Local businesses have long been the backbone of small communities and once again, the town of Westlock and the Westlock Chamber of Commerce are showing support to them by reopening a grant to help cover new or updated signage costs.
The grant officially began welcoming applications on March 1, and will remain open until Sept. 30, 2025, or until grant funding allotments have been distributed. Awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, the grant will enable local businesses that apply to receive direct investment from the town for new or updated exterior signage.
Danielle Pougher, director of planning & development for the Town of Westlock, stressed the overall positive effect this could have on the town, visually and economically.
“Last year’s program was very successful. We were able to fund a total of seven projects of varying sizes. We allocated the full program allotment of $20,000 and the funds were fully allocated in August 2024.”
Successful applicants can be reimbursed for up to 50 per cent of eligible projects costs, to a maximum of $5,000.
Graeme Harrington, president of Westlock and District Chamber of Commerce, spoke highly of the project’s ability to improve the community, adding the appreciation the chamber has for the town on implementing the program and providing the funds. “Businesses with nice prominent signage of course always looks really good for the business itself, but it also gives the whole area a nice fresh look,” he said.
Harrington adds, “There are folks that now can update their signage or do larger updates than they otherwise would have been able to. To me that's a really good thing.”
Certain criteria need to be met for businesses to be considered. They must be located within Westlock, hold a valid business licence, and be in financially good standing with the town.
Signage location and design must be approved by the town prior to installation to qualify. To qualify, applicable signs must also fit into one (or more) of the four categories: wall signs, projecting signs, banner and canopies, or permanent, freestanding signs.
Last year, Stalwart Electric took advantage of this program as part of their renovation at their new location in the west industrial park, said Pougher. “It not only contributed to the overall facelift, but the project as a whole is an excellent example of the internal growth and investment we have seen from our local business community.”
The $5,000 grant states it can cover costs on anything from permits and labour installation costs to professional design creation and sign purchases. If approved, funding will be provided as a one-time, lump sum payment upon completion of the project.
Timing is key for businesses wanting to take advantage of this offer, as any costs acquired prior to a business’ application (apart from professional design services and application fees) are not eligible for reimbursement.
Interested business owners are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply online at www.westlock.ca/p/business-grants.
