismic events.

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CanNor Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative

Amount:

no fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative provides support to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, the use of 3D printing, mass timber construction, panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices.

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Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund

Amount:

Direct Delivery stream: up to $1 billion over eight years; projects at least $1 million and not more than $100 million in total eligible costs (above $100 million case-by-case); PT Agreement stream: $5 billion over 10 years with no maximum total eligible cost per project; total federal funding may cover up to 100% of total eligible project costs, subject to program cost-share limits

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

CHIF aims to accelerate the construction and upgrading of housing-enabling drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste infrastructure, directly supporting the creation of new homes and increasing densification.

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Affordable Housing Innovation Fund

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant, Loan

Description:

Funding for innovative housing providers driving innovation across the housing continuum.
The Affordable Housing Innovation Fund supports new ideas that will drive change and disrupt the industry — ideas and approaches that will evolve the affordable housing sector and create the next generation of housing in Canada.

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ACOA Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative

Amount:

no fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Regional Homebuilding Innovation Initiative provides support to pursue new approaches for building houses, including designing and upscaling modular homes, the use of 3D printing, panelized construction, as well as implementing net-zero and climate resilient homebuilding practices.

More Info

Provincial Government Grants for Construction & Real Estate:

Workplace Innovation Fund

Amount:

Up to $5 million in project funding per project, to a maximum of $10 million per Primary Applicant over the Program (non-repayable contributions; applicant must contribute 20% towards project costs)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Workplace Innovation Fund supports key sectors to adopt new technology and processes to address labour shortages and increase productivity to help with workforce challenges.
Both private and not-for-profit/non-profit organizations are eligible to apply for up to $5 million in project funding.

More Info

Urban Development Incentives

Amount:

$50,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The City of Saint John offers financial incentives to undertake development projects on the Central Peninsula. The Central Peninsula includes the Uptown, South End, and Waterloo Village.

More Info

The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF)

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Investment

Description:

The Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund was created by the City of Calgary in 2018 with a mandate to accelerate diversification and strengthen our economy.
We’re shaping Calgary’s economic future by finding opportunities with the greatest potential benefit to the city, fuelling those opportunities with capital and fostering their success by integrating each investment into a network of resources and people.

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Talent Development – Internship Program (TDI)

Amount:

Up to $10,000 of matched funding per four-month internship, to a maximum of $20,000 per company (1:1 match by the SME)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Talent Development – Internship Program (TDI) provides support for recent undergraduate or Master’s graduates, to work on industry- driven projects related to the six CIT Critical Technology areas: 5G and advanced networks, AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Quantum, and Robotics, in any one of the four key sector areas: Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction, Mining. Companies can tap into world-class talent coming out of Ontario’s publicly funded post-secondary institutions and strengthen their capacity to develop new products, services and processes, while interns receive hands-on industry experience in areas such as software and hardware development, artificial intelligence, and data analytics.

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Storefront Refresh Grant

Amount:

Matching reimbursement grant of 50 per cent of the project total to a maximum of $1,000 per building

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

For commercial buildings and businesses located or planning to locate in Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), the City offers the following grants:
This is a matching reimbursement grant for small exterior renovations, up to a maximum of $1000 per building.

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Storefront Improvement Grant

Amount:

Matching reimbursement grant of up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $25,000 for a mid-block building, or for a corner building $50,000 if both facades facing public sidewalks are active ($25,000 / facade) or $30,000 if one facade is active ($25,000 active, $5,000 inactive)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

For commercial buildings and businesses located or planning to locate in Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), the City offers the following grants:
This is a matching reimbursement grant for large, significant exterior renovations, up to 50% of project costs.

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Sector Adoption Program

Amount:

$1,000,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

As part of the broader Critical Industrial Technologies initiative, the Sector Adoption (SA) Program is a challenge based multi-partner program that drives significant impact and advancement of a whole sector.

