The Funding Opportunities Update is created by the Commissioner's Office of the Social Services Department at the Region of Durham.

We know that a strong, well-funded, non-profit and charitable sector can better meet the needs of Durham’s diverse communities. We are committed to sharing information about grants and funding opportunities with our community partners.

Please share this newsletter with your own networks and contacts.

Want to sign-up for the newsletter OR want to be removed from our mailing list? Please let us know: email us at funding@durham.ca.

Visit our Funding Resources page - you’ll find links to resources to help with your grant applications, as well as notices for funding opportunities that open between our eNewsletters.

Important Tip! Register your organization online at the Transfer Payment Ontario website. This site provides information about available grants, how to apply for grants and how to check the status of your application.

Do you struggle to find local data to support your grant applications?

Links to local data: You will find links to local Durham data on our Funding Resources page: Funding Resources - Region of Durham

Durham’s Vital Data Dashboard is an interactive platform where users can explore the indicators and data used as part of Durham’s Vital Signs and Durham Community Foundation's 2023 report, Together we Thrive.

Grant Connect: Durham Community Foundation is pleased to provide charities and nonprofit organizations based in the Region of Durham and Northumberland County with the community license to Imagine Canada’s Grant Connect, a fundraising platform that connects organizations with funders who share their cause.

Deadline: January 12, 2025

The Sport Hosting Program provides funding to projects that aim to deliver major national and international amateur sport events in Ontario. The objectives of the program are to:

• create legacies that support sport at the provincial, regional and local level.
• provide economic benefits through increased levels of tourism, expenditures and improved public infrastructure.
• foster a culture of sport and physical activity in communities by creating role models and enhancing community spirit and involvement in sports.
• increase opportunities for Ontario athletes to compete and participate in events in Ontario.
• seek new avenues to build and develop the sport capacity of the province by providing additional ways to develop and train coaches, officials and volunteers
• create a culture of sport that engages all Ontarians.

Stream 1: Provincial or National Sport Organizations

• Provincial Sport/Multi-Sport Organizations recognized under Ontario’s Provincial Sport Recognition Policy.
• National Sport Organizations funded by Sport Canada.

Stream 2: Event host organizations

• Not-for-profit organizations (including universities and colleges).
• Ontario municipalities.
• Indigenous organizations, First Nation, Metis or Inuit communities.

Stream 3: Emerging sports

• Not-for-profit organizations (including universities and colleges).
• Ontario municipalities.
• Indigenous organizations, First Nation, Metis or Inuit communities.

Learn more...

Deadline: January 14, 2026

The Summer Employment Opportunities (SEO) Program provides funding to eligible not-for-profit organizations, municipalities, Indigenous organizations and First Nation communities to create meaningful summer employment opportunities for students.

Eligible Applicants

Organizations eligible for SEO Program funding include not-for-profit organizations who have been incorporated for at least one year, municipalities, Indigenous organizations, and First Nations communities. Eligible organizations must be legally incorporated or be band councils established under the Indian Act, Canada.

Organizations must have commercial general liability insurance coverage of $2,000,000 per occurrence on property damage, bodily injury and personal injury and valid Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) coverage or equivalent coverage under their commercial general liability insurance, to be eligible for SEO Program funding.

Eligible Employment Opportunities

SEO Program positions must offer training, work experience and skills transferable to the general workforce and to future careers. The positions must focus on activities that support the key sectors of tourism, culture, sport, and recreation.

Position placements are expected to provide employment for a minimum contract length of 217.5 hours or 30 days at 7.25 hours per day.

Eligible Students

Students hired by recipient organizations must meet the eligibility criteria of the program:



• All students must be currently enrolled in a secondary, or post-secondary institution or within six months of graduation and have reached the age of 15 upon commencement of employment.
• Students must be employed full time for a minimum employment contract length of 217.5 hours or 30 days at 7.25 hours per day.
• Proof of student enrolment must be provided to the employer.
• Students must be residents of Ontario during the period of employment.
• Students must be eligible to work in Canada and have a Social Insurance Number (SIN).
• Students should be living in Ontario at the time they start work. The intention of the program is to provide career-related experience to eligible students that are also eligible to work in Ontario.

