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Downtown Revitalization (DR) program

Supports rural downtown revitalization

Offered by
Government of Ontario
Official source: ontario.ca

Source change captured

Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada
Who can apply
Rural communities.
See full eligibility

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.

At a glance

Funding available

Varies by project

Financing goals
  • Develop strategic partnerships
  • Improve governance or administrative structure
  • Strengthen organizational capacity
  • Raise awareness or mobilize a population
  • Renovate or expand facilities
  • Conduct research or evaluation activities
  • Renovate or adapt facilities

Eligible candidates

Location
  • Ontario
Eligible Industries
All industries
Annual revenue
All revenue ranges
Organisation size
All organization sizes
Audience
All groups
Legal structures
Public or Parapublic institution

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

Latest changes

Downtown Revitalization program content updated

The page now presents the Downtown Revitalization program with eligibility, getting-started steps, program stages, and resources.

See more

The page was replaced with a Downtown Revitalization program overview for rural communities. It now explains who can participate, what communities can do through the program, how to get started, the four program stages, and where to find the coordinator’s manual and support contacts.

Official source: ontario.ca
May 16, 2026

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Rural communities.

Eligible geographic areas

  • Ontario rural communities.

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.

How to apply

  • Step 1: Contact the program team
    • Email or call the program team to start.
    • A regional economic development advisor will be assigned.
  • Step 2: Get support and resources
    • Work with the advisor to tailor the program to your community.
    • Receive training and access to tools such as the step-by-step guide and information sessions.
  • Step 3: Complete the project stages
    • Plan and organize the project team.
    • Conduct research, create an action plan, and monitor results.

Documents Needed

  • Contact information for the applicant community.
  • A completed online information form.
  • Selected resources or tools from the program portal.

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

ruralaffairs@ontario.ca
1-877-424-1300

Official sources

Downtown Revitalization program

Application form

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Downtown Revitalization (DR) program Program

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.

What is the deadline to apply?

The program is accepting continuous intake

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

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