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Save on Energy XLerate Program

Amount:

Project incentives: $300/MWh of verified first-year electricity savings, up to 75% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $15 million per project; Project Feasibility Study (PFS): 50% of eligible study costs, up to the lesser of $100,000 or 10% of the project’s estimated eligible costs

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Save on Energy XLerate Program is a streamlined, pay-for-performance initiative that provides organizations across Ontario in the industrial, municipal, institutional, and healthcare sectors with a simplified approach to undertaking large-scale energy-efficiency projects. This program is supported by the Ontario government.

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Save on Energy – Retrofit Program

Amount:

Up to 50% of eligible project costs (Prescriptive set incentives or Custom incentives from verified kWh/kW peak reductions); double incentive rate for most non-lighting projects in electricity-constrained areas, capped at 50% of eligible project costs; solar PV $1,000/kW-DC for systems ≤10 kW-DC or $770/kW-AC for systems >10 kW-AC up to 1 MW-AC

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

We help businesses by providing financial incentives to upgrade to more energy-efficient equipment that can reduce energy bills, lower carbon footprints and enhance staff comfort.
Projects that achieve sustainable, measurable reductions in electricity use may be eligible for the Save on Energy Retrofit Program.

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Save on Energy – Energy Performance Program

Amount:

Pay-for-performance incentive of $0.30/kWh for summer peak electricity savings and $0.08/kWh for non-summer peak savings, paid annually over three years (enrolments on or after January 1, 2025)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Energy Performance Program (EPP) rewards customers who are able to make behavioural and operational changes that support capital investment projects, enabling them to grow their energy savings year over year.

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Revitalizing Hamilton Tax Increment Grant Program

Amount:

Maximum annual Grant as a percentage of actual municipal tax increment: Revitalization Projects: Year 1 100%, Year 2 75%, Year 3 50%, Year 4 25%; Revitalization Projects with Public Parking: Year 1 100%, Year 2 75%, Year 3 75%, Year 4 50%; Enhanced Revitalization Projects: 100% in each of Years 1 to 4. Total Grant over the four-year term not to exceed the total cost of the Site’s improvement/development

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Revitalizing Hamilton Tax Increment Grant Program provides financial incentives to property owners within strategic commercial districts to develop, redevelop, or improve properties and buildings. The program aims to support the broader revitalization of these districts while generating new municipal property tax revenue through increased property assessments.

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Revitalization Extensive Project Fund (REPF)

Amount:

Funding for larger scale projects from $20,001 up to $50,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Revitalization Extensive Project Fund (REPF) offers applicants the opportunity to apply for funding for larger-scale projects in Revitalization Areas.

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Residential Development Charges Grant

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Residential Development Charges Grant program is designed to encourage private sector investment in residential property development in the Downtown and Old East Village areas. A grant, equal to a rebate of residential Development Charges (DCs), is offered for each new residential unit constructed.

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Regional Housing First Program

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Regional Housing First Program (RHFP) will increase the creation of affordable rental housing, including addressing the needs of people experiencing homelessness in Greater Victoria. The program is the result of a partnering agreement between the Capital Regional District (CRD), BC Housing and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Through RHFP, BC Housing, the CRD and CMHC will invest to develop and acquire new affordable housing units to be owned by the CRD or Provincial Rental Housing Corporation (PRHC). Those units will be operated by successful project proponents or non-profit partners. CRD and BC Housing will also seek partnership opportunities to further increase the supply of affordable rental housing within the capital region.

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Public Washrooms Accessibility Grant

Amount:

No specific amount specified

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Public Washroom Accessibility Grant is a part of the Citywide Public Washroom Strategy which aims to improve access to safer and cleaner washrooms for all Edmontonians and visitors.
In areas or districts where public washrooms are not easily accessible, the City recognizes that businesses and Business Improvement Areas (BIAs), as well as not-for-profit organizations, can play a significant role in improving access to washrooms for Edmontonians by opening their washrooms to non-paying patrons.

