Program Overview

The Glebe BIA (GBIA) Façade Improvement Grant Program is intended to support the enhancement of building façades within the Glebe commercial district. The program provides financial assistance to eligible property owners and business tenants to improve the visual quality, functionality, and streetscape presence of retail and commercial buildings.

A façade is defined as the principal exterior face or faces of a building that front a public street and are visible from the public right-of-way.

The program aims to: 

– Improve the overall appearance and character of the Glebe’s commercial area
– Encourage private investment in building improvements
– Enhance the pedestrian experience and strengthen the streetscape

For the second round of the Grant program, the GBIA has allocated $20,000 in total funding. Grants are provided as a reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible costs, to a maximum of $2,000 per building or tenant, subject to available funds.

Eligible Improvements

Improvements must contribute meaningfully to the overall enhancement of the building façade and streetscape. Eligible improvements include:

– Façade surface treatments, including painting, siding, stucco, stone, or masonry

– Brick repointing

Funding is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to design merit and eligibility.

Application Deadline: July 31, 2026

Before You Begin

Review the Program Guidelines and Checklist carefully before submitting your application. These documents outline the eligibility requirements, required supporting materials and the steps involved in the application process. Reviewing them in advance will help ensure that your application is complete and meets all program criteria, reducing the likelihood of delays or missing information.

2026 Facade Improvement Program Application Form

"*" indicates required fields

About You

First Name*

Last Name*

Phone Number*

Email*

Address*

Are you the Property Owner?*

Yes

No

If you answer "No", please submit owner's information below.

Property Owner's Name

Property Owner's Phone Number

Property Owner's Address

Property Owner's Email

Owner's Authorization Form

Download the form and attach signed copy.

Accepted file types: pdf, Max. file size: 50 MB.

Does the Property Owner have an Agent?

Yes

No

If you answer "Yes", please submit the agent's information below.

Agent's Name

Agent's Phone Number

Agent's Address

Agent's Email

About the Property

Property Address*

Assessment Roll Number*

Existing Property Use*

Is the property designated under the Ontario Heritage Act?*

Yes

No

Are property taxes paid in full on this property?*

Yes

No

Are there any outstanding work orders on this property?*

Yes

No

Describe Your Project*

Describe the nature of the business, the proposed facade improvements that are eligible for funding under this program, and how the improvements enhance the building and streetscape.

File Upload*

Upload the following: Minimum three (3) clear “before” photographs showing: Full building façade, surrounding context, and any areas proposed for improvement.

Drop files here or Select files

Accepted file types: jpg, png, pdf, Max. file size: 50 MB.

Construction Cost Estimates

In addition to information provided below, please attach two detailed cost estimates (including taxes) from licensed contractors for work to be performed.

Name of Contractor 1*

Construction Estimate ($) 1*

Name of Contractor 2*

Construction Estimate ($) 2*

Total Grant Requested ($)*

(maximum $2,000)

File Upload*

Attach two detailed cost estimates (including taxes) from licensed contractors for work to be performed. Are any City of Ottawa permits required? Attach copies of permit applications if available at the time of submission.

Drop files here or Select files

Accepted file types: jpg, png, pdf, Max. file size: 50 MB.

Construction Schedule*

What is the approximate start and end date of construction?

Other Source of Funds*

Has this property received grants/loans or other financial assistance from the City or other level of government.

Yes

No

Untitled*

If yes, please specify type and amount of financial assistance received:

Certificate of Applicant*

I have read and fully understand the program guidelines and procedures of the Glebe BIA Façade Improvement Grant Program and have provided all requested information to the best of my knowledge.

Yes, I understand.