Applications closed, monitoring for reopening
Applications are not open right now. Many programs like this reopen, so we re-check and update this page.
● Still available
71 storefront & retail modernization programs are open across Canada
We don't have a close match for this program. The full list of what is open in this category is the best place to start.
Show all 71 open storefront & retail modernization programs →
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Downtown Winnipeg Facade Improvement Program
Refresh your heritage storefront with up to $15,000 matched plus $5,000 for design fees in downtown Winnipeg - but all available grants are currently allocated, and the BIZ's program page has since been removed. Confirm with CentreVenture whether the program will return. Applications are closed right now and we watch for reopening.
How we verify funding records →
Before you spend a dollar
Get the city's approval BEFORE you start work or buy anything — starting early is the #1 way owners lose this funding.
At a glance
Subject to program rules, available funding, and approval. Confirm current details with the official program administrator.
Not sure if you qualify?
Get a free, 2-minute read on whether this program fits your business. No obligation.
Check your fit →Is this for you?
- You operate a business in a heritage-designated building in downtown Winnipeg
- You are planning exterior facade, storefront, or signage improvements
- You can secure approval before starting any work or purchasing materials
Probably not the right fit if
- Your building is not heritage-designated
- You have already started or completed the renovation work
- Your business is located outside the designated downtown improvement zone
How much you'd realistically get
Up to $15,000 matched on hard costs, plus up to $5,000 toward design fees
What may be supported
- signage
- exterior lighting
- awnings
- patio fixtures
- doors and windows
- storefront/facade exterior improvements
- heritage restoration
- accessible entryways
How applying works
Effort: mediumA city application with quotes/photos; approval before you start, then claim after completion.
- 01Confirm your property is in the program area and funds are available
- 02Get the city's written pre-approval BEFORE starting
- 03Complete the approved work
- 04Submit your costs for reimbursement
Documents commonly required
- Quotes/estimates for the work
- Photos of the current storefront
- Proof of property ownership or owner's consent
How BBN Labs helps
- BBN designs and coordinates your new storefront signs to draw more foot traffic and make your business stand out on the street.
- BBN coordinates exterior lighting, awnings, patio fixtures, and accessible entryway upgrades so you deal with one team instead of juggling multiple contractors.
- BBN guides you through the application and matching requirements so you do not lose the funding.
What to know before you count on it
- Cost-share: you pay for the work first, then you're reimbursed (about half) after it's done and inspected.
- Apply and get approved BEFORE you start any work or buy anything — starting early disqualifies most of these.
- Area-gated to Winnipeg's designated CIP/BIA zone — confirm your address qualifies before you spend.
- Often requires a heritage-designated/listed building (most ordinary storefronts won't qualify) — check first.
- Municipal funding is limited each year — confirm money is still available.
What are your odds?
Area-gated and funding-limited, but a straightforward fit if your Winnipeg address qualifies and you apply before starting.
Related BBN services
Storefront & Facade Improvements
Facade refresh concepts, visualizations and contractor coordination, scoped the way municipal improvement programs expect.
Accessibility Improvements
Accessible websites, clear signage, and ramps or entrance work handled by licensed trades.
Storefront Signs & Sign Boards
Sign concepts, mockups and measurements done right. Fabrication and installation quoted and managed for you.
Tourism & Hospitality Digitization
Booking-ready websites, multilingual visitor info, itineraries, kiosks and media for operators and attractions.
What you can combine it with
May combine with provincial/federal programs for the same project — we'll check what stacks.
Worth reading before you apply
Get alerted when this changes
Programs open and close, budgets run out, rules change. We send one short email when something changes that matters for this program.
Record last updated ; last verified yesterday with the official source. Source: official program page.