Chinatown Initiatives

Chinatown Active Storefronts Strategy

Attracting stable and viable businesses into Chinatown is identified by the community as a critical strategy to make the neighbourhood more attractive to residents and visitors. Six storefronts were approved for activation with support from the Great Beginnings Program and the City. The Program focuses on recruiting new businesses that support Chinatown's unique character and identity. New businesses help to draw new visitors into Chinatown, and will bring more vibrancy to the area during the day and night.

This project is improving building facades and creating a more active, attractive streetscape. Coupled with reduced lease rates, the project promises to attract new, viable longer-term businesses.

The project also includes social benefits, including procurement, on-the-job skills training, and employment for residents of the DTES.