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Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program

Funding for vacant commercial space improvements

Offered by
City of London
Official source: london.ca

Source change captured

Funding available
$ 50,000
Up to 50% of project cost
Deadline
Unspecified
Location
London, Ontario, Canada
Who can apply
Business owners
See full eligibility

Overview

This program provides up to $50,000 to help business owners and tenants fit out vacant commercial space. It supports approved improvements that allow eligible businesses to begin operations in the Core Area.

At a glance

Funding available

Maximum funding
$50,000
Maximum share of project costs
50%
Financing goals
  • Renovate or expand facilities
  • Renovate or adapt facilities

Eligible candidates

Location
  • London
  • Ontario
Eligible Industries
All industries
Annual revenue
All revenue ranges
Organisation size
All organization sizes
Audience
All groups
Legal structures
All legal structures

Receipt of requests is now closed

Get notified about updates to this grant.

Availability timeline

2026
Periods: 1

Latest changes

Application windows closed on incentive programs

Several incentive program application windows are now closed, with available funding fully allocated, and the page now points to updated Building contact information for more details.

See more

The page now says the application windows for the ARU Construction Grant, ARU Construction Grant for New Homes, and the Building Permit Fee Waiving Program have closed because all available funding has been fully allocated. It also removes the former September 7, 2026 deadline and the $2.5 million funding-cap note from the fee-waiving section. The Building Permit Fee Waiver Program section now directs applicants to the City’s Building contact information for more details, and the page also adds a Building email contact.

Official source: london.ca
October 14, 2026

Eligibility

Who is eligible?

  • Business owners
  • Business tenants

Who is not eligible

  • Businesses not using a targeted commercial use under the program guidelines.
  • Properties owned or leased by the City or by City agencies, boards, or commissions.
  • Downtown relocation projects that do not increase the size of the proposed commercial space.

Eligible expenses

  • Costs to fit out and improve vacant commercial space for business operations.

Ineligible Costs and Activities

  • Work started before application approval.
  • Projects outside the Core Area Community Improvement Project Area.
  • Relocation projects in downtown that do not increase the size of the new commercial space.

Eligible geographic areas

  • Core Area Community Improvement Project Area in London, Ontario

Activities funded

  • Setting up vacant commercial spaces for business operations.
  • Improving empty commercial premises so they can be occupied by eligible businesses.

How to apply

  • Step 1: Request program details
    • Email CIPIncentives@london.ca for program information and application forms.
  • Step 2: Submit the application
    • Apply before starting any work.
  • Step 3: Allow verification visits
    • City staff conduct site visits before and after the improvements.
  • Step 4: Complete approval and agreement
    • If approved, review the Commitment Letter and sign the Loan or Grant Agreement.
  • Step 5: Receive funding
    • Funding is issued after the City verifies that the work is complete.

Documents Needed

  • Completed application form
  • Lease agreement, if the applicant is a tenant
  • Proof of completed work
  • Photos of the completed improvements
  • Contractor payment records

Processing and Agreement

  • The City reviews the application before work begins.
  • City staff conduct site visits before and after the improvements.
  • Approved projects receive a Commitment Letter.
  • Funding is released after the Loan or Grant Agreement is signed and completion is verified.

Additional information

  • City staff can provide program details and application forms by email.
  • A site visit is conducted before and after the improvements to confirm the work.
  • For approved projects, the City issues a Commitment Letter outlining the work and financial commitment.
  • Funding is released after the agreement is signed and the City verifies completion.

Contacts

CIPIncentives@london.ca
519-930-3500

Official sources

Community improvement and incentives
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program Program

What is the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program?

This program provides up to $50,000 to help business owners and tenants fit out vacant commercial space. It supports approved improvements that allow eligible businesses to begin operations in the Core Area.

How much funding can be received?

Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program Funds up to 50% of admissible expenses, capped at $50,000 per project.

Who is eligible for the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program program?

To be eligible for the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program program, you must: Approved before work starts Targeted commercial use Two-year lease for tenants

What expenses are eligible under Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program?

Costs to fit out and improve vacant commercial space for business operations.

Who can I contact for more information about the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program?

You can contact City of London by email at CIPIncentives@london.ca or by phone at 519-930-3500.

Where is the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program available?

The Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program program is available the province of Ontario.

Is the Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program a grant, loan, or tax credit?

Vacant Commercial Space Fit-Out Grant Program is a Grant and Funding