About the grant
The Downtown business improvement grant helps community groups, non-profits, and local businesses bring people to the downtown core. Whether you are planning a seasonal market, a public art display, a wellness workshop, or a neighbourhood festival, this grant supports projects that create lasting community impact and encourage local spending.
The greater downtown area covers the block bounded by Mercer Street to the west, Tamsin Street to the east, Water Street to the north, and Church Street to the south. We are especially looking for projects that activate underused public spaces and make the downtown feel safer and more welcoming year-round.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants include:
- Registered non-profit organizations and charities
- Community associations and neighbourhood groups
- Member businesses of the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area.
Each organization may submit only one application per intake period. However, a single application can cover multiple locations, partner groups, or program components as long as they all take place within the downtown boundary.
Funding available
We offer up to $30,000 per eligible initiative. The City will cover up to 50 per cent of the total eligible project costs. You must provide the remaining 50 per cent in cash or confirmed sponsorship. In-kind donations do not count toward your share of the match.
Grants are strictly for initiative delivery. We do not fund capital expenses (like permanent construction or equipment purchases) or ongoing operational costs (such as rent, utilities, or staff salaries). Eligible costs include marketing, temporary rentals, permits, insurance, artist fees, and direct event logistics.
Project window and timeline
Approved projects must run between September 1, 2026, and August 31, 2027. Please review the application schedule below:
- April 1, 2026: Expressions of Interest open
- May 15, 2026: EOI submission deadline
- June 30, 2026: Shortlisted applicants invited to submit a full application
- July 31, 2026: Full application deadline
- August 31, 2026: Grant recipients announced
- October 15, 2027: Final report and financial statement due (within 60 days of project completion)
Projects receiving support from the City's Heritage conservation grants or the Facade improvement assistance program are not eligible for this grant.
What we are looking for
Your project should strengthen the downtown economy, build community connections, and encourage visitors to stay longer. We prioritize initiatives that:
- Take place in publicly accessible spaces and remain open to all residents
- Feature free or low-cost admission to ensure broad participation
- Collaborate with multiple local partners, such as businesses, cultural groups, or the downtown BIA
- Include a clear plan for how the initiative will continue or evolve after the grant period ends
Common project ideas include pop-up performance stages, night markets, community art installations, weekly wellness sessions, maker spaces, and seasonal festivals. If you are unsure whether your idea fits, please contact our Economic Development team for a pre-application consultation.
How applications are reviewed
Our review panel is made up of City staff and representatives from the Downtown Wrenford BIA. Applications are scored out of 100 per cent based on the following criteria:
- Community benefit and engagement (25 per cent): How well does the project serve local residents and attract visitors?
- Financial sustainability (20 per cent): Is the budget realistic, and do you have a plan to fund the project beyond this grant?
- Collaboration and partnerships (15 per cent): Are you working with other organizations, businesses, or community groups?
- Accessibility and inclusion (15 per cent): Does the project remove barriers and welcome diverse audiences?
- Feasibility and logistics (15 per cent): Can the project be delivered safely and on time?
- Marketing and outreach (5 per cent): How will you promote the event to the public?
- Risk management (5 per cent): Do you have a clear safety and contingency plan?
- Overall merit (5 per cent): Does the project align with the downtown revitalization strategy?
Next steps
All applicants must start by submitting an Expression of Interest. Only shortlisted groups will be invited to complete the full application form.
Download the grant guidelines to review the full criteria, budget templates, and application forms. If you have questions about eligibility or your project concept, email [email protected] or book a virtual meeting with an Economic Development Officer.