Heart of the City

Grant programs are available through Heart of the City (HOTC), focused on revitalizing targeted areas including the downtown core and Le Village in the City of Cornwall. These initiatives support aesthetic improvements, as well as upgrades and renovations to commercial developments and secondary residential units.

The HOTC Community Improvement Plan sets out the principles for implementing revitalization efforts and is part of a broader strategy that includes potential municipal investments in infrastructure development. You can download the HOTC Community Improvement Policy Area Map to see where the program applies.

Grants and incentives

We encourage you to explore the grant and incentive programs available through HOTC. Each program includes details on rationale, specific offerings, eligibility, duration and required municipal resources.

To apply, please email us your completed application or you can drop it off in person to:

100 Water St E
Box 877
Cornwall ON K6H 5T9

Download the HOTC Community Renewal Program Incentives Application

Our applications will help guide you through the process. We encourage you to call us at 613-930-2787 ext. 2105 with any questions.

Available programs

Review the programs available to find the ones that best apply to your project and development goals.

City of Cornwall Rehabilitation Grant

This program reimburses landowners for part or all of the increase in municipal property taxes resulting from building improvements. After upgrading a property, the owner's tax bill goes up. The grant then provides a reimbursement on a sliding scale, either partially or in full, for up to 10 years depending on the specific case.

Building Restoration and Improvement

This program offers landowners a loan, either forgivable or interest-free, to support interior building improvements. The loan covers 50% of total eligible costs, up to a maximum of $30,000. For example, if you spent $20,000 on renovations and heating system upgrades, you would be eligible for a $10,000 loan.

Project Feasibility Study Grant

This program provides landowners with a grant covering 50% of eligible costs, such as feasibility studies or concept drawings, up to a maximum of $7,500. For example, if you spent $1,000 on concept drawings, you would be eligible for a $500 grant.

Facade Improvement and Heritage Sign Grant

This program offers grants to help with building facade improvements or new signage. Funding covers 50% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $10,000 for facade work and $2,000 for signage. For example, if repairs and replacements to a facade, windows, and door total $24,000, including a new sign, you would receive a $12,000 grant.

Municipal Planning and Development Fees Grant

Landowners upgrading or redeveloping a property can receive full reimbursement for eligible costs, such as Official Plan or Zoning Amendments and building permits.

Discretionary Municipal Tipping Fees Grant

This program reduces the cost of dumping non-hazardous waste at the municipal landfill site. The grant covers 50% of the assigned fee, with the total dollar amount determined by the City.

Parking and Landscaping Enhancement

This program offers landowners an interest-free loan to support the development or enhancement of parking, landscaping, or the purchase of amenities such as seating. The maximum loan amount is $25,000, with a 10-year term.

Le Village Residential Facade Improvement Grant

This program is specifically for residential properties in Le Village. It offers grants to help with improvements to building facades, windows, and doors. Funding covers 50% of eligible costs, up to a maximum of $10,000. A minimum grant of $2,000 per property applies. For example, if repairs and replacements to a facade, windows and door total $20,000, you would receive a $10,000 grant.