Learn more...

Deadline: January 15, 2026

Founded by TD Bank Group in 1990, the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation (TD FEF) is a national charity that funds environmental projects across Canada. The Foundation supports a wide range of environmental initiatives, with a primary focus on environmental education and green space programs.

Eligible projects include schoolyard greening, park revitalization, community gardens, park programming and citizen science initiatives. For a full list, please see the Common Questions.

Submission Deadlines: January 15 and July 15.



Learn more...

Deadline: January 30, 2026

Canadian registered charities and qualified donees are invited to apply for grants that support local, grassroots community-based health and education programs that help youth reach their full potential.

• Single year funding.
• Up to $20,000 per year, except for Barrie and Central Ontario, which is up to $10,000.
• Maximum one application per calendar year to each Community Board region.

Your program must:

• Support youth up to age 29 in Canada experiencing obstacles to reaching their full potential.
• Focus on health or education.

*Preference is given to programs that best demonstrate how using technology can increase the effectiveness of their program to make positive impacts on communities.

Examples include:

• Automating or digitizing your programs to better support the communities you serve
• Improving your program’s digital capabilities, such as creating and delivering online learning curriculum.
• Building sensory-friendly environments for clients with disabilities.

Important note: Software products like Microsoft Office, Zoom and Google Suite, along with smartphones and tablets, do not qualify as technology in this context.



Learn more...

Deadline: January 31, 2026

The Clarington Community Funding Program provides financial support to eligible organizations who align with Clarington’s 2024-27 Strategic Plan priorities:

• Lead: Setting an example through exceptional services and governance.
• Connect: Creating a safe, diverse, inclusive and vibrant community.
• Grow Responsibly: Encouraging resilient, sustainable and complete community practices.

Quick Facts

• NOTE: In 2025, Community Funding Program applications moved to Service Clarington for improved accessibility and service delivery.
• Up to a maximum of $5,000 can be awarded per application.
• Once you’ve reached a total of $20,000 received, you must wait three years before your organization can apply again.
• Funding decisions are made by a committee of Municipal staff and members of the community.
• In-kind support is available to eligible organizations on an on-going basis.

Learn more...

Deadline: January 31, 2026

The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage – Local Festivals component provides funding to local groups for recurring festivals that present the work of local artists, artisans or heritage performers. This includes the celebration of LGBTQ2+ communities and Indigenous cultural celebrations. Successful applicants may receive up to 100 per cent of eligible expenses up to a maximum of $200,000 for festivals that:

• present the work of local artists, artisans, or heritage performers;
• actively involve members of the local community; and
• are intended for and accessible to the general public.

Application Deadlines:

When an application deadline falls on a weekend or statutory holiday, it is extended to the following working day.

• January 31 – for festivals starting between September 1 and December 31.
• April 30 – for festivals starting between January 1 and June 30.
• October 15 – for festivals starting between July 1 and August 31.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Letter of intent deadline: February 1, 2026

Funding Application Deadline: April 6, 2026

The Community Cultural Action Fund supports and strengthens the cultural, artistic and heritage expressions of official-language minority communities. Funding is typically provided to organizations in the form of contributions or grants.

Eligible organizations include:

• Canadian not-for-profit institutions and organizations; and
• provincial and territorial government organizations.

Eligible expenditures include, but are not limited to implementation costs to help ensure the long-term development of official-language minority communities in the area of arts, culture and heritage.

The following expenditures are not eligible: capital projects; operation of organizations; regular coordination, networking and strategic planning; needs analyses and research; professional training; and activities with an international scope.

Learn more...

