​Township partners with Bruce County to launch Spruce the Bruce program

The Township of Huron-Kinloss has partnered with Bruce County to launch the Spruce the Bruce program, Feb. 1.

This program provides grant funding to help strengthen communities and maintain and enhance downtown businesses. Eligible business owners and property owners are encouraged to learn more and apply at sprucethebruce.com.

The township is collaborating with the county on support for businesses, offering 33-per-cent matched funding on select grants, and capitalizing on the Downtown Improvement grant program, to allow for maximum investment in the communities.

“We have seen significant investment in our communities by local businesses that have taken advantage of this funding partnership with the county,” said Amy Irwin, township economic development officer. “We’re proud to continue to support our business community by offering collaborative Spruce the Bruce and Huron-Kinloss Downtown Improvement program grants in 2025.”

Bruce County supports a maximum of 50 per cent of eligible costs, or one-third with municipal matching funds on select grants. Properties that have received Spruce the Bruce funding in past years may be eligible for funding in 2025 for projects. Funding is available on a first-come, first-serve basis to eligible businesses and property owners.

“We’re excited to partner with Huron-Kinloss to be able to support businesses and community partners to help revitalize properties and build vibrant communities through Spruce the Bruce,” says county economic development manager Jeff Loney. “These resources support the growth of our communities and public experiences in Bruce County.”

Learn more about the grant criteria below and on-line at sprucethebruce.com.

Grants available for eligible business and property owners:
 

• Façade Building Improvement
• Fascia Signage
• Perpendicular Signage
• Awning
• Patio Installation
• Community Marketing
• Agri-Food Innovation
• Business Accessibility Adaptability
• Product and Experience Development
• Residential Improvement

Note: Properties must be located within a Community Improvement Project Area (CIPA) identified in an active Community Improvement Plan (CIP).

Grants available for eligible municipalities, community partners, not-for-profits and charitable organizations:
 

• Community Marketing
• Streetscape Beautification
• Community Signage
• Destination Infrastructure and Active Transportation 

Note: Communities must have a community brand toolkit in place to be eligible.

Apply to Spruce the Bruce today.