City of Waterloo Community Improvement Plan (CIP)

• Application form
• Property ownership proof or owner authorization
• Lease agreement for tenants
• Project drawings, photos, estimates, and studies
• Copies of permit applications or issued permits

Who is eligible?

• Residential property owners in Waterloo.

Who is not eligible

• Projects outside the Uptown CIP project area.
• Applicants who started work before applying.
• Projects that do not have the required permits or approvals.

Eligible expenses

• Exterior façade repairs, storefront improvements, signage, lighting, and security upgrades.
• Permit fees, application fees, and related professional studies or drawings.
• Accessibility retrofits such as entrances, ramps, lifts, and accessible washrooms.
• Energy efficiency and sustainability upgrades, including windows, insulation, heat pumps, solar, and EV chargers.
• Interior renovations for vacant or underused commercial spaces.

Ineligible Costs and Activities

• Work started before application submission.
• Temporary items such as patio furniture and other removable fixtures.
• Lighting fixtures, appliances, clothing racks, and POS equipment.
• Residential or non-commercial unit improvements under the Commercial Interior and Vacancy Improvement Grant.

Eligible geographic areas

• Waterloo
• Downtown area

• Applications are reviewed for eligibility and project scope.
• Projects are assessed against built performance criteria.
• First-come, first-served priority applies when funding is limited.
• Tax Increment Equivalent Grant applications require Council approval.
• Higher-cost projects may receive a more comprehensive evaluation.

• Step 1: Pre-consultation
  • Meet with City staff to confirm eligibility and required permits.
  • Review program requirements and prepare supporting documents.
• Step 2: Submit application
  • Complete the online application.
  • Upload drawings, estimates, photos, studies, and permits when required.
• Step 3: Staff review and decision
  • City staff review the file for completeness and eligibility.
  • Receive the approval decision and any conditions or agreement requirements.
• Step 4: Complete the work and request payment
  • Finish the approved project.
  • Submit proof of completion, invoices, and proof of payment.

• Applications are reviewed by City staff for completeness and eligibility.
• The City may request additional information before making a decision.
• Approval is issued by the Executive Director of Economic Development or delegate; TIEG files require Council approval.
• If approved, the applicant receives the approval conditions and any required agreements.
• Payment is issued after completion is verified and required documentation is submitted.

• Multiple CIP programs may be combined, subject to the overall property cap.
• Tax Increment Equivalent Grant programs cannot be combined with other Uptown CIP programs.
• Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Funding is subject to available City Council-approved budget.