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Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) - Ontario - Canada
Closed
Source verified July 23, 2026

Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street)

Funding for community placemaking projects
Offered by
My Main Street
Official source: mymainstreet.ca

Get notified when Community Activator Initiative (My Main Street) reopens

Latest source update
Last Update: September 27, 2026
Latest change: The Community Activator page now shows a slimmer summary, with key project-type, selection, and funding details removed from view.
View change
Community Activator program details revised
The Community Activator page has been streamlined, and several previously shown program details are no longer displayed. The page still shows funding up to $250,000, but it no longer shows the advance payment provision of up to 25% of approved project costs. Descriptions of eligible project types, including activations, community enhancements, and streetscape improvements, are also no longer shown, along with the selection criteria tied to sustainable placemaking and lasting economic and social benefits.
Funding available
$ 250,000
Deadline
Unspecified
Location
Ontario, Canada
Who can apply

Small businesses on main streets in Southern Ontario.

See full eligibility

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.
Receipt of requests is now closed
Get notified about updates to this grant.

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
Funds Providers

Eligible candidates

Eligible Industries
  • All industries
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

Availability timeline

2026
Periods: 1

Activities funded

  • Community and placemaking projects.
  • Community activations.
  • Community enhancements.
  • Streetscape improvements.

Documents Needed

  • Project budget
  • Project plan
  • Market research report

Official resources

Official page

COMMUNITY Activator

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.

Selection criteria

  • Clear project scope and geographic focus.
  • Innovation or reimagining of the activation.
  • Strong implementation capacity and a fully costed budget.
  • Community need supported by local data.
  • Potential for lasting economic and social benefits, especially for equity-deserving groups.

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

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 and placemaking projects. Community activations. Community enhancements. Streetscape improvements.

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