Upcoming meeting: February 10, 2026

Deadline to apply to present at upcoming meeting: February 4, 2026

Following in the footsteps of the Baagwating Community Association (BCA) which dissolved in 2016, the MSIFN Donation Committee has continued to help organizations, communities, and individuals with charitable giving. The MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee aims to resume the generous work of their predecessors.

In an attempt to streamline all requiest from individuals, authorized representatives, organizations, and sponsorship of organized sports, we have created four applications forms. Each form consists of a checklist and guidelines of what the MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee would like to review when considering a request for assisance. 

Please note that if your request is approved by the MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee, those funds must be used within three (3) months of the approval date for the purpose intended, or returned to the Committee for redistribution.

Please choose the appropriate form, based on the following categories, for your request:

Financial Hardship: form for individuals with a need derived from harsh and unforeseen circumstances.

• Medical: Form for authorized representatives, i.e. Occupational Therapists, Social/Case Workers, Support Personnel, etc.,
• Organizations: Form for representatives of charitable organizations/events, not-for-profits, businesses, etc.,
• Sponsorships: Forms for sports teams or individual participants in organized sports.

The MSIFN Maada'ookii Committee plans to meet once a month to review requests. Please send in requests at least three working days prior to the next scheduled meeting for inclusion.



Learn more...

Deadline: February 6, 2026

The Foundation supports projects that address homelessness and the scandalous lack of affordable housing through research, policy development, effective and independent communication initiatives, capacity building and advocacy within the sector. We want to hear from groups engaged in collective efforts to examine and craft solutions for the root causes of Canada's housing crisis.

We particularly want to support projects that advance the cause of affordable and appropriate housing in collaboration with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action and projects that advance the cause of affordable and appropriate housing for newcomer, refugee and immigrant communities.

Our Funding Objectives

The Catherine Donnelly Foundation seeks to collaborate with organizations whose initiatives target the prevention and elimination of homelessness, as well as those advancing the cause of safe and affordable housing. We also wish to partner with groups seeking to move from an emergency response model to a systems-based approach to housing in order to affect real change in the housing situation of marginalized and low-income populations.

Our Approach

Projects that the Foundation will consider supporting may include projects that:

• Mobilize public engagement/education, animate action through information dissemination and that advocate for sustainable solutions to Canada's homelessness and affordable housing crisis.
• Advance public policy development in the housing sector.
• Strengthen networks and collective strategies among non-profit housing groups and organizations.

Priority will be given to projects that involve partnerships across organizational and sector lines (non-profit, public and private) and that value collaboration in pursuit of collective impact and sustainable change in the housing sector. Where possible, projects should be replicable.

Please note that the Housing stream does NOT fund:

• Capital campaigns (construction/renovation).
• Purely emergency response or support service provision by transitional housing organizations.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open January 7, 2026

Deadline: February 6, 2026

Stronger Communities. Stronger Canada.

Our Community Development Grants have two funding streams: Program Support and Operational Support. Grants must help organizations develop or sustain sports and recreation programming for kids between the ages of 4-18 in financial need or youth with disabilities between the ages of 4-25.

Program Support: Grants are awarded to help organizations develop or sustain the delivery of sport or physical activity-based programs.

Operational Support: Grants are awarded to help organizations build their capacity to provide more inclusive, equitable, safe sport participant experiences.

While organizations can apply more than once within the same application intake period, the requests must be clearly justified and not be dependent on funding from another Jumpstart Community Development Grant application. Funding is determined on the quality of each application and overall demand.

Learn more...

Note: Pre-applications coaching calls (required prior to applying for funding) are now open.

Deadline: Deadline to complete coaching call: February 11, 2026.



System Innovations grants support collaboratives as they aim to understand and strengthen systems, so they work better for youth.

Sectors such as education, justice, child welfare, language and culture, social services and employment play a critical role in the social and economic wellbeing of youth. When there are gaps in the infrastructure and interactions within and between these sectors, communities and organizations work together to create meaningful change. This is what we define as systems change.

