Is your store due for a renovation? The government will help cover the cost
For business owners in Toronto who’ve wanted to renovate their storefront but lacked funds — this program is designed for you.
Launched by the City of TorontoCommercial Space Renovation Grant Programdirectly matching your renovation costs50%, up to a maximum of $20,000Plus accessibility retrofit incentives up to $24,000This funding is provided by the Government of Canada through FedDev Ontario.no repayment required。
⚠️ Very Short Window:Opens June 1 at 9:00 AM, closes June 5 at 12:00 PMFirst Come, First Reviewed—Act Fast.
Key Data at a Glance
- 💰 Matching Ratio: Government contributes50%, you put up 50%
- 📊 Base Ceiling:$20,000(Requires at least $40,000 in renovations)
- ♿ AODA Accessibility Bonus: Additional$4,000 → Total up to$24,000
- 🏢 Multi-Unit Property: Additional$20,000(Up to 5 units at $4,000 per unit)
- 📅 Application Window:June 1, 2026, 9:00 AM — June 5, 12:00 PM
- ⚡ Review method: First come, first reviewed
- 🏛️ Funding source: FedDev Ontario (federal government)
Who Can Apply?
Three types of eligible owners/tenants
- Vacant Storefronts: Owners or tenants of currently vacant storefronts, preparing to renovate and open for business
- Shops affected by LRT/subway construction: Your store is along a TTC subway or LRT expansion construction route, affecting foot traffic.
- Businesses that previously received CERS rent subsidiesBusinesses that received the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) during the pandemic
Basic Requirements
- 📍 Located inDowntown TorontoIn
- 🏬 Street-level commercial property, or other floors with direct street access
- 🔧 Minimum of3 itemsEligible renovation projects
- 📝 Tenant application must includeLandlord Written Consent
- 💵 Total renovation cost no less than$5,000
What can be reimbursed? What cannot?
| ✅ Eligible for reimbursement | ❌ Not Reimbursable |
|---|---|
| Structural renovations, wall demolition/construction | Routine maintenance (fixing broken windows, unclogging drains, replacing ceilings) |
| Electrical engineering, indoor lighting | Movable Furniture |
| HVAC | Curtains/Blinds |
| Plumbing systems and bathroom fixtures | Equipment, Appliances |
| Interior Painting | Computers, IT Equipment |
| Floor/ceiling/wall renovation | Storefront Floor Tiles |
| Fixed Counter, Display Shelves | Doors and Windows (Indoor Renovations Only) |
| Accessibility upgrades (ramps, accessible washrooms) | Chain/franchise brands (limit of 1 application) |
| Design fees (Architecture/Engineering/AODA/BCIN) up to $2,000 | Religious sites, institutional buildings, non-profit commercial buildings, residential |
key points: All projects must beInterior Renovationwindows and exterior walls are not included. Renovations must aim to improve the commercial space, not routine maintenance.
Accessibility upgrades = get an extra $4,000
If you add renovations while doing soAODA Accessibility Retrofits, can get an additional$4,000Raising the total grant from $20,000 to $24,000.
What counts as accessibility upgrades?
- Indoor ramp (instead of stairs)
- Accessible public washrooms (wider doors, grab bars, wheelchair turning space)
- Other interior modifications compliant with AODA design standards
For design fees, if you hire a certifiedAODA expertthis portion of the cost can also be reimbursed (included within the $2,000 design fee limit).
Multi-Unit Properties Can Qualify for More
If your property has multiple commercial units (e.g., a small mall or row of shops), each additional unit can receive$4,000, up to 5 units, additional$20,000Capped. Combined with the base $20,000 and AODA's $4,000, multi-unit properties can theoretically reach a maximum of$44,000。
What do I need to prepare for the application?
