Supporting the development of student housing in downtown Edmonton.
Downtown Edmonton hosts thousands of post-secondary students who bring energy, ambition and opportunity to the city’s core. To support their success and downtown revitalization, we’re launching a program that aims to kick-start student housing developments in the heart of the city.
The $15-million Downtown Student Housing Incentive will support successful applicants with the construction costs for housing built to meet student needs. Pending approval from Edmonton City Council, projects can receive up to $30,000 in capital costs per unit of student housing.
This program is part of the Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan, which supports the creation of housing that the market will not provide on its own, including multi-unit and non-market affordable housing.
Application Period
The Downtown Student Housing Incentive is expected to begin accepting applications in August 2025.
Email questions to studenthousing@edmonton.ca, and subscribe to the Building Edmonton Newsletter for updates.
Objectives
A growing number of students are attending post-secondary institutions that have expanded in downtown Edmonton. More dedicated housing for students in this area can help address affordability concerns and provide better access to classrooms, transit, businesses and amenities in the core.
New residential units can also help strengthen the downtown community, boost economic activity and reduce the amount of underdeveloped or vacant land.
This program will prioritize proposals for:
- New buildings
- Developments on infill-ready sites
- Projects in the Warehouse Park area