Downtown Transformation Initiative

SUMMERSIDE, PE - The City of Summerside is taking a major step toward strengthening and revitalizing its downtown following City Council's approval of the GROW Program 2.0, a new Downtown Transformation initiative that will invest $1 million in grants and incentives to support redevelopment, business growth, property improvements, and long-term revitalization.

The new program represents one of the City's most significant direct investments in downtownbusinesses and private-sector revitalization. It is designed to address key challenges, encourage private investment, and help create a stronger, more vibrant downtown for residents, businesses and visitors.

The GROW Program 2.0 will feature seven funding streams designed to support downtown revitalization, including:

Professional Services Grant
Vacant Space Activation Grant
Barrier Removal Fund
Second Floor Residential Activation
Public Realm Investment
Innovation and Pop-Up Activation Space
Paint the Town: Downtown Façade and Streetscape Refresh

Detailed program guidelines and application information will be released in the coming weeks, with interested property owners, businesses and prospective applicants encouraged to stay tuned for the launch of the application portal.

City administration will immediately begin implementation of the program and will establish an internal staff working group to finalize the funding.

"Downtown Summerside is the heart of our community, and Council is committed to ensuring it remains a vibrant place to live, work, invest and visit," said Mayor Dan Kutcher. "GROW Program 2.0 is about helping transform our downtown. By investing directly in our business community and supporting new opportunities, we're building a downtown that's more vibrant, more welcoming and, ultimately, more fun for everyone who lives here and visits Summerside."

Deputy Mayor Cory Snow said the program reflects Council's commitment to taking meaningful action.

"This initiative is about creating momentum," said Snow. "We've listened to our community, we've examined the opportunities and challenges facing our downtown, and now we're moving forward with a program that will help stimulate investment and support revitalization for years to come."

Chief Administrative Officer JP Desrosiers said City staff are prepared to move quickly to implement Council's direction.

"We are pleased that Council has endorsed the recommended funding programs that were designed by our data driven research. Staff has done a great job of identifying areas of need and we’re excited and ready to begin the work of bringing this program to life," said Desrosiers. "Over the coming weeks, staff will finalize the implementation framework so funding can begin flowing as quickly as possible. We look forward to working with businesses, property owners and community partners as this initiative gets underway."

Further information, including program details, eligibility requirements and application timelines, will be announced as implementation progresses.

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The City of Summerside is located in Prince County, Prince Edward Island, Canada with the mindset of promoting and advancing its small city with big opportunities. Summerside offers a diverse market and skilled workforce and is a leader in sectors such as green energy, sport tourism and rapid economic growth.

To learn more, please visit www.summerside.ca or connect through Facebook, X, LinkedIn, orInstagram.

Tanner Doiron
Director, Communications & Events (Acting)
City of Summerside
Department of Communications & Events
[email protected]