The application materials are extensive,Start Preparing NowDon't wait until June 1st to scramble:
- 📋 Basic InformationApplicant name, legal business name, operating name, business type (corporation/sole proprietorship, etc.), mailing address, phone number, email
- 🔢 CRA Business Number（Business Number）
- 🏠 property address + Assessment Roll Number
- 📄 Landlord Non-Objection Letter(Tenant must): Obtain written consent from the landlord to carry out renovations and apply for grants
- 🏛️ Estate registration confirmation: Check if your property is on the Toronto Heritage Register (Online InquiryOr call 416-397-9839. If it is, you must first contact Heritage Planning for renovation plan approval.
- 📝 Eligibility ConfirmationIndicate which category you qualify for (vacant/affected by construction/received CERS)
- 🔨 Renovation PlanDescribe at least 3 interior renovation items in detail, with photos or design drawings.
- ♿ Accessibility Statement: Whether AODA accessibility retrofits are included
- 📸 5 current photos: Current condition of the commercial space
- 💰 2 Contractor Quotes: From different contractors, dated, on contractor letterhead
- 👥 Ownership Background(optional): minorities, newcomers, persons with disabilities, etc.
⚠️ The Two Most Important Things
- 2 Contractor Quotesis a hard requirement — contact a contractor now to inspect and provide a quote, which takes at least 2–3 weeks.
- Landlord Non-Objection Letter—Tenants should communicate with the landlord early, don't wait until the last day when the landlord is unreachable
Application strategy: how to improve your success rate
1. Timing = securing a spot
Window Only5 daysReviewed in order of submission. Submit promptly at 9:00 AM on June 1—don't hesitate. If funds run out, later applicants go on a waitlist, and whether they get a turn depends entirely on luck.
2. Renovation costs must be at least $40,000 to receive the full amount
The government matches 50%. To get the full $20,000, your renovation budget must be at least $40,000. Spending $10,000 only gets you $5,000. Work with a reliable contractor to plan a project that hits that number — the renovation itself is an investment in your store.
3. Include accessibility upgrades
Even just widening a bathroom door or installing a handrail—spending a few thousand dollars can net you a $4,000 subsidy, with a very high ROI. Plus, an accessible storefront is a plus—it's easier for customers with disabilities and seniors.
4. Use the design fee allowance
Don't waste the $2,000 design fee reimbursement. Hire a professional designer or architect to finalize your renovation plan—it boosts approval chances and gets you $2,000 for free.
5. Property Inspection Checklist
Check the estate registration status and assessment roll number in advance. Estate properties require additional approvals, which may take weeks. Call 416-397-9839 now to confirm.
Contact Us
This grant is directly approved by the City of Toronto, not through a third party. For more information:
- 📞 Michael Saunders：416-392-1005
- 📧 Michael.Saunders@toronto.ca
- 🔗 Official Page:toronto.ca/commercial-space-renovation-grant
If you need help preparing application materials, writing a renovation plan description, or connecting with suitable contractors,Glow Pacifier ConsultingWe can help you complete the entire application process and maximize your approval chances.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this grant need to be repaid? Is it a loan or a grant?
This is a matching grant that does not need to be repaid. The government directly subsidizes 50% of your renovation costs, effectively covering half of your expenses.
Q: I have a store in Scarborough/Markham, can I apply?
This program only covers the City of Toronto. Scarborough, North York, and Etobicoke are part of Toronto and are eligible. However, Markham, Richmond Hill, and Mississauga are not part of Toronto and do not qualify.
Q: I'm a tenant, not a landlord. Can I still apply?
Yes, but you must obtain a no-objection letter from your landlord. It's a good idea to discuss it with them in advance—free renovations are also a benefit for the landlord.
Q: Can I still apply if renovations have already started or been completed?
No. Construction must not begin until after approval. It's recommended to apply and get approved first before starting work.
Q: I'm a franchise, can I apply?
Yes, but a chain brand or franchise system can only submit one application. If multiple stores of the same brand apply, only one can be approved.
Q: I've been open less than a year, can I apply?
Yes. The program does not require a minimum operating history. Vacant commercial spaces can also apply, as long as they meet one of the eligibility criteria.
Want to know how much your business could qualify for?
Glow Pacifier Consulting has helped dozens of Toronto business owners successfully apply for government loans and grants.
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