Storefront Grant

Overview

Mountain View Power is proud to announce its Uptowne Storefront Beautification Program aimed at enhancing the charm and vibrancy of the Uptowne core. A total of $20,000 in funding is available with a maximum of $3,000 per allocation. This initiative is part of Mountain View Power’s efforts to support local businesses and create an inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. 

View the Mountain View Power Launches Storefront Beautification Grant in Uptowne Olds News Release

Program Goals

The Program works with other revitalization initiatives to: 

• Promote the viability of Uptowne retail and commercial businesses. 
• Contribute to the quality of life of residents, workers, and visitors to the Town. Make the Uptowne shopping streets more inviting and interesting places to work and shop; and, 
• Build local community and civic pride among the business community and residents of Olds.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: April 1, 2025
• Award Notification: April 30, 2025 
• Project Completion Deadline: October 31, 2025 

Eligibility Criteria

To apply, applicants must: 

1. Be the owner or tenant of a storefront within the designated Uptowne core boundaries. 
2. Propose a project that contributes to the beautification of their storefront, such as: 
• Fresh paint or visual improvement 
• Updated signage 
• Lighting 
• Exterior walls 
• Awnings/Canopies 
• Landscaping, flower boxes, or planters 
3. Commit to completing the proposed project within six (6) months of grant approval, funds will be dispersed once the project is completed. 
4. Demonstrate alignment with Mountain View Power’s vision of creating a vibrant and aesthetically pleasing uptown environment 

Eligible Improvements

• Lighting 
• Exterior walls 
• Windows 
• Doors 
• Storefronts 
• Entryways 
• Awnings/Canopies 
• Exterior architectural and/or artistic features 
• Landscaping 
• Facade cleaning and painting 
• Signage

The above list is not all-encompassing. Other improvements could be eligible if they meet the objectives of the program, comply with Town development regulations. The Planning & Development department will be consulted to ensure proper compliance with the Town of Olds Land Use Bylaw. 

Grant Application Process

Step 1: Application Submission

Applicants must complete and submit the Storefront Beatification Program Grant Online Application along with. all required documents by the submission deadline of April 1, 2025. Completed applications can be delivered to the Town Administration Office or emailed to Gary at ggaudette@olds.ca

Required Information

1. Applicant Information: 
• Business Name 
• Contact Person 
• Address 
• Phone 
• Email 
2. Project Description: Attach as a separate sheet 
• Provide a detailed description of the beautification project, including goals and expected outcomes.
• Attach visual aids such as sketches, renderings, or examples of similar projects. 
• Attach a before photo of the project to be completed. 
3. Budget: 
• Provide an estimated budget for the project. 
4. Timeline: 
• Include key milestones and expected completion date. 
5. Supporting Documents: 
• Proof of storefront ownership or lease agreement. 
• If it’s a leased building, then a signed letter of permission from the owner of the building to do such improvements is required. 
• Photos of the current storefront. 

Step 2: Review Process

The MVP Storefront Beautification Committee made up of local businesspeople will review applications based on: 

• Creativity and impact of the proposed project. 

• Feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the project. 

• Contribution to the overall aesthetic of the uptown core. 

Step 3: Award Notification

Successful applicants will be notified by April 30, 2025. 

Grant Conditions

1. Funds will be dispersed once the project is finished and must be used exclusively for the approved project. 
2. Recipients must provide a final report, including photos of completed work and receipts for expenses, within 30 days of project completion.
3. The Storefront Beautification Grant Committee reserves the right to use images of completed projects for promotional purposes. 
4. A submission does not guarantee funding approval.  
5. All changes must be compliant with the current Land Use Bylaw from the Town of Olds. 

For Questions or More Information Contact:

Gary Gaudette, Economic Development Officer 
ggaudette@olds.ca 

Guy Lapointe, Director of Community Services 
glapointe@olds.ca 

Be part of the great things Mountain View Power is doing in the community by signing up for your electricity and gas through MVP. Give back to your community without spending anything extra! Profits generated are reinvested locally. Support this and other great initiatives by signing up today: 
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