Closed
Last Update: April 29, 2026
Funding available
Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
This program supports rural communities in revitalizing their downtown cores and improving economic well-being. It focuses on community planning, promotion, and physical improvements such as façade restoration, streetscaping, parking, and pedestrian-friendly upgrades.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop strategic partnerships
- Improve governance or administrative structure
- Strengthen organizational capacity
Eligible Funding
- Varies by project
Timeline
- Receipt of requests is now closed
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- Wholesale trade
- Retail trade
- Other services (except public administration)
- Public administration
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- Public or Parapublic institution
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Downtown core revitalization in rural communities.
- Business attraction and customer growth efforts.
- Downtown promotion and coordination with local organizations.
- Physical improvements to downtown areas.
- Safety and pedestrian-friendly upgrades.
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Rural communities.
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario rural communities.
Processing and Agreement
- Applicants are supported by a regional economic development advisor.
- The advisor helps tailor the program and train the project team.
- The project is carried out in four stages: planning, research, action, and monitoring.
Additional information
- A regional economic development advisor is assigned to support the community.
- In-person training is available for project planning and implementation.
- A coordinator’s manual and step-by-step guide are provided as resources.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program Program
Here are answers to the most common questions about the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program. 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 Downtown Revitalization (DR) program?
This program supports rural communities in revitalizing their downtown cores and improving economic well-being. It focuses on community planning, promotion, and physical improvements such as façade restoration, streetscaping, parking, and pedestrian-friendly upgrades.
Who is eligible for the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program program?
To be eligible for the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program program, you must:
Rural community under 100,000
Minimum downtown business or structure count
Prior program participation required
What expenses are eligible under Downtown Revitalization (DR) program?
Downtown core revitalization in rural communities.
Business attraction and customer growth efforts.
Downtown promotion and coordination with local organizations.
Physical improvements to downtown areas.
Safety and pedestrian-friendly upgrades.
Who can I contact for more information about the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program?
You can contact Government of Ontario by email at ruralaffairs@ontario.ca or by phone at 1-877-424-1300.
Where is the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program available?
The Downtown Revitalization (DR) program program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Downtown Revitalization (DR) program is a Expert Advice
Who are the financial supporters of the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program?
Downtown Revitalization (DR) program is funded by Government of Ontario