Closed
Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street)
Funding for community placemaking projects
Last Update: April 29, 2026
Funding available
$ 250,000
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
This program supports community and placemaking projects on main streets in Southern Ontario. It offers non-repayable contributions of up to $250,000 for events, community enhancements, and streetscape improvement projects.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Strengthen organizational capacity
- Reach a new target audience
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 250,000 $
- Up to 25% of project cost
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Retail trade
- Arts, entertainment and recreation
- Accommodation and food services
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- 1-50 employees
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Community events and activations.
- Above-grade community enhancements.
- Streetscape improvement projects.
Documents Needed
- Project budget
- Project plan
- Market research report
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Small businesses on main streets in Southern Ontario.
- Community organizations delivering placemaking projects.
Who is not eligible
- Franchises.
Eligible geographic areas
- Southern Ontario.
Processing and Agreement
- Applications are reviewed against the program’s placemaking goals and community impact.
- Projects are assessed for vision, capacity, and community need.
- Successful applicants are notified and may receive funding support.
- Approved projects may receive an advance payment.
Additional information
- Custom market research support is included for applicants and successful projects.
- Successful applicants may receive an advance of up to 25% of approved project costs.
- The program is administered by the Canadian Urban Institute.
- The initiative is currently closed for intake.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street). This section explains what the program is, how much funding is available, eligibility requirements, application deadlines, and other important details to help you determine if this grant is right for your business.
What is the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street)?
This program supports community and placemaking projects on main streets in Southern Ontario. It offers non-repayable contributions of up to $250,000 for events, community enhancements, and streetscape improvement projects.
How much funding can be received?
Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) Funds up to 25% of admissible expenses, capped at $250,000 per project.
Who is eligible for the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) program?
To be eligible for the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) program, you must:
Placemaking project with clear local focus.
Demonstrated community need and benefit.
Capable team and project plan.
What expenses are eligible under Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street)?
Community events and activations.
Above-grade community enhancements.
Streetscape improvement projects.
Where is the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) available?
The Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street)?
Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) is funded by My Main Street