Entrepreneurs who want to set up business in Meaford, but don’t have enough money for the rent, will soon be able to take advantage of a program called ReNew Meaford.
Councillors have voted to accept a committee of the whole recommendation to set up and incorporate the Meaford Arts and Business Association.
The association will then set up and run the ReNew Meaford program through an eight-member board of directors.
That board will include one member each from the Meaford Business Improvement Area, Meaford Chamber of Commerce and the Municipality. Councillor Shirley Keaveney will represent Meaford council.
Meaford CAO Denyse Morrissey says the goal of the ReNew Meaford program is to provide short-term rental access to downtown storefronts at an affordable price.
This will be done through a contractual partnership with participating building owners and Renew Meaford.
Morrissey says the program provides the foundation for owners of new businesses to gain exposure, test and build their business while filling a vacant storefront in urban Meaford.