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Property Assessment Services – Housing Development Incentive Program

Amount:

no fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Housing Development Incentive Program consists of phasing-in assessment values on newly constructed apartment buildings with two or more units and existing buildings being refurbished to add more rental units.

The program is for developers and builders of multi-family dwellings aimed at the creation of additional rental units within the province of New Brunswick.

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Opportunity Response Program

Amount:

Up to 50% of the project costs to a maximum of $30,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Opportunity Response (OR) program is designed to fund projects that help create unique spaces or benefits for the public realm. The OR program operates in the Downtown, Riversdale, Broadway, and Sutherland BID’s and can fund up to 50% of the project costs to a maximum of $30,000 in partnership with BID’s, businesses, and/or other organizations.

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Office-to-Residential Construction Conversion Grant

Amount:

Maximum grant of $35,000 per unit (per-unit grant functioning as a forgivable loan), subject to available funding

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Office-to-Residential (OTR) Construction Conversion Grant offers a per-unit incentive grant, functioning as a forgivable loan, for eligible office-to-residential conversion projects

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LEED Grant Program

Amount:

City shares 50/50 the incremental construction cost (to a maximum as per Table 1: 0.50% Certified, 1.5% Silver, 2.5% Gold, 4% Platinum), consultation, energy modeling and certification fees, paid as a five-year grant not exceeding 75% of the municipal realty tax increase

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Encourages sustainable industrial, commercial, mixed-use, and multi-unit residential construction* and land development in urban areas.
The City of Hamilton will equally share the incremental construction costs, consultation, energy modelling, and certification fees with applicants to achieve LEED certification.

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Land for Housing Program

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

In-Kind Support

Description:

The Land for Housing Program helps create affordable housing. Private developers and community housing developers can apply for provincially owned land available through the Land for Housing Program.
Apply for land available through the Land for Housing Program to help offset development costs of creating affordable housing.

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Interior Building Improvement Grant

Amount:

$20,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This is a matching reimbursement grant for interior renovations

More Info

Indigenous Housing Grant Stream

Amount:

Up to 25% of the total capital costs associated with the affordable housing component of a development; the City will consider funding up to 40% of said costs for affordable rental projects that meet the additional requirements (homeownership proposals capped at 25%)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Indigenous Housing stream is intended to support Indigenous organizations that are pursuing affordable housing within the City of Edmonton, through the provision of limited capital funding to assist Indigenous organizations in constructing new affordable housing units, converting an existing non-residential building to affordable housing or rehabilitating existing affordable housing units.

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Indigenous Housing Fund (IHF)

Amount:

No specific amount specified

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Government of British Columbia created the Indigenous Housing Fund (IHF) in 2018. This fund helps build affordable rental homes for Indigenous families, Elders, individuals, and people with disabilities.

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Housing Initiatives Fund

Amount:

Shovel-ready projects: up to $100,000 for each unit up to a maximum of $1,000,000; project concepts: up to $20,000; funding for rural private homeowners constructing rental units cannot exceed 50 per cent of the project costs

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Housing Initiatives Fund provides funding for affordable rental housing projects across the Yukon.

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Housing Accelerator Fund Rental Housing Grant

Amount:

$10,000-20,000 per newly developed affordable rental housing unit, for a maximum of 20 units per application

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program provides $10,000-20,000 per newly developed affordable rental housing unit to non-profit and private sector developers. Funding for a maximum of 20 units per application is available.

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Heritage NL Structure Designation

Amount:

No specific amount specified

Type of Program:

In-Kind Support

Description:

Heritage NL designates what it deems to be the best examples of heritage structures in the province – those it finds to be worthy of commemoration and protection. Accepted properties have the status of provincially-designated Registered Heritage Structures.
Legal owners of properties can apply for designation through Heritage NL.

