Town of Bracebridge introduces updated Community Improvement Plan funding programs for 2026–2030

BRACEBRIDGE, ON (February 19, 2026) – As plans get underway for building upgrades and improvements in the year ahead, the Town is inviting property owners, businesses, and investors to take advantage of updated financial incentive programs available through the Community Improvement Plan (CIP).

The CIP is a long-standing economic development tool that helps stimulate private investment, support local businesses, and encourage revitalization in key areas of the community. Through a range of grants and interest-free loans, the CIP helps offset the cost of improvements, renovations, energy upgrades, and redevelopment projects that strengthen the local economy and enhance the appearance and function of commercial and mixed-use properties.

Expanded opportunities for applicants
New for 2026, several enhancements have been made to better align with current economic conditions and community priorities. Notably, eligibility for the Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant/Loan Program has been expanded beyond industrial properties to also include commercial and mixed-use buildings, supporting local climate action and helping businesses reduce long-term operating costs.

Hotels and motels located within the municipal boundaries of Bracebridge are now eligible for several improvement programs, including building, property, façade, and signage incentives. This change supports reinvestment in existing accommodation properties and strengthens Bracebridge’s tourism sector by encouraging facility upgrades and revitalization.

In addition, eligibility for façade improvements has been broadened within the Central Business District to include all commercial, institutional and mixed-use buildings, supporting downtown beautification, heritage restoration, and enhanced streetscapes.

Lastly, new application processes have been put in place to streamline reviews and ensure decisions are made within a business-friendly timeframe of two to three weeks.

Available funding programs
Under the 2026–2030 CIP Implementation Guidelines, eligible applicants may apply for financial incentives through the following programs:

• Building Improvement Grant/Loan;
• Energy Efficiency Retrofit Grant/Loan;
• Façade Improvement Grant/Loan;
• Housing Grant/Loan;
• Property Improvement Grant/Loan;
• Signage Improvement Grant; and
• Tax Increment Equivalent Grant (TIEG) for large-scale redevelopment projects on identified priority sites.

These programs are designed to reduce financial barriers, leverage private investment, and encourage improvements that contribute to a vibrant, accessible, and economically resilient community.

Supporting business growth and investment
Over the past five years, the Town’s CIP program has helped leverage millions of dollars in private-sector investment, delivering strong returns while supporting local businesses, property renewal, and redevelopment in strategic areas. In 2025, the CIP provided over $59,000 in grants to 25 local projects, leveraging more than $480,000 in private investment. Highlights include:

• Signage improvements at 13 local businesses;
• Energy efficiency retrofits at 505 Hwy 118 West, helping to revive a long-standing vacant landmark and transform it into a modernized commercial space, and;
• Building and property improvement at 9-17 Manitoba Street including roof work and parking lot resurfacing at prominent properties within the Central Business District.

Eligible property owners and tenants are encouraged to explore the available programs and connect with Town staff early in the planning process to determine eligibility and discuss potential projects.

To learn more about the 2026 Community Improvement Plan, including eligibility criteria and how to apply, visit bracebridge.ca/CIP or contact the Town’s Economic Development team at ecdev@bracebridge.ca.


Quotes
“The updated CIP guidelines make it easier for businesses and property owners to invest in their buildings and their future. These programs help improve our downtown, support local jobs, enhance the visitor experience, and encourage long-term economic growth across Bracebridge.”
-    Rick Maloney, Mayor, Town of Bracebridge