Systems change work examines how policies, practices and procedures can be improved to better reflect the needs of youth impacted by systemic issues. In this grant stream, YOF prioritizes systems change work that improves the experiences of Indigenous and Black youth who continue to face system barriers and oppression. 

YOF recognizes that systems change takes time, trust and a deep understanding of how systems function. Youth must be included in the process along with youth-serving organizations and other key stakeholders who directly support policy, design and grassroots work. This collaboration ensures real change goes beyond any single organization and/or isolated program.

In the System Innovations grant stream, we invest in collaborative work that strengthens systems to:

• Improve how young people navigate and experience services.
• Reimagine more unique and equitable access to supports, resources and programs.
• Involve youth in the creation of new processes and approaches to better meet their needs.
• Reduce the impact of systemic barriers and oppression as a result of historical and current-day realities of Indigenous (First Nation, Métis and Inuit) and Black youth.

Webinars

Register to secure your spot in a webinar, where OTF staff will walk you through System Innovations grants, the eligibility criteria for organizations and financial statement requirements.

• Sign up for a webinar to learn about System Innovations grants.
• Sign up for a webinar to learn about the eligibility of organizations and financial statement requirements.

Learn More...

Coming Soon: Applications open January 7, 2026 for events taking place between August 1 and November 30, 2026.

Deadline: February 18, 2026

The Events component of the Multiculturalism and Anti-Racism Program (MARP) provides funding to community-based events that:

• promote intercultural or interfaith understanding.
• promote discussions on multiculturalism, diversity, racism and religious discrimination.
• celebrate a community’s history and culture such as heritage months recognized by Parliament.

Expected results are that participants and communities will gain knowledge, develop strategies and take action to:

• increase awareness of Canada’s cultural diversity.
• increase awareness of issues affecting full participation in society and the economy, related to culture, ethnicity and/or religion.
• increase capacity within communities to address racism and discrimination.

The Events component is actively seeking proposals that will include one or both of the following funding priorities, based on emerging governmental priorities. Funding priority may be given to:

• Initiatives that support community-led efforts to counter hate, misinformation, and polarization by fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and civic engagement. These public events aim to equip communities to recognize misinformation and hate-motivated actions and encourage the development of critical thinking leading to stronger social cohesion.
• Initiatives that foster human connection, civic participation, and a shared sense of belonging by bringing communities together through inclusive and interactive gatherings across the country. Activities such as cultural and/or intergenerational dialogue and participatory forums help reduce social isolation and build meaningful ties between people of diverse backgrounds. These efforts cultivate a Canada where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued, reinforcing equity and advancing the vision of a strong, vibrant, and united nation.



Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open January 19, 2026

Deadline: February 26, 2026

The Rural Ontario Development (ROD) Program replaces the Rural Economic Development (RED) Program. We modernized and expanded the program to offer $20 million in funding over 2 years. This program supports the objectives of Enabling Opportunity: Ontario’s Rural Economic Development Strategy.

The ROD Program provides cost-share funding for projects that help rural communities:

• address barriers and build capacity for economic development.
• to attract, retain and expand businesses.
• attract and retain investment and jobs.
• strengthen regional partnerships and economic resilience.
• address workforce development challenges.
• transform community assets to drive economic development.

To qualify for the ROD Program, you must meet both of the following requirements:

Your organization must be one of the following:

• a municipality.
• a not-for-profit organization.
• an Indigenous community or organization.
• a local services board.
• a small business with 1 to 20 employees.

Your project must be within an eligible rural area of Ontario.

Funding Streams

Rural Communities Stream: Rural communities: Municipalities, Indigenous communities, local services boards and not-for-profit organizations in rural Ontario can apply through the following streams:

Economic diversification, competitiveness and capacity building: projects that support communities to build economic development capacity and implement strategies that increase competitiveness to retain businesses, attract investment and enhance growth.

Strategies and plans: projects will develop strategies or plans that will enhance the ability of communities to be prepared for and engage in economic development activities. This stream offers up to 50% cost-share up, to $50,000.