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Heritage NL Revitalization Grant

Amount:

Project proposals in the $30,000 to $40,000 range, funded on a 50/50 cost shared basis: 50% of eligible expenses for exterior work using traditional materials, and costs for repair/replacement of historic windows covered to 80%

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

Heritage NL is looking for projects that blend the restoration of a provincially-designated Registered Heritage Structure with community planning workshops, architectural history research, and opportunities for transmission of traditional skills related to conservation of the site or the site’s history. The grant is intended to direct funding to projects that demonstrate community value as well as a need for material conservation.

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Heritage NL Maintenance Grants

Amount:

50% of eligible expenses for exterior work using traditional materials, with costs for repair/replacement to historic windows covered to 80%, both to a maximum of $3,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

All provincially-designated Registered Heritage Structures are eligible to apply for a Maintenance Grant once every three (3) years, dated from the last payment of a grant for that property. Maintenance grants cover 50% of eligible expenses for exterior work using traditional materials, with costs for repair/replacement to historic windows covered to 80%, both to a maximum of $3,000.

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Heritage Incentives Program

Amount:

$25,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Heritage Incentives Program provides matching grants (50 per cent) of up to $15,000 for residential properties and $25,000 for commercial properties to complete exterior conservation work on a municipally registered heritage property.

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Heritage Financial Incentive

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The City of St. John’s aims to conserve significant heritage resources including buildings and streetscapes. The Heritage Financial Incentives Program assists property owners to maintain designated heritage buildings and homes. Properties in the City’s Heritage Areas will also be considered.

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Hamilton Heritage Revitalization Grant Program

Amount:

Category A (Single-Detached, Semi-Detached, Duplex, Triplex, Fourplex, Street Townhouse and Multiple Dwelling Townhouse residential): grant of up to $1,500 for Eligible Reports and matching grant of up to $10,000 for Eligible Work; Category B (all other uses): grant of up to $20,000 for Eligible Reports and matching grant of up to $150,000 for Eligible Work – per municipal address

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Heritage Revitalization Grant Program provides financial assistance in the form of a Grant to assist in conserving, developing, and re-using heritage properties. This Program will apply City-wide for those properties designated under Part IV or Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act.

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HAF Modular and Manufactured Grant Program

Amount:

Grants of up to $20,000 per unit for projects receiving funding under other HAF initiatives, up to $10,000 per unit for projects not receiving funding under other HAF initiatives, and $5,000 per unit for projects funded under the HAF Missing Middle Intensification (Infill and ADU) grant program; funding for a maximum of 10 units per application

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The City of Fredericton’s Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Modular and Manufactured Housing Grant program (the “Program”) provides grants to facilitate the use of modular or manufactured construction for new rental or home ownership units. It is intended to further reduce the cost of construction for new housing units and provide an opportunity to further grow the missing middle housing option. Both non- profit and private sector developers as defined below are eligible for funding under the Program subject to Program guidelines.

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HAF Missing Middle Intensification Grant

Amount:

$15,000 per net new unit

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The goal of the Housing Accelerator Fund Middle Intensification (Infill and ADU) Grant Program is to develop new dwelling units on properties containing existing buildings in the City of Fredericton (“City”) during the Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) funding period (2024-2026).
This Program applies to landowners constructing an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or a net new unit on a property containing an existing building.

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Growth Areas Housing Grant Program

Amount:

$5,000 for a single unit dwelling; $10,000 per dwelling unit for a two unit, semi-detached, three unit, townhouse or rowhouse dwelling; $15,000 per dwelling unit for a multiple unit dwelling; a total of 10 dwelling units may be approved per application, not to exceed $150,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The main purpose of the HAF Growth Areas Housing Grant Program is to incentivize, by way of grants, the development of new housing in Development Charge Areas over the CMHC, HAF funding period (2023 – 2026). The HAF Growth Areas Housing Grant Program includes a per-door incentive grant for landowners and developers in Development Charge Areas to be disbursed upon the successful completion of the building’s foundation.

