This program is only available to businesses located within the
Sackville Business Improvement District > (Click to View)
Look your best

Façade Improvement Program

SBA BID Members can receive up to $5,000 for Façade Improvements

The Sackville Business Association offers a Façade Improvement Program to help members invest in façade renovations and storefront upgrades.

PROGRAM DETAILS

The Façade Improvement Program covers up to 50 per cent of the cost of eligible renovations, to a maximum of $5,000.*

*Contingent on funding

ELIGIBILITY

  • The program is open to members of the Sackville Business Association, both business and commercial property owners.
  • The property must lie within the boundaries of the Sackville Business Improvement District.
  • Business and building owners are encouraged to work together on developing a design and submitting applications. If a tenant wishes to apply, written permission from the building owner is required.

ELIGIBLE IMPROVEMENTS

Eligible improvements are limited to the exterior of the front-facing or highly-visible side of the building. Improvements may include but are not limited to: upgrades to exterior architectural and decorative details, landscaping, painting, exterior surfaces, windows, doors, entrance ways, awnings and lighting. Other improvements may be considered.

REQUIREMENTS

  • Applicants must complete an application form and submit a drawing of the proposed changes. Where possible, a design professional should be hired to produce an attractive product.
  • Proposed upgrades must be approved by Halifax Regional Municipality and the necessary permits must be obtained before construction begins.
  • Construction cannot start before the reimbursement agreement is signed. Funding is not provided retroactively.

HOW THE PROCESS WORKS:

Generally, the grant process works as follows:

  1. Contact the Sackville Business Association for an application form.
  2. Contact HRM Planning to ensure the proposed upgrades will meet HRM bylaw requirements.
  3. Submit a completed application, along with two contractor quotes for the project.
  4. The Project Review Committee evaluates the application.
  5. The applicant is notified in writing if the application has been approved, refused, or if additional information is required.
  6. If the project is approved, the SBA and the applicant sign a reimbursement agreement spelling out the project details, what costs will be reimbursed, and any conditions.
  7. Construction begins.
  8. The applicant supplies the SBA with proof of payment of all suppliers and contractors.
  9. Project is inspected by the SBA’s project manager.
  10. The SBA issues reimbursement for the amount specified in the agreement.

GRANT APPROVAL

  • Grants are allocated on a case-by-case basis as long as funding is available.
  • Project proposals are subject to a review of the existing building storefront and façade, must meet high quality standards, and must reflect the spirit and intent of the design guidelines.
  • Submitting an application does not guarantee a grant or a specific grant amount. The decision of the Project Review Committee is final and not subject to appeal.
  • The applicant is responsible for ensuring the project meets HRM bylaws and obtaining the required permits.

Facade Improvement Program PDF