Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The Stream Two Grant supports high-impact projects that enhance outdoor dining, activate public spaces, and increase visitor engagement in restaurant neighbourhoods across Toronto.
The programme focuses on creative placemaking, streetscape improvements, and dining district activations that strengthen local businesses and improve the vibrancy of communities, especially in suburban and non-downtown areas.
Programme Focus Areas
The grant supports projects related to:
- Outdoor dining enhancement
- Public space activation
- Creative placemaking
- Streetscape beautification
- Visitor attraction initiatives
- Restaurant and bar district support
- Temporary outdoor dining infrastructure
- Community and economic development programming
The programme places strong emphasis on neighbourhoods outside Toronto’s downtown core.
Funding Support
Standard Stream Two Grants
- Grants of up to $25,000
Legacy Projects
- Funding of up to $100,000
Funding is distributed in two installments:
- 50% after signing the funding agreement
- 50% after approval of the final report package
Programme Objectives
The initiative aims to:
- Improve outdoor dining experiences
- Increase foot traffic and visitation
- Support restaurants, cafés, and bars
- Activate public and commercial spaces
- Strengthen neighbourhood economic activity
- Encourage innovative community placemaking
Eligible Activities
Supported activities may include:
- Temporary parklets and public platforms
- Streetscape beautification projects
- Outdoor dining enhancements
- Patio expansion initiatives
- Public art and placemaking activities
- Visitor attraction campaigns
- Dining district events and activations
- Conversion of parking spaces into patios
Projects may take place on public or private property if they support dining area activation.
Legacy Project Requirements
Legacy Projects must:
- Demonstrate innovative or untested approaches
- Deliver long-term public realm or dining district benefits
- Support restaurants and surrounding businesses
- Include at least $100,000 in financial or in-kind contributions
These projects should create significant economic and community impact.
Who is Eligible?
The programme is intended for organizations and groups capable of delivering community-based dining and public space initiatives in Toronto.
Applicants should demonstrate:
- Experience in project delivery
- Community or business engagement
- Capacity to manage activations and programming
- Ability to generate measurable local impact
Tips for Applicants
Strong proposals should:
- Show clear economic and community benefits
- Focus on visitor attraction and neighbourhood vibrancy
- Include creative and practical placemaking ideas
- Demonstrate strong partnerships and local support
- Prioritize underserved or suburban dining districts
Legacy Project applications should clearly explain innovation and long-term impact.
FAQ
How much funding is available?
Standard projects may receive up to $25,000, while Legacy Projects may receive up to $100,000.
What types of projects are supported?
Outdoor dining improvements, placemaking initiatives, beautification projects, patios, parklets, and visitor engagement activities.
What is a Legacy Project?
A Legacy Project is a larger initiative using innovative or untested approaches to improve outdoor dining and public spaces.
Are suburban areas prioritized?
Yes. The programme prioritizes suburban and non-downtown neighbourhoods where outdoor dining activations are less common.
How is funding distributed?
Funding is released in two stages: 50% after agreement signing and 50% after final reporting approval.
Conclusion
The Stream Two Grant helps strengthen Toronto’s restaurant neighbourhoods through outdoor dining enhancements, public space activations, and creative placemaking initiatives. By supporting vibrant dining districts and community-focused programming, the programme aims to boost local economies, attract visitors, and improve public spaces across the city.
For more information, visit City of Toronto.