Façade Improvement Program
Quick Facts:
- Apply before you begin. Applications must be submitted and approved before any work starts.
- Letter of Approval: If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email. Work may begin only after this letter is issued.
- Work must be completed AND the claim form (including proof of payment) must be submitted by October 31, 2026.
- Each specific property and/or address is only eligible to apply every 2nd year for a façade grant.
Program Objectives
The Façade Improvement Program provides financial incentives to support property owners and tenants in enhancing the street-facing exterior appearance of their buildings within the Business Improvement Area (BIA).
By improving building façades, the program aims to:
- Strengthen the visual appeal of individual storefronts
- Contribute to a more vibrant and cohesive streetscape
- Support ongoing downtown beautification efforts
Successful applicants may receive 50% of eligible project costs
(excluding HST), up to a maximum of $4,000.
Who is Eligible?
Eligible applicants include:
- All DCI levy-paying commercial property owners within the Downtown Charlottetown Business Improvement Area (BIA)
- Commercial tenants located within the BIA
Note:
Commercial tenants must provide written approval from the property owner. Each property/address may apply once every two years.
Definition of a Facade
A façade is defined as any exterior wall facing:
- A public street
- A parking lot
- A vacant lot
- A public alleyway
Façades that:
- Face narrow corridors between buildings, OR
- Will be obstructed by a future structure, are not eligible for funding.
Eligible Work/Improvements
The program supports permanent, street-facing improvements that enhance the building’s exterior.
Eligible projects include:
- Painting and exterior finishing
- Siding
- Windows and doors
- Awnings
- Exterior fixtures
- Reconstruction and accessibility upgrades
- Signage (excluding product advertisements)
- Professional façade design consultations
- Landscaping and planters abutting the property
- Outdoor security cameras*
- Security lighting
Please note:
This grant is intended for permanent, affixed improvements—not seasonal installations or temporary assets.
*If you are applying solely for the purchase and installation of an outdoor security camera, please apply through the separate Outdoor Security Camera Grant program.
Available Funding Assistance
Funding assistance is available for eligible improvements of commercial buildings within the BIA. Façade improvement assistance will cover 50% of the total costs to a maximum of $4000 per façade, with a maximum of two façades per application.
DCI will review applications on a first-come, first-served basis. Funds will be distributed until the 2025 budget allocations have been depleted, at which point no new applicants will be accepted.
Funding Details
- Funding covers 50% of eligible project costs, to a maximum of $4,000 per façade
- A maximum of two façades per application may be considered
Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Funding will be allocated until the 2026 program budget has been fully committed. Once funds are depleted, no additional applications will be accepted.
Application Process
To apply, submit a completed and signed application form along with:
- A detailed project description
- Photos or drawings of current conditions
- Drawings/renderings of proposed improvements
- Written quotes from certified contractor(s)
Submit your application package by:
Important:
Applications must receive written approval before work begins.
Click to download the APPLICATION FORM
