Applications closed, monitoring for reopening
Applications are not open right now (they last closed October 31, 2025). Many programs like this reopen, so we re-check and update this page. Last verified July 2, 2026.
Open programs that may help with the same goal:
- Regional Opportunities Investment Tax Credit — Get cash back on building upgrades with a 10% refundable tax credit, up to $45,000 per…
Browse all open storefront & retail modernization programs across Canada →
Million Dollar Makeover Funding Program
Get reimbursed for 50% of eligible storefront, facade, and signage costs in Kawartha Lakes. This matching grant pays you back after inspection, but it runs annual intakes and is currently between them, so confirm the next intake before applying. Note: this intake is currently closed, so monitor for the next one before planning. Verified against the official source on July 2, 2026; applications are closed right now and we watch for reopening.
How we verify funding records →
“The City has over one million dollars in financial incentives available through loan and grant programs.”
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 own a commercial or mixed-use property in Kawartha Lakes
- You are planning exterior façade, storefront, or signage upgrades
- You can wait for approval before starting any work or spending money
Probably not the right fit if
- You are located outside the Kawartha Lakes CIP or BIA zones
- You have already started or completed the renovation work
- You need funding for interior renovations or non-eligible items
How much you'd realistically get
Matching grants of 50% of eligible costs (plus interest-free loans from a $1M+ pool); minimum project cost $1,000
What may be supported
- Signage
- Façade work
- Building repair and renovation
- Heritage restoration
- Accessibility and energy-efficiency upgrades
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 high-impact storefront signs and coordinates qualified partners for fabrication, using the grant to cover half the cost of new branding that stops passersby in their tracks.
- BBN coordinates trades for facade work, heritage restoration, and accessibility upgrades, managing the project so you deal with one team while the city reimburses 50% of the eligible work.
- BBN guides you through the application process and deadline management 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 Kawartha Lakes's designated CIP/BIA zone — confirm your address qualifies before you spend.
- 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 Kawartha Lakes address qualifies and you apply before starting.
What you can combine it with
May combine with provincial/federal programs for the same project — we'll check what stacks.
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 July 3, 2026; last verified July 2, 2026 against the official source. Source: official program page.