Cindy McDonald

Businesses and organizations interested in improving the exterior of their properties are encouraged to apply for the 2012 Hometown Manitoba Program. Executive Director of the Portage Chamber Cindy McDonald says the deadline for application submissions is this Friday, March 9th. Basically these funds are available to downtown and main street businesses up to $2000. There's a possible $1000 available from the City and up to $1000 from the Province, for exterior upgrades and landscaping.

McDonald notes past response has been good as there's been about $56,000 approved over the last couple of years, just through the province, and $50,000 from the City. She adds businesses are required to put in $1,000 of their own money and could receive up to $2000, so it's a win/win for everyone.

McDonald feels the more attractive our business sector looks the better our city looks. She says who doesn't  want people to drive down Saskatchewan Ave, or any part in the city, and comment on how well kept it looks. McDonald adds when you have places that are appealing people tend to take more pride in where they live which is also why it's a great program.

McDonald stresses the deadline for submissions is this Friday and they can be dropped off at the Chamber office. She adds applications are available at the Chamber office, City Hall, or in the reception area at Portage Credit Union. They can also be accessed through the Chamber website.

Businesses or organizations, which includes non profits, who are located 2 blocks North and South of, and on Saskatchewan Ave, or on Provincial Highway 240, within city limits, are eligible.