Market Update: We break down the business implications, market impact, and expert insights related to Market Update: Dining District Program – City of Toronto – Full Analysis.
Objective
Stream One supports practical, ready-to-implement projects that enhance outdoor dining opportunities for eating establishments.
The program focuses on targeted public realm improvements and minor enhancements that strengthen local dining areas, build on planned or existing activations, and improve the overall appearance and functionality of outdoor café environments while supporting main street vitality.
Funding Available
Funding for BIAs, not-for-profit organizations and business associations to cover one-half of the costs of eligible projects up to a maximum amount of $5,000 (based on a minimum of $10,000 of improvements).
Eligibility
Applicants must have working relations with their local business community and propose projects that will increase main street vibrancy.
Eligible Applicants
- BIAs
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Business associations
Ineligible Applicants
For-profit businesses including:
- Sole proprietorships
- Partnerships
- Corporations
Eligible Projects
Project that supports the public realm activations, minor streetscape design work or related improvements that enhance outdoor dining on the main street or temporary activations in plazas to support restaurants.
Examples include:
- Improvements in the public realm, including;
- Installation of temporary platforms for public parklets
- Outdoor dining related furniture and streetscape enhancements
- Temporary activations on private or public property
- Beautification for neighbourhood improvements such as planters, plants, soil, watering services and maintenance costs
- Enhancements that build on planned or existing outdoor dining activations
- Limited Staffing related to the public activations.
Ineligible Projects
Project Evaluation
This stream is ideal for organizations looking to implement manageable, ready-to-deliver improvements that enhance existing or planned activations and contribute to vibrant, welcoming streetscapes.
Please note that geographic location and readiness will be considered during the review to ensure funding is distributed across the city and will be used in a timely manner.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted from 9 a.m. on March 25 to April 22 at 4 p.m. through an online application. The application will be available here when open.
For questions about the Dining District Program, please contact DiningDistrict@toronto.ca.
Objective
Stream Two supports larger-scale, high-impact projects that significantly enhance outdoor dining experiences and attract visitors to Toronto’s restaurant neighbourhoods. This competitive funding stream prioritizes creative, well-developed proposals that animate public spaces, support restaurants and bars, and generate measurable economic and community impact citywide.
Funding Available
Funding for BIAs, business associations and not-for-profit organizations to cover eligible project costs up to a maximum of $100,000.
This stream is competitive and funding is awarded to projects that demonstrate strong feasibility, realistic budgets and timelines, and clear community and business impact.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- BIAs
- Not-for-profit organizations
- Business associations
Ineligible Applicants
For-profit businesses including:
- Sole proprietorships
- Partnerships
- Corporations
Eligible Projects
Projects must support public realm improvements or temporary activations that enhance outdoor dining and drive visitation. Examples include:
- Installation of temporary platforms for public parklets
- Outdoor dining-related streetscape enhancements
- Public realm improvements that enhance planned or existing activations
- Temporary activations on private property supporting restaurants and bars
- Innovative programming or campaigns designed to attract new diners
- Creative placemaking initiatives that animate dining districts
To be eligible for this round of funding, projects must also:
- Have all expenses incurred by and reported on to City staff by the date specified in the funding agreement. Activations can continue to stay in place after the reporting is submitted.
Preference is given to projects that:
- Are focused in areas where sidewalk and curb lane cafés are not highly concentrated, particularly in Scarborough, North York and Etobicoke.
Please note, this program stream is highly competitive and focuses on improving the outdoor dining experience citywide. Proposals are prioritized when they demonstrate creative strategies to enliven outdoor dining areas, along with feasibility assessments, realistic timelines and budgets, and initiatives that make a tangible impact on supporting local businesses and fostering community engagement.
Ineligible Projects
How to Apply
Applications are currently closed but will open in May 2026.
For questions about the Dining District Program, please contact DiningDistrict@toronto.ca.