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Future Ready (FR) program

Amount:

Up to $10,000 of matched funding per company (1:1 match by the SME)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Future Ready (FR) program provides support for Ontario-based SMEs working in CIT’s four key sectors (Advanced Manufacturing, Construction, Agri-food and Mining) to upskill/reskill current employees on Critical Technologies (5G and advanced networks, AI, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Quantum,
and Robotics) to support the company’s adoption of Critical Technologies and commercialization of new products and services. Under this program eligible SMEs receive support to hire an external third-party consultant to train their employees in the adoption and implementation of these Critical Technologies.

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Enbridge Gas New Construction: Savings by Design Residential

Amount:

Incentives of $1,650 per home for up to 50 homes (ENERGY STAR for New Homes); NZER discovery home incentive of $15,000 plus free expert support (Integrated design process workshop: No cost—a $30,000 value)

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

The Savings by Design Residential program gives builders and developers free access to industry experts and energy modelling to build a Net Zero Energy Ready discovery home plus qualify for incentives to build to ENERGY STAR© for New Homes standards.

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Enbridge Gas Building Automation: Affordable Multi-Family Housing Program, Commercial Custom Retrofit Program, and Industrial Custom Engineering Program

Amount:

Up to 50 percent of incremental project costs (Commercial Custom Retrofit Program; Industrial Custom Engineering Program); up to $200,000 in incentives for eligible affordable housing buildings (Affordable Multi-Family Housing Program)

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

Whether you run a large office building or affordable housing, fluctuating occupancy levels, increased ventilation requirements and tighter budgets are challenging owners and energy managers to reassess control of indoor spaces.
A building automation system (BAS) is an efficient way to increase a building’s flexibility to respond to a variety of operating conditions.

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Enbridge Gas Audits, Studies & Assessments: Industrial Studies & Assessments

Amount:

Complimentary site walkthrough, plus up to 50 percent of costs for energy assessments recommended by an Advisor, to an energy assessment maximum of $6,000 (300k – 3M previous year consumption) or $10,000 (3M – 10 M); individually assessed for 100k – 300k and 10M or greater

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

Our Energy Solutions Advisors will conduct a complimentary site walkthrough to help identify opportunities. Incentives are also available to cover up to 50 percent of costs for energy assessments recommended by an Advisor.

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Economic Development & Growth in Employment (EDGE) Incentive Program

Amount:

100 per cent of the increase in the municipal taxes attributable to the eligible development over a five-year period (temporarily increased from 60 per cent of the Municipal Tax Increment); up to seven years when combined with Brownfield Remediation Tax Assistance

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Economic Development and Growth in Employment (EDGE) Incentive Program supports new construction or major renovation of buildings in targeted employment sectors. The program provides tax increment equivalent grants, whereby the City refunds a portion of the increase in property taxes that results from new development or redevelopments.

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Downtown Densification Grant Program

Amount:

$20,000 per new dwelling unit, to a maximum of $300,000 per development (a total of 15 new dwelling units)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The main purpose of the Accelerator Funding for Downtown Densification Grant Program is to incentivize, by way of grants, the development of new housing developments in Downtown Moncton over the HAF funding period (2023-2026). The program includes a per-door incentive grant for new dwelling units disbursed upon the successful completion of the building’s foundation.

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Development Incentive Program

Amount:

$200,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

This program offers support of up to a maximum for constructing new commercial buildings, and support constructing new mixed-use developments.

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Development and Commercialization Program

Amount:

$200,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Development and Commercialization (DC) Program supports the development and commercialization of Ontario made products and services that integrate/adopt Critical Technologies (5G and advanced networks, AI, blockchain, robotics, quantum, cybersecurity) related to four key sectors: Advanced Manufacturing, Agri-Food, Construction and Mining.

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Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Interior Grant – Standalone Commercial Buildings

Amount:

$10,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.
Improvements to an underutilized ground floor or vacant commercial interior space.

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Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Interior Grant – Small Commercial Centre

Amount:

$20,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Improvements to an underutilized ground floor or vacant commercial interior space.

