Building a Vibrant Downtown Summerside
GROW funding program
About the GROW Program
Inspired by the City’s Downtown Transformation Committee and support by Summerside’s City Council, the GROW program is a new initiative investing $1 million through grants and incentives to support redevelopment, business growth, property improvements, and long-term revitalization within our downtown.
GROW Funding Now Available
There are 6 funding programs available for business and property owners to explore. Funding applications will be released in a phased approach- so check back here or stay tuned to the City’s social media for more.
Transforming Our Built Environment
Much of Summerside’s downtown was established over 100 years ago- long before building codes and fire safety regulations. That means there are some complicated barriers that can get in the way of great ideas.
Spaces
Places and spaces are open to owners of property located in downtown Summerside who want to transform their property into a fun, accessible, and vibrant downtown gathering space.
Eligible Costs: Creative rest installations, lighting enhancements, path remediation, gathering spaces, etc.
Total Funding Available: $200,000
Property Owner Contribution: Required.
How to Apply: Review the Program Guidelines, complete the Application Form, and submit the Project Budget.
It aims to remove the technical knowledge barriers that prevent good intentions from becoming permitted, financed, and built improvements. This fund is specifically to help building owners access Registered Professional services for a Building Condition Assessment.
Eligible Costs: Professional Service fees for completion of a Building Condition Assessment.
Total Funding Available: $50,000
Property Owner Contribution: Requires 50% contribution from property owner.
How to Apply: Read through the fund guidelines here,
Written Application
Small Business Activation
A thriving small business community is the source, not a byproduct of a healthy downtown.
It supports entrepreneurs and small businesses to choose to operate in Downtown Summerside. These non-payable credits offer $10,000 to 10 new businesses to assist with the upfront cost of occupying commercial space when starting out.
Priority: Active Business Types; Summerside Residents
Total Allocation: $100,000
How to Apply: Read through the fund guidelines here,
Written Application
It offers matching funds toward relevant professional services required to move a project from an idea to full concept to permit. This fund requires a current Building Conditions Assessment. If there is no BCA, the applicant may include developing one as part of their application.
Eligible Costs: Building Condition Assessments and other professional service fees including but not limited to architectural and engineering design, planning and permitting consultation, cost estimating, etc.
Total Allocation: $150,000
Property Owner Contribution: Requires 50% from property owner and proof of current Building Conditions Assessment
How to Apply: Read through the fund guidelines here,
Written Application
It targets actions, equipment, construction, and permit fees required for occupancy or attracting occupants.
Eligible Costs: Leasehold improvements, fit-up construction, fixed equipment required for occupancy, permit fees, etc.
Total Allocation: $150,000
Property Owner Contribution: Requires 50% from property owner and proof of current Building Conditions Assessment
How to Apply: Read through the fund guidelines here,
Written Application
It addresses systemic structural issues preventing residential occupancy on upper floors of storefronts.
Eligible Costs: Construction, life safety upgrades, permitting fees or costs directly related to converting upper floor space for residential occupancy.
Total Allocation: $75,000.00
Property Owner Contribution: Requires 50% from property owner and proof of current Building Conditions Assessment
How to Apply: Read through the fund guidelines here,
Written Application
paint the town
The program is coordinated by Downtown Summerside Inc. to improve downtown’s visible condition and pedestrian appeal.
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