Empowering Startups and Communities to Grow Together
The Merge Program - Resources for Startups
The goal of the MERGE Program is to intertwine community well-being with business prosperity, the MERGE Program aims to foster resilient local economies through targeted investments in community infrastructure, education, and empowerment.
MERGE Program’s mission is to create a thriving business ecosystem that supports both community and business growth.
Request For Proposals (RFP) are coming soon!
Please check back for a full list of RFP’s on March 25
Completed MERGE Projects
See the projects that have been completed in 2025
RFP 001: Enhancing Accessible and Sustainable Transportation
Municipality: Grand Lake
Grand Lake seeks innovative solutions to improve accessible and sustainable transportation for residents without personal vehicles. This initiative addresses barriers for seniors, low-income families, and individuals with limited mobility, focusing on eco-friendly and community-centered solutions.
Highlights:
Develop a community-based transportation network with a reliable schedule
Prioritize eco-friendly options and innovative solutions
Budget: Up to $25,000
Help Grand Lake improve connectivity, access essential services, and foster sustainability.
RFP 002: Enhancing Land Identification for Strategic Growth
Municipality: Hanwell & Central York
Hanwell and Central York are looking for innovative tools to streamline the process of identifying suitable land for projects like business spaces, affordable housing, and recreational facilities.
Highlights:
Develop a platform for real-time access to land data
Improve decision-making for strategic growth projects
Budget: Up to $25,000
Your solution could shape the future of land management in these communities.
RFP 003: Enhancing Recreational and Tourism Opportunities
Municipality: Arcadia
Arcadia seeks a development plan to maximize the tourism potential of its Harts Lake properties. The project focuses on eco-tourism, inclusive water sports, and creating a vibrant recreational destination.
Highlights:
Design facilities like parking, picnic areas, washrooms, and docks
Integrate environmental stewardship and accessibility
Budget: Up to $25,000
Contribute to Arcadia’s vision of becoming a regional recreational hub.
RFP 004: Ensuring Sustainable Water Access for Community Growth
Municipality: Arcadia & Hanwell
Arcadia and Hanwell are seeking innovative solutions for sustainable water resource management to support their growing populations and development needs.
Highlights:
Implement scalable and eco-friendly water management solutions
Protect natural resources while accommodating growth
Budget: Up to $25,000
Be part of a project that ensures long-term water sustainability for these communities.
RFP 005: Enhancing Blue Trail-Based Economic Development and Connectivity
Municipality: Capital Region Service Commission
Capital Region Service Commission is seeking innovative solutions to enhance economic development and connectivity through blue trails. This initiative aims to leverage waterways as a driver for tourism, recreation, and local business growth while improving accessibility and community engagement.
Highlights:
Develop strategies to increase tourism and local business activity along blue trails
Improve infrastructure and accessibility to water-based recreation
Foster environmental sustainability and community partnerships
Budget: Up to $25,000
Help the Capital Region Service Commission strengthen its blue trail network, boost local economic activity, and enhance regional connectivity.
RFP 006: Identifying Water Sources
Municipalities: Arcadia & Hanwell
Arcadia and Hanwell seek innovative approaches to identify and secure reliable water sources for their communities. This initiative addresses water scarcity concerns, ensuring long-term sustainability and resilience for residents and businesses.
Highlights:
Assess and map potential water sources within municipal boundaries
Develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions for water access
Address regulatory and environmental considerations
Budget: Up to $25,000
Support Arcadia & Hanwell in securing sustainable water sources to meet future community needs.