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Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Exterior Grant – Standalone Commercial Buildings

Amount:

$15,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Exterior improvements to active storefronts

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Corner Store Grants – Corner Store Exterior Grant – Small Commercial Centre

Amount:

$60,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Corner Store grant program is targeted to Neighbourhood Commercial properties or properties that meet the commercial needs of local residents.

Exterior improvements to active storefronts.

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Community Housing Fund (CHF)

Amount:

$3.3-billion program that will build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with low or moderate incomes

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Government of British Columbia created the Community Housing Fund (CHF) in 2018. This fund helps build rental homes for people, including families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
The CHF is a $3.3‑billion program that will build more than 20,000 affordable rental homes for people with low or moderate incomes.

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Commercial Vacancy Assistance (CVA) Program

Amount:

50% matching grant: up to $5,000 for lease terms between three months and just under six months; up to $10,000 for lease terms of six months or longer

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Commercial Vacancy Assistance (CVA) Program will provide financial assistance in the
form of a Grant to new permanent or ‘pop­up’ commercial tenants of a presently vacant at, or
below grade, commercial space so as to make permanent interior improvements for the
purposes of improving the attractiveness and usability of the space for the intended
commercial use. To be eligible, the intended commercial use must be accessible to the public/
customers and may include, but not be limited to, retail uses, artists studios/galleries
containing a retail component, personal service businesses, microbreweries, commercial
entertainment uses, commercial recreation uses and/or dine-in or take-out restaurants

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Commercial District Revitalization Grant Program

Amount:

50% of Eligible Costs for Eligible Improvements, to a maximum of $20,000 for each Eligible Ground Floor Unit or $25,000 for each corner Eligible Ground Floor Unit (frontage on two public streets); cap applies per Site within any rolling five-year period

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Commercial District Revitalization Grant Program provides financial support for permanent improvements to commercial or mixed-use properties within Hamilton’s designated commercial districts. The program focuses on enhancing exterior building façades, improving accessibility to meet AODA standards, upgrading property appearance and functionality with an emphasis on environmental sustainability, and allowing limited interior mechanical or ventilation improvements for restaurants.

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Commercial District Housing Opportunities Program

Amount:

The lesser of $1,000,000 or 25% of the construction budget for the development (maximum loan)

Type of Program:

Loan

Description:

The Commercial District Housing Opportunities Loan Program provides financial assistance through low-interest loans to encourage the development and improvement of dwelling units. The program aims to create new or upgraded housing options that support local commercial district populations and strengthen demand for nearby businesses and services.

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Business Improvement Area Missing Middle Residential Infill Grant Program

Amount:

$15,000 per new dwelling unit, not to exceed $150,000 per development (a total of 10 new dwelling units)

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The main purpose of the Business Improvement Area Missing Middle Residential Infill Grant Program is to incentivize, by way of grants, the development of new housing developments within Moncton’s Business Improvement Area (BIA) over the HAF funding period (2023-2026). The program includes a per-door incentive grant for new dwelling units disbursed upon the successful completion of the building’s foundation.

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Beautification Grant Program

Amount:

35% of the cost of the eligible work completed, including HST, to a maximum of $4,000; where the application is for both a front and flankage building façade, 35% to a maximum of $6,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The City of Saint John offers residents and property owners in the Old North End and Douglas Avenue Urban Beautification Incentives to keep their buildings attractive. The grant offers 35% of the cost of improving exterior front facades and yards up to a maximum of $4,000, or $6,000 for corner lots.

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Barton / Kenilworth Tax Increment Grant (BKTIG) Program

Amount:

Maximum annual Grant as a percentage of actual municipal tax increment generated from improvement/development: Years 1–5: 100%; Year 6: 80%; Year 7: 60%; Year 8: 40%; Year 9: 20%; total Grant over the maximum nine-year term not to exceed the total cost of the Site’s improvement/development

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Barton/Kenilworth Tax Increment Grant Program provides financial incentives to property owners along the Barton Street East and Kenilworth Avenue North commercial corridors to develop, redevelop, or improve properties and buildings including designated heritage sites. The program supports the broader revitalization of these districts while generating new municipal property tax revenue through increased property assessments.

