Closed
Source verified April 29, 2026
Downtown Revitalization (DR) program
Supports rural downtown revitalization
Latest source updateLast Update: May 16, 2026Latest change: The page now presents the Downtown Revitalization program with eligibility, getting-started steps, program stages, and resources.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 16, 2026
Latest change: The page now presents the Downtown Revitalization program with eligibility, getting-started steps, program stages, and resources.
Downtown Revitalization program content updated
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.
Funding available
Varies by project
Deadline
Open continuously
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
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
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.
Documents Needed
- Contact information for the applicant community.
- A completed online information form.
- Selected resources or tools from the program portal.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Rural communities.
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario rural communities.
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.
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
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