The City of Toronto has announced the CAFETO Grant, a funding program designed to help commercial and industrial property owners and tenants improve the appearance and functionality of curb lane cafés, commercial patios, and sidewalk cafés across the city.

Through the program, eligible applicants can receive funding to support upgrades that enhance outdoor dining spaces and improve accessibility for customers.

Available Funding

Selected recipients may receive:

• Up to $5,000 in funding, covering one-half of the cost of eligible property or site improvements (based on a minimum of $10,000 in improvements).

• Up to $2,500 in additional funding for exterior accessibility improvements such as temporary platforms level with the sidewalk for curb lane cafés, accessible ramps for patios on private property, handrails, and other exterior accessibility devices that meet Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) design standards.

• Up to $1,000 to cover architectural and engineering services from an AODA specialist or a Building Code Identification Number (BCIN) registered designer.

Funding may be used for patio improvements on private property as well as spaces on public property where a valid permit has been issued.

Eligibility

The CAFETO Grant is available to owners and tenants of street-level commercial and industrial properties in Toronto who are looking to improve exterior spaces associated with their business.

However, the program does not apply to places of worship, institutional buildings, or residential properties.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the City of Toronto’s website to review the full eligibility requirements and program guidelines before applying.

How to Apply

Eligible applicants can apply by visiting the City of Toronto website and submitting their application before the deadline.

Deadline

Applications close May 7th, 2026.

As always, we’ll continue to share relevant grants, funding opportunities, and programs for entrepreneurs and small businesses across Canada.

For more updates on opportunities, events, and community initiatives across Toronto and the GTA, follow efosa on Instagram.