The City of Campbell River is updating its Downtown Renewal Grant program in an effort to better support local businesses and revitalize the city’s downtown core.

Council recently received a report outlining changes to the program, which has been refreshed in partnership with the Downtown Campbell River Business Improvement Association.

The new approach combines several underused grant programs into one streamlined funding program with clearer goals and outcomes.

The City says the updated grant is designed to make it easier for businesses to apply while improving support for downtown improvement projects.

Early results are already showing increased interest and more applications, suggesting the revised program is better aligned with the needs of local business owners.

The renewed grant program is also intended to strengthen the City’s partnership with the Downtown B-I-A, improve administrative efficiency, and support council priorities tied to economic growth, safety, and community connection.

Officials say the changes are intended to help create a more vibrant and welcoming downtown Campbell River.