Deadline: 23-Apr-2026
The Signage Improvement Grant supports commercial businesses and property owners in improving storefront signage to attract customers and enhance streetscape appeal. The program provides cost-sharing funding of up to $1,000 per project (or $2,000 for multiple storefronts) to restore or install new signs, including fascia, perpendicular, stand-alone, and agricultural-related signage accessible to the public.
Eligible applicants must be located within the Community Improvement Project Area, comply with municipal regulations, and contribute at least 50% of project costs.
What is the Signage Improvement Grant?
The Signage Improvement Grant is designed to help businesses and property owners enhance visibility, attract customers, and improve the overall appearance of commercial areas. The program supports:
- Restoration of existing signage
- Installation of new, clear, and effective signs
- Agricultural-related signage for farmgate sales or agri-tourism open to the public
By improving signage, businesses contribute to a functional and visually appealing commercial environment.
Grant Overview
- Funding Type: Cost-sharing grant
- Municipal Contribution: 50% of eligible project costs
- Maximum Funding: $1,000 per storefront; $2,000 for properties with multiple signs or frontages
- Eligible Projects: Fascia, perpendicular, stand-alone, and new or restored signage
- Eligible Applicants: Merchants and commercial property owners within the Community Improvement Project Area
- Project Requirements: Compliance with municipal by-laws, zoning, and permits
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- Merchants operating in the Community Improvement Project Area
- Commercial property owners within the designated area
- Properties used for farmgate sales or agri-tourism accessible to the public
Applicants must ensure projects comply with municipal regulations and do not start improvements prior to grant approval.
What Projects Are Supported?
The grant supports projects that:
- Restore or upgrade existing signage
- Install new signage to improve visibility
- Enhance the streetscape and overall commercial appeal
- Maintain pedestrian safety and avoid obstruction of sidewalks
- Include multiple signage frontages for corner properties
Agricultural signage is supported if the property is open to visitors for sales or tourism purposes.
How the Grant Works
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
- Ensure your business or property is within the Community Improvement Project Area
- Check compliance with municipal by-laws, zoning, and permit requirements
Step 2: Plan Your Signage Project
- Determine if you are restoring existing signs or installing new signage
- Identify project type: fascia, perpendicular, stand-alone, or agricultural signage
- Ensure the design enhances visibility and streetscape appearance
Step 3: Prepare Cost-Sharing Budget
- Calculate total project costs
- Confirm 50% contribution from the applicant
- Apply for municipal funding up to $1,000 (or $2,000 for multiple signs/frontages)
Step 4: Submit Application
- Include project plan, budget, and permit compliance documentation
- Do not begin work prior to grant approval
Step 5: Implementation and Completion
- Complete project within the approved timeframe
- Ensure signage contributes to a safe, accessible, and attractive commercial area
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Starting the project before grant approval
- Failing to comply with municipal by-laws or permit requirements
- Underestimating applicant contribution (must be 50%)
- Installing signage that obstructs sidewalks or pedestrian areas
- Applying for ineligible signage types outside the grant scope
FAQs
1. Who can apply?
Merchants and commercial property owners within the Community Improvement Project Area.
2. What types of signage are eligible?
Fascia, perpendicular, stand-alone, restored signs, new installations, and agricultural signage open to the public.
3. How much funding is available?
50% of eligible project costs, up to $1,000 per project or $2,000 for multiple frontages.
4. Do I need to contribute to the project cost?
Yes, applicants must cover at least 50% of total project costs.
5. Can the project begin before approval?
No, work must not start prior to receiving grant approval.
6. Are there safety or streetscape requirements?
Yes, projects must maintain pedestrian safety and positively contribute to streetscape appearance.
7. Are agricultural properties eligible?
Yes, if the property is used for farmgate sales or agri-tourism and accessible to visitors.
Conclusion
The Signage Improvement Grant is a valuable opportunity for commercial businesses and property owners to enhance visibility, attract customers, and improve streetscape aesthetics. By providing cost-sharing funding and encouraging compliance with municipal regulations, the program ensures safe, effective, and visually appealing signage projects within Calgary’s Community Improvement Project Area.
For more information, visit Municipality of Huron East.