Masset council has approved an application for up to $20,000 in funding through the Northern Development Initiative Trust (NDIT) to continue its Business Façade Improvement Program in 2027.
The decision was made at the Oct. 26 council meeting and confirmed by chief administrative officer Joshua Humphries.
If the funding application is successful, the program will provide matching grants to local businesses and non-profit organizations looking to improve the exterior appearance of their commercial properties.
Under the proposed 2027 guidelines, eligible businesses could receive reimbursement for 50 per cent of approved façade improvements, up to a maximum of $5,000 per building.
Eligible improvements include exterior painting, siding, lighting, windows, doors, signage, awnings and accessibility improvements. Projects must receive approval before construction begins, and applicants must meet the Village's program requirements.
The program also provides support for home-based businesses without a commercial storefront. These businesses could qualify for reimbursement of 50 per cent of eligible wayfinding signage costs, up to $500.
According to the staff report, Masset received $15,000 in program funding in 2026 and approved approximately $13,500 in grants to local businesses.
The 2027 program is expected to operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with applications scheduled to open Feb. 15 and close Oct. 18, 2027, subject to funding approval.
Successful applicants must complete their projects and provide proof of expenses before receiving reimbursement.
The Village's application to NDIT has been authorized by council, but funding for 2027 has not yet been confirmed.