Economic diversification and competitiveness: projects will support the implementation an existing economic development plan or strategy. This stream offers up to 50% cost-share, up to $150,000.

Capacity building events: projects that support organizations in building community capacity to deliver economic development activities. This stream offers up to 35% cost-share, up to $10,000.

Workforce development, attraction and retention: This stream funds projects that support communities to implement strategies and/or to undertake initiatives for attracting and retaining workers. This stream offers up to 50% cost-share, up to $150,000.

Community infrastructure enhancements: This stream funds projects that update or transform community assets that have been identified as important to the community’s economy. This stream offers up to 35% cost-share, with large projects eligible from $25,000 to $250,000 and for small projects eligible up to $25,000.

Rural Business Stream: Rural businesses

Small brick and mortar businesses in rural Ontario with 1 to 20 employees can apply through the business development stream. This stream offers up to 35% cost-share, to a maximum of $10,000.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open February 9, 2026

Deadline: February 27, 2026

The Canada Post Community Foundation provides grants to Canadian schools, charities and community organizations that make a difference in the lives of children and youth (up to age 21). Since 2012, the Foundation has granted $16.4 million to more than 1,400 projects across Canada. Grants are available for projects that support three areas:

Community: Projects that help foster a better future for children, including social services, arts and culture.

Education: Projects that offer education, therapeutic and rehabilitative programs.

Health: Projects that support the health and physical activity of children from vulnerable communities, or those with disabilities or illnesses.

Community-based project grants

Most of the grants we award fall into this category. Eligible projects should increase the capacity of an organization and create or expand services, rather than maintaining existing services. For example, purchasing new equipment or launching new programs. Project grants are available for projects valued at up to $25,000 each.

Signature Grant

The Signature Grant is meant to contribute to the overall work and mission of national organizations that deliver programs or support to Canadian children and youth. Up to three Signature Grants of $50,000 each can be awarded each year. Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Signature Grant.

Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Signature Grant



The Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Signature Grant is available to Indigenous regional, local or national organizations offering programming anchored in the principles of Indigenous truth and reconciliation that supports Indigenous children and youth across the country. One Indigenous Truth and Reconciliation Signature Grant of $50,000 can be awarded each year.

Learn more...

Quarter One Deadline: February 27, 2026

At Trillium Mutual we are proud of our strong legacy of community support over many years. We are committed to the sustainability of rural Ontario and we realize we have an opportunity to support programs that will foster the success of this responsibility. Trillium ROOTS Community Fund focus areas include:

Agriculture: Agriculture applications must benefit sustainability and development of the agriculture industry in Ontario.

Mental Wellness: Mental Wellness applications must be one-time rural / agricultural projects or programs without government funding.

Healthcare: Healthcare applications must be capital in nature.

Emergency Response: Applications must be capital in nature.

Environmental/Sustainability: Applications must be capital in nature.

Requests for funding are reviewed quarterly. We appreciate as much lead time as possible. The greater the advance notice we are given, the better decisions we can make regarding your application.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open February 4, 2026

Deadline: March 4, 2026

Improve physical spaces for community use

Programs and services that support the people of Ontario are delivered locally in a range of community buildings and spaces. These places provide opportunities for activity, recreation and connection and play an important role in creating healthy and vibrant communities where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

In the Capital grant stream, OTF funds projects that update buildings, enhance spaces, and purchase fixed and non-fixed equipment so people and communities can thrive.

Learn more...

Coming soon: Applications open February 4, 2026

Deadline: March 4, 2026 *or until the first 200 applications are received.

The TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund (ICF) offers $5,000 - $25,000 grants for Indigenous-led social, health and community programs. Together, we can make the future friendly by supporting Indigenous leaders and community groups who know their communities best.

The TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund provides flexible grant funding to Indigenous-led programs supporting Indigenous Peoples in Canada across all provinces and territories. Funding is available for projects focused on, but not limited to:

• Health, mental health and well-being
• Access to education and resources
• Preservation of the land and water
• Community building and enhancement
• Intergenerational language and cultural revitalization

*Preference may be given to programs where technology is being used to advance reconciliation.

Application deadlines

Applications are reviewed two times per year. Please allow 12 weeks following the application deadline to receive a response regarding your application status. Applications are due by midnight (your local time) on the following dates: 

Spring: February 4 to March 4, 2025, or until the first 200 applicants are received.

Fall: September 11 to October 9, 2025, or until the first 200 applicants are received.



Learn more...

Coming Soon: Applications open January 19, 2026

Deadline: March 5, 2026

Through the Indigenous Youth & Community Futures Fund (IYCFF), we invest in opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect with their land, languages and cultures, and each other. We want to support change-makers to engage in acts of decolonization, nation and community building and cultural resurgence. More specifically, the IYCFF grants are for Indigenous youth to develop and lead projects where they:

• learn about and are immersed in their lands, languages, rights, laws and cultures.
• participate in acts of resurgence, reclamation and cultural care.
• build relationships within and across diverse Indigenous communities and nations.
• address environmental racism and promote sustainable relationships with the land and water.

Learn more...

Coming Soon: Expression of interest deadline for all grant streams opens February 4, 2026

Application Deadline: April 15, 2026

The Youth Opportunities Fund (YOF) invests in community-led projects that play an essential role in creating safe spaces, empowering youth and families, supporting career pathways and addressing issues faced by our communities.

YOF prioritizes grassroots groups that are looking to address the experiences of Indigenous (First Nation, Metis or Inuit) and/or Black youth who continue to face systemic barriers and oppression.

Whether your group wants to pilot a new project or expand an existing one, YOF offers a range of grants that may be the right fit for your group.

Youth Innovations Test Grant

This grant is for youth-led grassroots groups and youth-adult partnerships. They can pilot a new project idea, research an issue or new concept, or strategize around an issue affecting youth to improve the social and economic wellbeing of youth.

Youth Innovations Scale Grant

This grant is for youth-led grassroots groups and youth-adult partnerships that have over two years of experience delivering direct programming to youth and now want to strengthen and grow their work, expand their reach or enhance the impact of their existing project.

Family Innovations Test Grant

Grassroots groups led by parents, guardians and caregivers can apply for funding to pilot a new project idea, research an issue or new concept, or strategize around an issue to support other parents, guardians, and caregivers. It’s an opportunity for parents, guardians and caregivers to address issues that impact their wellbeing and that of their families.

Family Innovations Scale Grant

This grant is for groups led by parents, guardians and caregivers that have over two years of experience delivering direct programming to other parents, guardians and caregivers. The group is looking to expand their reach, and enhance and strengthen their impact through proven community projects.

About Organizational Mentors



Organizational Mentors provide administrative support, project mentoring and financial accountability to grassroots groups funded through the Youth Innovations and Family Innovations streams. Grassroots groups and Organizational Mentors build partnerships to support the delivery of Youth Opportunities fund grants.

Learn more...

Deadline: Apply now to be added to a wait list.

Starter Company Plus Program is for existing business owners operating between 1 to 3 years (market ready/ready to sell), to expand (hiring employees, contractors or getting a location) or buying a business in Durham Region.

The Program provides:

• The program has 3 mandatory training days over 2 weeks (9:00am – 3:00pm) covering Business Concept, Organization, Operations and Customer Relations.
• The chance to receive up to $5,000 in seed funding to kick off a new business or expand your current business.
• The experience of running a successful business that may help you obtain more traditional financing such as a bank loan if you so require in the future.

This program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade.

Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing - Applications accepted on a rolling basis.



The Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF) provides annual funding of $5 million to deliver local and intercommunity transportation projects in unserved and underserved areas in Ontario, particularly in rural areas.

