Applications closed, monitoring for reopening
Applications are not open right now (they last closed April 5, 2024). Many programs like this reopen, so we re-check and update this page.
● Still available
One other program is open, with funding up to $5,000
Want to know the moment this reopens?
We re-check this program regularly. Leave your email and we'll tell you as soon as applications open again.
Markham Commercial Facade Improvement Grant
Refresh your Markham storefront with up to $10,000 in reimbursement (50% match), plus $5,000 extra for heritage buildings. You pay first, then get reimbursed after approval and inspection. Note: this intake is currently closed, so monitor for the next one before planning. Applications are closed right now and we watch for reopening.
How we verify funding records →
“Approved applicants who undertake at least $500 in improvements are eligible for a grant of up to 50% of the costs with a maximum limit of $10,000 per property for eligible work.”
From the official program page
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 commercial storefront in one of Markham's heritage conservation districts (or an Ontario Heritage Act–designated property)
- You plan exterior facade, storefront, or signage work (heritage-designated buildings get an extra $5,000)
- You can secure approval before starting any work
Probably not the right fit if
- Your storefront is outside Markham's heritage conservation districts and is not an Ontario Heritage Act–designated property
- You have already started or finished the work
How much you'd realistically get
For example, on a $10,000 eligible project, that's up to about $5,000 back.
Up to $10,000 per property (50% matching), + $5,000 for heritage buildings
What may be supported
- facade restoration
- storefront
- signage
- awnings
- windows and doors
- masonry cleaning/repointing
- exterior lighting
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 your new storefront signs and coordinates qualified partners for fabrication to grab attention and drive foot traffic.
- BBN coordinates the masonry, painting, window and awning trades so you deal with one team and keep the project on schedule.
- BBN scopes eligible costs and organizes quotes for the 50% matching requirement, making the most of the program.
- BBN guides you through the application and deadlines so you don't 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 Markham's heritage conservation districts (or Ontario Heritage Act–designated properties) — confirm your address qualifies before you spend.
- The base grant is open to commercial storefronts in the eligible districts; individually heritage-designated buildings get an extra $5,000.
- 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 Markham address qualifies and you apply before starting.
Related BBN services
Storefront Signs & Sign Boards
Sign concepts, mockups and measurements done right. Fabrication and installation quoted and managed for you.
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.
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 3 days ago with the official source. Source: official program page.