PICTOU
Pictou businesses wanting to make a good first impression by improving the façade of their building can now apply for some financial assistance.
The Town of Pictou and Pictou Business and Marketing Society has introduced a downtown façade improvement program that will see successful applicants receive up to $2,500 in funding to improve their storefronts.
“Many communities have introduced similar programs as an economic development tool for business retention,” said Pictou Coun. Malcolm Houser who is also the town’s representative with the Pictou Business and Marketing Society. “Façade improvement will beautify the streetscape and enhance our community image and lifestyle as citizens have greater pride in our downtown and waterfront areas.”
Commercial establishments that contribute towards the Business Development District tax will be eligible to apply for funding from as little as $100 up to $2,500 to dress up their storefronts and exterior store signage. The program is designed to encourage and assist property owners and/or their business tenants to renovate or upgrade those portions of their business that are readily visible to the public from the street.
“It focuses on economic renewal through increased local trade and commerce, increased employment, tax income and tourism. The program will assist owners of existing businesses to maintain their long-term viability and to assist property owners of vacant properties by improving the marketability of their property in order to secure tenants,” said Houser.
The total amount available for the Downtown Façade Improvement Program through the Town of Pictou and the Pictou Business and Marketing Society is $20,000.
Houser said the town has announced the town office will be painted, in addition to the program, to further encourage participation. The town will be handling the application process and applications are available immediately with the program officially launching May 15. Applications are available at the town office or by email.