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Barton / Kenilworth Revitalization Grant (BKRG) Program

Amount:

Cost-sharing grants for eligible projects, with a maximum grant amount of $75,000

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Barton/Kenilworth Revitalization Grant Program is designed to support property development and enhance the maintenance, functionality, viability, accessibility, and visual appeal of existing commercial, mixed-use, multi-residential, and institutional buildings within the Barton Street East and Kenilworth Avenue North commercial corridors, as identified in the Barton and Kenilworth Commercial Corridors Study.

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Atlin Capital Program

Amount:

Up to $75,000 grant to a maximum of 90% of the eligible project budget; or up to $150,000 grant to a maximum of 75% of the eligible project budget

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Atlin Capital program provides grant funding to support community infrastructure projects that will strengthen the local and regional economy. The program supports public multi-use facilities or capital investments that drive revenue and job creation and will provide a long-term asset for the community of Atlin.

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Atlin Business Façade Improvement Program

Amount:

Up to 75% to a maximum of $5,000 per façade improvement project each calendar year (one-time grant to a maximum of $5,000 per building), paid as a reimbursement grant (rebate)

Type of Program:

Grant, Rebate

Description:

The Atlin Business Façade Improvement program provides grant funding for local businesses and not-for-profits to enhance businesses façades, catalyzing economic development in the community. The grant funding provides a rebate to business/building owners to invest in aesthetic improvements to storefronts that encourages increased walk-in traffic and patronage of commercial establishments.

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Affordable Rental Housing Program – Private Sector Stream

Amount:

Forgivable loan of $55,000-$95,000 per unit (Private Sector Stream), on the first 10 units of a project and 50 per cent of the units thereafter, up to the maximum of 20 funded units

Type of Program:

Loan, Grant

Description:

The Affordable Rental Housing Program (ARHP) provides one-time capital funding in the form of a forgivable loan to assist in the creation of affordable rental housing units throughout the province.
There are two distinct application streams – the Private Sector Stream and the Community Housing Sector Stream. Successful proponents will own and manage their project and rent to lower income households at or below rates established by NLHC.

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Affordable Multi-Family Housing Program

Amount:

Energy assessments: up to $8,000 per building, to a maximum of $40,000 per housing provider per year; custom incentives: $2.50/m3 of natural gas saved, up to 85% of eligible energy-efficiency upgrade costs, to a maximum of $200,000 per project; plus per-unit prescriptive equipment incentives and free in-suite heat reflector panels

Type of Program:

Grant, In-Kind Support

Description:

The Affordable Housing Multi-Residential Program helps eligible housing providers make energy-efficiency upgrades with incentives1 and support from an Energy Solutions Advisor, from project planning through to incentive payment.

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Affordable Housing Property Tax Adjustment

Amount:

Reduction of municipal property tax over a 10-year period: 90 per cent in years one and two, 75 per cent in years three and four, 60 per cent in years five and six, 45 per cent in years seven and eight, 30 per cent in years nine and 10

Type of Program:

Tax Credit

Description:

The Affordable Housing Property Tax Adjustment Policy supports the development of new affordable housing by reducing municipal property taxes over a 10-year period.
Developers who create four or more new affordable housing dwelling units and agree to maintain affordability for at least 10 years may be eligible for this program.

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Affordable Housing Permit and Community Planning Fees Grant

Amount:

No fixed amount

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The purpose of the Affordable Housing Permit and Community Planning Fee Grant is to facilitate the
development of Deeply Affordable Housing units in the City of Fredericton by a charitable or non-profit
organization or other incorporated entity. The Program helps eligible applicants decrease project
development costs by providing grants equal to the costs of municipal community planning fees and
municipal building and plumbing permit fees.
The grant may also help applicants obtain funding from federal and/or provincial housing programs as
these often require partnerships with other levels of government.

