Grants & Funds
Are you a street-level business in downtown Vancouver? Learn more about the various grants available. Applications are now closed.
Click here for more information on timelines, eligibility, selection criteria and more.
Business Beautification Fund
Enhance the outward appearance of your street-level storefront business with up to $2,000 in funding.
Apply Now
Business Activation Fund
Get up to $2,500 to turn your storefront into a destination during major, seasonal and culture events like the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Apply Now
Security Camera Fund
Get up to $2,000 to install, replace or upgrade your security camera system.
Apply Now
Timelines
- February 2, 2026: Application portals open.
- March 2, 2026: Deadline to submit your application.
- March 20, 2026: Successful and waitlisted applicants will be notified.
- March 31, 2026: Deadline for successful applicants to accept their funding.
- April 1, 2026: Projects may begin.
Which Businesses are eligible?
You must be a Downtown Van member (apply here) with a street-level business in a commercial building located within the Downtown Van boundaries.
General Information
- Funding Limit Per Business: To ensure equitable distribution of limited funds, each business may receive a maximum of two funds per year. However, they may apply to more than two.
- Reimbursement Method: Issued via Electronic Transfer Funds (EFT) post project completion.
Application Process
- Submit Your Application: Reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and you must receive approval before making any purchases.
- Sign Letter of Agreement: Upon approval, our team will send over a Letter of Agreement that must be signed within 14 days and before installation. Only the cost for approved purchases will be reimbursed.
- Submit Required Documents: This includes proof of payment, EFT information, an invoice for Downtown Van and photos.
- Payment Issued: All payments to be issued via electronic funds transfer (EFT).
* Application requirements may vary between funds.
Selection Criteria
Applications are reviewed and selected based on criteria for each fund. Depending on the fund, projects are approved based on a combination of the following:
- Project Feasibility: The project can be realistically completed within the proposed timeframe and budget.
- Demonstrated Financial Need: The business demonstrates a clear financial need for support to deliver the project.
- Creativity and Visibility: The project demonstrates creativity and has the potential to attract visitors and increase the business’s visibility.
- Economic Impact: The project is expected to generate positive economic outcomes for the business or adjacent businesses, such as increased sales, foot traffic, or customer engagement.
- Timing: In the case of the Activation Fund, the project timeline is well aligned with an associated event and local context. In all other cases, the project intends some kind of enduring impact.
- Environmental Impact: If possible, the project contributes to environmental stewardship, greenery maintenance, or waste and energy reduction.
Questions? Email Ingrid Valou, Manager, Economic Development, at ingrid@dtvan.ca.