OTIF provides time-limited, application-based funding for up to 5 years to support the start-up and growth of transit services across the province. Through OTIF, the province is providing eligible communities with the support they need to build safe and reliable transit services.

Eligible applicants are municipalities, non-profit organizations and Indigenous communities.



Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing - Continuous intake until funding is fully allocated



The Skills Development Fund (SDF) Capital Stream offers funding to eligible organizations to:

• build new training centres.
• upgrade existing training centres.
• convert an existing building into a training centre.

The following organizations are eligible to apply to the SDF Capital Stream as a primary applicant:

• employers in Ontario (other than the educational organizations listed as being eligible to apply as partners).
• minister-approved, non-college apprenticeship program training delivery agents.
• non-profit organizations including Indigenous band offices and Indigenous Skills and Employment Training agreement holders.
• professional, industry or employer associations.
• trade unions or union-affiliated organizations.
• municipalities.
• hospitals.
• District Social Services Administration Boards.
• Consolidated Municipal Service Managers.

The following educational organizations are eligible to apply to the SDF Capital Stream as a partner with one or more of the eligible primary applicant organizations:

• district school boards.
• publicly assisted colleges, universities or Indigenous Institutes in Ontario.
• career colleges.
• private universities with consent from the Ministry of Colleges and Universities to offer degrees.



Learn more...

Deadline: Ongoing



The Museums Assistance Program (MAP) supports heritage institutions and workers in the preservation and presentation of heritage collections. The program fosters the preservation of Indigenous culture and facilitates access to heritage collections for all Canadians. It also promotes professional knowledge, skills and practices related to key museum functions.

Exhibition Circulation Fund - Ongoing

The Exhibition Circulation Fund component assists museums with the costs of hosting travelling exhibitions originating from another Canadian non-profit organization, an Indigenous organization, or from a federal heritage institution, and borrowing artefacts for exhibition purposes from a federal institution.



Learn more...

Deadline: Various dates

Need a job this summer?

The Ontario government — and its partners — offers many programs to help students find summer jobs. You need to apply for most programs. In some cases, the government can connect you to people who can help you with your job search.

The deadlines and what you need to apply depend on the program. Click on the link for each program for more detailed information.

Not a student?

Learn about government job funds, programs and online tools available to help people under 30 build skills, find a job or start businesses all year round.

Learn more...

Deadline: Applications accepted on a rolling basis

Maytree is committed to advancing systemic solutions to poverty and strengthening civic communities. We believe the most enduring way to keep people out of poverty is to reimagine and rebuild our public systems to respect, protect, and fulfill the economic and social rights of every person in Canada.

We welcome proposals from registered charities and community-based, non-profit organizations that have an explicit mandate to reduce poverty and build strong civic communities by advancing economic and social rights in Canada.

Please contact info@maytree.com with any questions.

Learn More...

Ongoing: Organizations must start the application process approx. eight months prior to an event

OCAF has three specific aims:

• to increase cultural tourism by providing investments to assist Ontario cultural organizations to promote, market and present one-off or first-time events, or a significant expansion of existing activity, which are designed to attract new tourists and visitors to cultural events;
• increase the earned revenue capacity of the applicant organization; and
• support events that foster economic growth and contribute to job creation.

First time applicants, and those requiring further information or assistance with the application, should contact OCAF staff prior to submitting a stage 1 application. The applicant organization must start the application process approximately eight months prior to an event.

OCAF has a two-stage application process which ensures that organizations do not dedicate significant time, effort and resources to an ineligible project. Please refer to “Important Dates” for a current list of stage 2 application deadlines.

Stage 1 requires the applicant to complete a three-page form with basic information about the proposed project and target market. This application is reviewed by program staff. If the project meets the general eligibility criteria, applicants will be provided with the Stage 2 application form.



The Stage 2 application requires the development of a detailed business case that includes a marketing plan, attendance and revenue projections and an analysis of the benefits of the project for the community. Stage 2 applications are reviewed by the OCAF board once staff has done a preliminary assessment.

