September 25, 2025

Shelburne, NS — The Municipality of the District of Shelburne (MODS) is pleased to announce the approval of its Affordable Housing Grant Policy, a major step forward in helping address housing needs across the community.

This new policy establishes a framework for providing financial assistance to developers and non-profit organizations to create more safe, accessible, and affordable housing units within the Municipality.

This Affordable Housing Grant Policy is made possible with the support of the Government of Canada’s Housing Accelerator Fund 2, contributing $1.54 million to help the Municipality fast-track housing solutions. This support allows MODS to dedicate resources to projects that will have a meaningful impact on housing availability and community growth.

Supporting Community Growth
The Affordable Housing Grant Policy is designed to:
• Increase the availability of affordable housing within MODS.
• Promote mixed-income neighborhoods to support vibrant, economically diverse communities.
• Leverage private and non-profit investment to maximize impact.
• Strengthen local economic development and community stability.
• Encourage flexible housing types, including multi-unit developments and backyard suites, to meet community needs.

How the Program Works
Under the new policy, eligible applicants — including non-profits and for-profit developers — can apply for grants of up to $10,000 per affordable housing unit, with municipal funding covering up to 50% of construction costs. Additional funding may be considered for projects that deliver strong community benefits, such as mixed-market housing or deeply affordable units. Also included under this policy is support for innovative small-scale solutions like backyard suites.

Grant applications will be assessed based on project readiness, community benefits, affordability level, sustainability, and accessibility. Successful applicants must commit to
maintaining affordability for a minimum of 20 years and will sign a contribution agreement with the Municipality to ensure compliance and accountability.

“We know that housing costs are one of the biggest challenges for people in our community,” said Penny Smith, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Shelburne. “This new policy allows us to work with non-profit organizations and builders to create more affordable housing, while also encouraging mixed-income developments that are inclusive, sustainable and reflective of the broader community”.

Quotes from our Federal Partners
“Our Government is committed to giving local governments the support they need to drive housing supply and bring down housing costs. Shelburne is part of more than 200 municipalities across Canada that are committed to cutting red tape and fast-tracking housing. It’s an example of what’s possible when governments work together. It’s also another step forward in our bold, ambitious plan to build Canada strong.” –The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada

“The Affordable Grant Policy announced today will make a real difference for people here in Shelburne. With every project like this one, we’re getting closer to the country we want – one where everyone has a safe, affordable place to call home.” — Jessica Fancy, Member of Parliament for South Shore—St. Margarets

Media Contact
Warren MacLeod
Chief Administrative Officer
warren.macleod@municipalityofshelburne.ca