RFAs: Vacant and Underutilized Properties Conversion/Expansion Grant Program (Canada)

The focus areas of this program include converting vacant buildings that have been unoccupied for at least twelve months, revitalizing underutilized properties, pre-consultation with the Community Improvement Program Administrator, ensuring compliance with municipal by-laws, prioritizing improvement projects within Commercial Focus Areas, and contributing to the overall quality of the streetscape. Eligible applicants may also coordinate their projects with Façade and Signage Improvement Grants, Accessibility Improvement Grant, and Agri-Business Innovation Grant if applicable.

Funding is provided on a cost-sharing basis, with the Municipality covering 50 percent of the total eligible project cost, excluding taxes, up to a maximum of $7,000. Applicants are required to provide a minimum 50 percent cash contribution and ensure that all improvements are properly documented through original invoices or proofs of payment.

Eligible applicants include property owners of commercial, industrial, institutional, or agricultural properties located within the Community Improvement Project Area. Projects must comply with zoning requirements, municipal by-laws, and any necessary permits, including Building or Sign Permits, before work begins. Improvements requiring a variance are only considered under unique circumstances not caused by the applicant. Properties with outstanding tax arrears or unresolved work orders are ineligible.

Projects must be completed by the approved deadline, with extensions granted only if prior approval is received. All work must not interfere with pedestrian safety or sidewalk maintenance, and for buildings designated under Part IV or Part V of the Ontario Heritage Act, approval from the Huron East Heritage Committee is required. Applicants carrying out the work themselves may include only material costs, not labor, in the eligible project costs.

For more information, visit Municipality of Huron East.