Open
Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program
Support for improving vacant commercial spaces
Record updated
- Funding available
- $ 10,000
- Deadline
- Open continuously
- Location
- Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
Overview
Financial support is available for new permanent or pop-up tenants improving previously vacant commercial spaces in Hamilton. The program helps fund permanent interior improvements that enhance the attractiveness and functionality of the space for commercial use.
At a glance
Funding available
- Maximum funding
- $10,000
- Start a business
- Renovate or expand facilities
- Renovate or adapt facilities
Eligible candidates
- Location
- Hamilton
- Ontario
- Eligible Industries
- All industries
- Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
- Organisation size
- All organization sizes
- Audience
- All groups
- Legal structures
- All legal structures
Start applying for this program
Take a practical assessment to gain a clear understanding of how well this program aligns with your specific needs and long-term goals.
Availability timeline
2026
Periods: 1
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- New permanent commercial tenants
- New pop-up commercial tenants
- Businesses occupying a previously vacant commercial space
Who is not eligible
- Applicants who are not tenants of the property
- Businesses that do not occupy a previously vacant commercial space
Eligible expenses
- Permanent interior improvement work for the commercial space
- Construction and renovation work related to the approved improvements
Eligible geographic areas
- Hamilton, Ontario
Activities funded
- Permanent interior improvements to vacant commercial spaces
- Construction or renovation of commercial space for retail, restaurant, artist studio, or other commercial use
How to apply
- Step 1: Complete the application form
- Fill out the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program application.
- Prepare the required supporting information and signatures.
- Step 2: Gather supporting documents
- Attach two dated contractor estimates for each proposed improvement.
- Include the draft lease agreement and any required corporate or partnership documents.
- Attach property owner authorization if the tenant is the applicant.
- Provide photos, start and completion dates, and any required plans or sketches.
- Step 3: Submit by email
- Email the completed application to the City of Hamilton contact provided on the program page.
- Step 4: Provide final proof before payment
- Submit final paid invoices and proof of payment after the approved work is completed.
Documents Needed
- Completed application form
- Application fee payment
- Two dated contractor estimates for each proposed work component
- Draft lease agreement for the commercial space
- Property owner authorization, if the tenant is applying
Selection criteria
- Grant award based on the lowest bid from contractor estimates.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed by the City of Hamilton after submission.
- Incomplete applications may be rejected.
- Approved works must be completed and paid before payment is issued.
- Final paid invoices and payment proof are required before grant release.
Additional information
- The application fee is required.
- The City may request supporting corporate or partnership documents if applicable.
- Applicants must provide proof that approved work has been completed and fully paid before grant payment.
- The City may reject incomplete applications.
Contacts
Official sources
Frequently Asked Questions about the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program Program
What is the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program?
Financial support is available for new permanent or pop-up tenants improving previously vacant commercial spaces in Hamilton. The program helps fund permanent interior improvements that enhance the attractiveness and functionality of the space for commercial use.
How much funding can be received?
Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program Funds up to $10,000 of admissible expenses.
What is the deadline to apply?
The program is accepting continuous intake
Who is eligible for the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program program?
To be eligible for the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program program, you must:
Tenant of the property
Previously vacant commercial space
Permanent interior improvements
What expenses are eligible under Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program?
Permanent interior improvement work for the commercial space
Construction and renovation work related to the approved improvements
Who can I contact for more information about the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program?
You can contact City of Hamilton by email at rachel.clemens@hamilton.ca or by phone at (905) 546-2424.
Where is the Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program available?
The Commercial Vacancy Assistance Program program is available the province of Ontario.