Municipality offers 2021 Food and Beverage Patio Support Program

Support of up to $5,000 available to food and beverage businesses dealing with restrictions on indoor dining

At their meeting on May 25, 2021, Council of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo approved the creation of the Regional Food and Beverage Patio Support Program, offering eligible businesses throughout the region a one-time patio support reimbursement of $5,000 for 2021, based on submitted receipts.

The program will support temporary or permanent improvements to patios across the region as owners deal with restrictions on indoor dining due to COVID-19. Improvements may include installation of decking, paving, fencing, screening, weather protection, or the purchase of furniture, planters, lighting, signage, etc.

• Apply for the Regional Food and Beverage Patio Support Program

The deadline for applications is Sept. 30, 2021. All reimbursement request forms must be received by this date. Projects must be completed prior to submitting a request for reimbursement from the Municipality.

Applicants will be required to fill out the form at the above link to be eligible for reimbursement. Once approved, the Financial Services Department will administer cheques within 30 days.

Read a full list of eligible and ineligible projects costs.

Submission and eligibility requirements for the program include:

• Written description of the patio improvement including cost estimate, project timeline, proof of payment for expenses, and photos of completed work
• Confirm if patio was pre-existing or newly created
• Record of an active Business License for the property; Confirmed registered business owner on file with correct name and address
• Property taxes or payment plan must be current and paid
• Property must have an approved permit allowing for a patio OR completed Temporary Outdoor Patio Program registration; and
• Property must meet all Alberta Health Services and safety requirements.

Support for downtown businesses

The Regional Food and Beverage Patio Support Program is considered separate from the Downtown Revitalization Incentives Program’s (DRIP) Patio Grant. Downtown businesses are only eligible to apply for either grant, not both.