Ville de Shawinigan — Incentive Program for Commercial Spaces

This grant provides direct financial support through non-repayable contributions for commercial space improvement projects in designated areas of Shawinigan. The funding modalities are structured to maximize impact and accountability.

• Non-repayable financial contribution specifically for locational improvement projects.
• Coverage of up to 50% of eligible project costs, with a cap of $10,000 for existing businesses, and $20,000 for new businesses.
• Disbursements made following the signing of a grant agreement and satisfactory verification of all related documentation.

Eligibility for this grant requires companies to meet specific criteria related to their location, operations, and impact on the local commercial mix.

• The company must be a retail business or a proximity service enterprise located within the targeted areas of Shawinigan.
• The company must have been occupying a commercial space within the targeted area for at least 30 days.
• The business must be complementary to the commercial mix of the sector.
• For tenants, a lease of at least three years' duration must be signed.
• The business must operate in compliance with local municipal regulations.
• All municipal taxes must be paid in full.
• A construction permit or certificate of authorization from the City must be obtained.
• The financial assistance application must be submitted correctly before starting any renovation work.
• The business should have significant economic and/or socio-economic importance for Shawinigan, facing a challenge in terms of sustainability, growth, and/or development.
• The business should not pose unfair commercial competition within the intervention area.

Eligible expenses

Eligible expenses for the grant are those directly related to locational improvement projects.

• Any expenses directly associated with a locational improvement project.

Eligible geographic areas

This grant is available to companies located in specific geographical areas within Shawinigan, targeting the commercial revival of key streets. The eligible locations are chosen to support commercial revitalization efforts in the city.

• 105th Avenue in Shawinigan-Sud, between 108th Street and 125th Street.
• Avenue de Grand-Mère in Grand-Mère, between 2nd Street and 8th Street.

Projects under this grant are evaluated and selected based on their structural impact, economic significance, and contribution to the commercial vitality of the targeted areas.

• Contribution to the revitalization and optimization of the commercial mix in the zone.
• Enhancement of the commercial space and its attractiveness.
• Reduction in the number of vacant commercial spaces, especially for new or expanding businesses in Shawinigan.
• Support for the dynamism and consolidation of commercial recovery in the sector.

Here are additional relevant details for this grant:

• The funding is specifically allocated for locative improvements, focusing on high-impact projects.
• A protocol of grant agreement must be signed before the release of funds.
• Funds are disbursed post-verification of relevant documentation and compliance.
• Grants are non-refundable and are aimed at supporting the improvement of commercial spaces.
• Existing and new businesses have differing maximum funding opportunities, indicating tailored support based on their status.