NewGrow is a program aimed at supporting new and existing businesses in the Brooks Newell Region. Businesses make a pitch to a panel of judges and compete for funding.
Grant Details.
The funding is a grant (not a loan, and no matching funds are required) and is intended to break down barriers and stimulate business growth in the Region, hopefully leading towards better business retention and expansion.
The NewGrow program gives community entrepreneurs and innovators the opportunity to start up or expand a business or create a new product, service or invention through a business plan and public pitch competition. All participants who take part in NewGrow will have a chance to receive an award package including up to $10,000 in funding plus valuable business services, promotions and mentorship.
You can propose any type of business, new product/service or business expansion/enhancement, as long as it meets a few simple requirements as listed in the NewGrow Program Parameters.
Timelines for NewGrow Fall 2024.
Application available online - HERE Judges announced: October, 2024 Application packages due: November 29, 2024 Pitch night: December 6, 2024
Find more information in the NewGrow pamphlet HERE
Questions?
For more information or if you have any questions, email ecdev@brooks.ca.
Business Beautification Program
Brooks Newell Region Economic Development, along with Community Futures Chinook, is pleased to offer businesses in the Brooks Newell Region an opportunity to receive a beautification loan and grant to enhance the appearance of a business.
Businesses can apply for up to $10,000 in funding of which 80% would be an interest free loan and 20% would be a grant. Successful applicants could receive up to an $8,000 loan and a $2,000 grant. Click here for the brochure.
General Overview.
The purpose of this program is to encourage and provide Brooks Newell Region businesses the opportunity to improve the external appearance of their premises, utilizing grant dollars and interest free loans, to a maximum of $10,000.00 (maximum $2,000 grant and $8,000 interest-free loan per applicant). The Brooks Newell Region will provide the grant funds and pay the interest on the loan and the loan will be provided by Community Futures Chinook. Any business within the defined boundaries of the City of Brooks, County of Newell, Town of Bassano and Villages of Duchess and Rosemary may apply.
Eligibility.
The program provides an incentive for local business owners to invest in façade renovations and interior upgrades.
Eligible improvements include:
Signage on the front of business locations
Restoration of exterior finishes and repainting
Repair or replacement of storefront windows and doors
Exterior lighting of the building and signage
Removal and disposal of broken signage and fixtures
Installation and design of awnings and signs
Window display areas and lighting
Removal of exterior materials that cover architectural details
New architectural details such as entryway features and cornices
Creation of new retail bays in an existing building
Addition of patio areas and permanent landscaping elements
Removal of barriers to access for people with disabilities and mobility challenges
The above list is not all-encompassing. Other improvements could be eligible if they meet the objectives of the program and comply with the applicable municipal development regulations.
Program Goals.
Successful projects will strive to make visible improvements to the appearance, curb appeal, design and function of a business by:
Adding curb appeal and variety at the sidewalk level, emphasizing active storefronts, orienting windows and doorways to the street.
Improving the view of shops and restaurants through the use of clear glass, and storefront designs that make use of window display areas.
Coordinating façade improvements with neighbouring buildings and the unique character of the local business area.
Undertaking general cleaning of the building exterior, repainting faded and peeling paint, repairing damaged areas of the façade, and restoring unique architectural features.
How the Program Works.
1. Brooks Newell Region Economic Development, in partnership with Community Futures, is offering the program. 2. Community Futures will accept applications and perform the initial pre-screening including a credit check and review of financial statements. 3. Applications will be forwarded to the Brooks Newell Region including project description, proof of proper permits and other verification. The Brooks Newell Region will approve/decline the project. 4. Upon approval of the project and verification of the loan approval, Community Futures will disburse the project funds to the applicant. 5. Community Futures will work with recipients to confirm the completion of project work through provided receipts and site visits.
Get in Touch.
Anyone interested in the Business Beautification Program can talk to the Brooks Newell Region Economic Development staff via email at ecdev@brooks.ca or by calling 403-362-3333.To apply for the program and receive loan eligibility information, contact Community Futures Chinook at 403-223-2984. Click here to download an application.
Experience Development Fund
Brooks Region Tourism, in partnership with the Joint Services Committee, offers funding for projects that develop new, or enhance existing, tourism experiences and events in the Brooks Region. If you are looking to create or expand a tourism experience or event and you are from one of the following communities you may qualify for assistance from this fund.
City of Brooks, Town of Bassano, Village of Duchess, Village of Rosemary, Siksika Nation, and the County of Newell (Including the hamlets of Bow City, Cassils, Gem, Millicent, Patricia, Rainier, Rolling Hills, Scandia, & Tilley)