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Affordable Housing Now: Capital Grants

Amount:

$250,000.00

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

Affordable Housing Now provides eligible projects with support through two funding streams: Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Grants and Capital Grants.

The Affordable Housing Now Program provides support for the development of affordable rental housing that is also eligible through a funding program of the National Housing Strategy.

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Affordable Housing Grant for New Developments

Amount:

A grant equaling up to 100% of the fees and costs for building and development permits, demolition permits, subdivision approvals, Municipal Plan and Zoning By-law amendments, variances and Planning Advisory Committee applications, based on prioritization scoring (maximum 450 points) and prorated by the percentage of the building that includes affordable or sleeping units; 100% for emergency housing

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The principal purpose of the Affordable Housing – Building Permit and Planning Fee Equivalent Grant Policy – New Construction is to increase the affordable housing stock in the city. The policy provides assistance to eligible applicants by reducing property improvement costs through the provision of grants equal in amount to fees/costs related to development and building permits, demolition permits, subdivision applications, Municipal Plan and Zoning By-law amendments, and variances and other Planning Advisory Committee applications.

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Affordable Housing Grant for Existing Affordable Housing

Amount:

Grant equal to up to 100% of the fees and costs for building and development permits, demolition permits and variances, based on a prioritization score of up to 400 points and prorated by the percentage of the building with affordable or sleeping units; 100% of these fees for emergency housing

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The principal purpose of the Affordable Housing – Building Permit and Planning Fee Equivalent Grant Policy – Repair and Renewal is to assist affordable housing proponents with the repair and renewal of existing affordable housing stock. The policy provides assistance to eligible applicants by reducing property improvement costs through the provision of grants equal in amount to fees/costs related to development and building permits, demolition permits, and variance applications.

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Affordable Housing Grant

Amount:

Tier 1: $20,000 per Affordable Housing Dwelling Unit, up to a maximum of $200,000 per project; Tier 2: $18,000 per Affordable Housing Dwelling Unit, up to a maximum of $160,000 per project

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Affordable Housing Grant Policy supports the development of new affordable housing within the municipality by offering a one-time grant to eligible property owners.

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Affordable Housing Development Program

Amount:

Forgivable loans for up to 50% of the rental units in a project; for projects with fewer than 10 rental units, up to 100% of the units

Type of Program:

Loan

Description:

The Affordable Housing Development Program supports the creation of affordable housing. Private developers and community housing developers can apply for forgivable loans from the Affordable Housing Development Program to help fund the construction of new housing or the conversion of non-residential buildings. Both must include affordable rental units for households with low to moderate income.

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Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program

Amount:

A grant in the amount of $10,000, disbursed upon approval of the Application after the project’s final inspection, with one application per property

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The main purpose of the HAF – Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program is to incentivize, by way of grants, the development of new dwelling units in low density areas over the CMHC, HAF funding period (2023 – 2026). The HAF – Accessory Dwelling Unit Grant Program includes an incentive grant for landowners to be disbursed upon the final inspection of the building.

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Aboriginal Business Investment Fund

Amount:

Grants of a minimum of $150,000 to a maximum of $750,000, covering up to 100% of eligible costs, to support capital costs related to Indigenous community-owned economic development projects

Type of Program:

Grant

Description:

The Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) can partially or fully fund capital costs for Indigenous community-owned economic development projects that are shovel-ready within the funding year, meaning they are prepared to begin construction or operations with the necessary planning, approvals and financing in place.
From building new facilities and infrastructure to purchasing essential equipment, ABIF helps communities establish, expand and strengthen business operations.

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Maurice

About the author

Maurice

Maurice (Moe) Muise learned the ins-and-outs of government while an employee of the Government of Canada in Ottawa for 10 years. His current focus is helping small businesses in Canada to identify and maximize funding to grow their business.

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