Downtown Incentive Programs
2024 Smithers Storefront Spruce Up: Receive up to $5,000 for Business Façade Improvements!
The annual Smithers Spruce Up is back!
Businesses located in the Downtown Commercial area (Queen Street to King Street, Railway Avenue to Highway 16) seeking to renovate, restore or redesign retail storefronts and commercial building façades can receive a grant up to 50% of the cost of eligible improvements, to a maximum $5,000 per project.
The Application deadline is June 1st, 2024. Please see the Grant Program Guide containing the application.
Eligible Façade Improvements include but not limited to:
• Accessibility improvements (ramps, wider doors, auto openers etc.) to the outside of the building only)
• Exterior lighting (new but not replacement)
• Exterior architectural features
• Exterior surfaces and details (decorative details, moldings, trims etc.)
• Windows (only if part of larger improvements, no stand-alone window replacements)
• New siding
• Façade painting
• Entrances and doorways (only if part of larger improvements), no stand-alone entrance/doorway replacement
• Awnings
• Wayfinding signage (signs located on the business property, i.e. at the bottom of a driveway, are eligible for 50% to a maximum of $500 and must adhere to the Smithers Sign Bylaw)
• Signage affixed to the building (not freestanding signs)Eligible costs:
• Direct project labour costs
• Project materials and supplies
• Wayfinding signage for Home-based businesses at 50% to a maximum of $500
• Rental of tools and equipment
• Design, Architectural or Engineering fees (related to façade only)
• Contractor fees
• Shipping costs/and or freight
• PST
Smithers Spruce Up will contribute towards:- Making Smithers ever more inviting as a place to walk, bike, shop, and play
- Promoting the marketability of retail, commercial businesses and non-profit organizations
- Helping building owners to create value and attract and retain tenants
- Enhancing the quality of life for residents, workers, and visitors in the downtown core
- Building civic pride among the business community and Smithers’ citizens
- Maintaining downtown Smithers’ Mountain Theme and its reputation of having the best downtown of any northern BC community!
Funding for the Smithers Storefront Spruce Up is provided by the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT).
Contact Information:
Benjamin Lee, Planner: 250-847-1600 or blee@smithers.ca
Related Documents: Smithers Storefront Spruce Up Program Guide