The My Main Street Local Business Accelerator is a community economic development program designed to revitalize main streets, providing economic opportunities for residents, entrepreneurs, and existing businesses. The program is currently supporting 65 main streets in southern Ontario, providing them with data insights and a dedicated My Main Street Ambassador to support local businesses. Businesses in participating communities have access to a range of supports, including a $10,000 grant that can be used to cover the eligible expenses.
What the $10,000 grant be used for?
The funds must be used to cover costs (net HST) related to the following categories:
- Equipment
- Leasehold Improvements
- External Façade Renovations
- Inventory Technology
- Marketing
- Includes costs related to collateral marketing materials (flyers, brochures, business cards, newspaper ads); electronic marketing materials (websites, social media ads or posts, email campaigns, content articles, blogs or paid online advertising); or other activities (networking, trade shows, sponsorships, editorials, articles, referrals, testimonials, sales promotions, discounts, contests, samples) necessary to get the attention of potential customers and keep current customers engaged with your business and products/services.
- Lease (for ‘new’ businesses only)
To learn more about the program and how to apply, visit https://mymainstreet.ca/accelerator-program/business-funding-support.