CO
Streetscape Improvement Program
City of Toronto · The Streetscape Improvement Program provides capital cost-sharing funding for Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) to upgrade streetscape elements such as paving,…
Overview
The Streetscape Improvement Program provides capital cost-sharing funding for Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) to upgrade streetscape elements such as paving, lighting, trees, street furniture, and sidewalks. The City of Toronto typically covers 50% of project costs, with BIAs contributing the remaining share. Projects range from minor installations like banners and planters to major works including median enhancements and sidewalk treatments.
Eligibility
Applicant must be a Business Improvement Area (BIA) operating in TorontoProjects must involve permanent streetscape elements within the City's right-of-wayFunded projects typically follow a 50/50 cost-sharing model between City and BIABIA must have its 50% share of funding in place for approvalEligible projects
Art installationsBanner poles and bannersBenches and street furnitureGateways and markersHanging baskets and plantersMedian enhancementsPedestrian lightingSidewalk treatments and improvementsFinancing terms
Cost-sharing program with City of Toronto typically covering 50% of eligible project costsBIA contributes remaining 50% of project costsSingle-phase projects capped at $700,000 gross project valueMulti-phase projects limited to $1.8 million gross value over five-year periodFinanced funding option available for large projects, with BIA repayment scheduled over 3–10 years plus annual compounded interestAfter completion, BIA assumes 100% responsibility for ongoing maintenanceHow to apply
1Check eligibilityConfirm you meet every criterion listed above before you start.
2Prepare the project packageProject description, budget with quotes, team, and recent financial statements.
3Apply on toronto.caGovgrant members can draft the application with AI and export a formatted PDF.
4Respond to reviewer questionsMost programs come back with one round of questions within a few weeks of submission.
Additional information
City implements more than 80 capital projects annually from a combined budget of $3.5 millionProjects are managed by the City of Toronto's BIA OfficeBIAs submit proposals by August for council approval; project initiation requires 1+ year advance planningPermit process and utility clearances typically take 3–6 months before project tenderingThree funding options available: standard 50/50 cost-share, City-financed with BIA repayment, or full BIA funding with no City supportAt a glanceMaximum$700KMinimum$10KProviderCity of TorontoDeadlineRolling intakeStatusOpenRegionOntarioOfficial sourcetoronto.ca ↗
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