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The 2023 application deadline is Friday, November 17th.
The Municipality of North Perth has developed a Façade Improvement Program for businesses operating in the downtowns of Listowel, Atwood, and Monkton. This program has been designed to alleviate the costs of property renovations and improve the quality of our downtowns. The Municipality will provide a grant covering 50% of eligible costs to a maximum contribution of $7,500. For those businesses interested in applying, please review the program requirements and contact the Economic Development Coordinator.
- View the Downtown Commercial Design Guidelines document.
- View the Façade Improvement Program document.
- Download the Façade Improvement Program Application Form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Façade Improvement Program? |
At this time, we are only accepting applications from property and business owners in the downtowns of Listowel, Atwood and Monkton. The downtown boundaries can be found within the program package. The Façade Improvement Program will be used to enhance the built environment within these key areas to help foster economic growth in North Perth. Because North Perth’s downtown communities vary in size and activity, funding will be distributed between the three downtown communities as such:
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What projects are eligible for the Façade Improvement Program? |
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Can I use this funding to improve or repair upper-story units above commercial properties? |
This funding can only be used for exterior renovations. This may include improvements made to upper-story units in the downtowns, such as replacing windows or renovating the upper faceplate. However, this program does not include interior renovations of any kind. |
When can I apply for the Façade Improvement Program? |
The Municipality of North Perth plans to offer this program annually. The Municipality will offer two intake periods each year:
Applicants will have the opportunity to apply for Intake #1 starting February 1st. During Intake #1, the funding for this program will be divided as follows:
Please note that this distribution of funding will only apply during Intake #1. Intake #2 will begin June 1st, at which time project funding will become available to businesses in all three downtown communities. Funds will be awarded as applications are received. APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN. |
Is there a fee to apply? |
There is no fee to apply for the FIP. However, if approved, applicants may be required to get permits depending on the project. FIP funding will not cover such fees associated with project approval. Applicants may be asked to provide a detailed design as part of the application package. Costs associated with the design will not be covered unless the application is approved and the costs are deemed reasonable. HST is also ineligible for FIP funding. |
Can I apply if I do not own the property that my business operates in? |
Yes. If you operate a business in the downtown boundaries but are not the property owner, you can still apply for program funding as long as you provide written authorization from the property owner (see application). |
Is there a deadline for project completion? |
Projects must begin within 6 months of approval and must be complete within 12 months of approval. If applicants do not meet either of these deadlines, the Municipality may choose to deduct 25% of the grant awarded to the applicant. |
When will I receive the grant money? |
The Municipality will provide grants on a one-time basis upon completion of the proposed project, provided it meets the conditions agreed upon in the original application approved by the Council delegate. It is the property owner’s responsibility to arrange an inspection with the Municipality. Applicants must submit original invoices. Funds will not be processed without proof of payment for work completed. Applicants must notify the Municipality during the agreement signing if they cannot submit the final payment for the completed project without the assistance of the grant money. An agreement may be struck where the Municipality pays the contractor directly with a portion of the grant. The applicant must submit a letter of understanding from the contractor with the application. |
When will I be informed if my project is approved? |
Applicants will be notified in writing regarding the status of their application. Once approved, applicants are required to enter into an agreement with the Municipality. |
Do I need a quote for the proposed project? |
Yes, applicants must provide two detailed quotes from two separate contractors for each component of their project. |
Can multiple businesses apply for funding if they operate out of the same property? |
Yes, but with limitations. Please contact the Economic Development Coordinator for more information. |
Are applicants required to use local contractors? |
The approval committee will consider whether an applicant plans on working with local contractors as part of the review process. When possible, the Municipality encourages applicants to use local contractors. |