Bruce County's Spruce the Bruce program is offering grants to support local businesses.
Spruce the Bruce has $250,000 to distribute to support local businesses and communities. Funding is available on a first come, first serve basis for businesses that did not receive funding in 2020. Eligible projects for business owners include sidewalk patios, façade improvements, perpendicular signage, awnings and collaborative marketing. Bruce County is funding 100 percent of any project, up to a $4,000 maximum per project. There is also a $30,000 cap for municipalities until July 1st, 2021.
Community groups or municipalities can apply for streetscape beautification, destination infrastructure and community signage grants, which have the same requirements as previous years through Spruce the Bruce. The funding is through the Support the Bruce: Business Sustainability Fund, which was introduced by Bruce County Council in 2020 with 1.75 million dollars committed over two years.
If you have questions about the program or how to apply, email info@sprucethebruce.com or phone 1-800-268- 3838.
Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson says, “As our local businesses and communities continue to feel the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and adapt to restrictions, it’s important they have access to funding to make necessary modifications to services and offerings so they can remain resilient.”
“Main street businesses are hallmarks of our communities and Bruce County is proud to support them through Spruce the Bruce funding,” says Jill Roote, Manager of Economic Development. “Together, we will build our downtowns back up and strengthen our communities, persevering beyond the pandemic.”