Media Release
Bruce County, Ontario: The Spruce the Bruce community development program, in its 17th year, is launching February 2, 2026 in collaboration with eight municipalities in Bruce County. Spruce the Bruce brings partners together to create a vision for future growth and development through the provision of tools and grants.
This program provides over $125,000 in grant funding to eligible businesses, property owners and community partners to revitalize and grow local downtown businesses, commercial areas and communities.
“The Spruce the Bruce Program is back in collaboration with our local municipalities, empowering businesses, property owners and local partners to invest in our future,” says Bruce County Warden, Luke Charbonneau.
There are 13 grant categories available for applicants within eligible Community Improvement Project Areas (CIPAs), supporting a wide range of projects and enhancements. Some of the most popular categories include:
• Improvements to local downtown commercial property storefronts
• Infrastructure on agricultural land
• Removing barriers to accessibility on commercial properties
• Community signage
The Spruce the Bruce program offers funding for up to 50% of eligible costs (excluding taxes, and subject to a maximum per grant).
“Spruce the Bruce helps build vibrant, welcoming and inclusive communities” says Bruce County’s Economic Development Manager, Heather Hyde. “This diverse program also supports our agricultural and tourism sectors while addressing local economic challenges faced today.”
Past recipients of Spruce the Bruce funding may be eligible for additional support for new project elements. The program is in high-demand each year, and there’s strong recommendation to submit applications early, since funding approvals are on a first-come-first-served basis for complete applications.
Grants for eligible businesses and property owners:
-Agri-Food Innovation
-Awning
-Business Accessibility Adaptability
-Community Marketing
-Façade Building Improvement
-Fascia Signage
-Patio Installation
-Perpendicular Signage
-Product and Experience Development
-Residential Improvement
Grants for eligible municipalities, community partners, not-for-profits and charitable organizations with a mandate to service visitors:
-Community Marketing
-Community Signage
-Destination Infrastructure and Active Transportation.
-Streetscape Beautification
Note: Each grant has specific eligibility criteria. The property or project must be located within an eligible Community Improvement Project Area (CIPA) and identified in an active Community Improvement Plan (CIP). Some grants require the use of eligible Façade Guidelines, and some grants require the use of eligible Community Branding. All eligibility and accompanying documents are available through the Spruce the Bruce webpages.
Learn more and apply online at sprucethebruce.com.