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Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

FCC Community Funding is one way we help enhance communities where our employees and customers work and live. Eligible organizations can apply for up to $10,000 in FCC Community Funding annually and applications are accepted year-round.

Eligible for funding:

Initiatives, projects or capital purchases focused on:

• Food security: organizations or programs addressing issues around food insecurity.
• Well-being: supporting the physical or mental health of those working in the Canadian food system.
• Education and food literacy: education for people about agriculture and food; creating understanding of production practices and careers in the industry.
• Public trust in agriculture and food: promoting the Canadian food system.
• Community enhancements: making a difference where our employees and customers live and work.

Learn More...

Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

We believe that combating the climate emergency is both an absolute necessity and an enormous opportunity for economic growth. We want to help halt and reverse the effects of climate change, build a green economy, and strengthen community resilience.

Our climate change grants support nature-based solutions, low-emission and renewable technologies, green building and living, and community resilience. Understanding that greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are the driver of climate change, we prioritize projects with the potential to enable large-scale emission reductions in Canada.

Learn More...

Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

As part of our commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada, the Peter Gilgan Foundation dedicates funds to reducing barriers and uplifting opportunities and wellbeing for Indigenous young people. Informed by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) as well as the guidance of community leaders who generously share their wisdom and worldviews, we strive to ensure:

• Our objectives centre Indigenous self-determination.
• Our approach remains rooted in relationship.
• Our leadership emerges with humility.

We strengthen both direct youth services and the wider ecosystem of Indigenous-led organizations across Canada, recognizing that reconciliation requires long-term commitment, listening, and trust-based relationships. Our focus areas reflect this commitment and the interconnected social, cultural, and economic dimensions of youth wellbeing.

• Housing & safe spaces.
• Health & healing.
• Education & knowledge.
• Economic opportunity & building capacity.
• Food security & sovereignty.

Funding is available as both project grants and general operating grants. Project grants fund specific programs or activities while general operating grant funds can cover any costs of running the organization and fulfilling the charitable mission. 

Registered charities and qualified donees are welcome to apply for either type of grant depending on what would best suit the needs of the organization. Nonprofit organizations are only eligible to apply for project grant funding at this time.

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Open Deadline: Applications are accepted year-round

We believe that all children, regardless of the circumstances of their birth, deserve opportunities to thrive. The Children, Youth & Families program partners with organizations that break down barriers, open up opportunities, and provide comprehensive, integrated solutions rather than fragmented approaches. By valuing lived experience, supporting community-rooted leadership, and prioritizing measurable impact, the program seeks to advance equity and create lasting change for youth and families.

There are four funding streams:

Children & Youth Mental Health

We support organizations that make mental health care more accessible, timely, and responsive for children and youth. Our focus is on breaking down barriers that prevent young people from getting help, while ensuring services are delivered by licensed professionals in ways that reflect the communities they serve. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Improved coping skills and resilience in children and youth. 
• Reduced waiting times for children and youth to access clinical and/or therapeutic services. 
• Increased access to culturally appropriate, community-based care models.

Education & Economic Opportunities

We support organizations that open doors for young people, helping them move from adolescence to independence with confidence and opportunity. Our focus is on approaches that build lasting pathways—supporting students to graduate high school, pursue post-secondary education, and connect with meaningful employment or entrepreneurship. We also support work that provides routes to good jobs and entrepreneurship for mothers and caregivers. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Increased high school graduation and access to post-secondary for underrepresented youth.
• Established routes to good jobs and entrepreneurship for youth and for family caregivers. 

Food Security & Systems

Food insecurity is one of the strongest social determinants of health, linked to long-term negative and chronic health outcomes. We aim to increase access to high-quality, culturally relevant food while promoting dignity, choice, and stability. We support approaches that go beyond emergency food relief and instead create sustainable systems that improve health and opportunity for children, youth, and families at the highest risk of food insecurity. The outcomes we strive to support include: 

• Improved school food programs in Ontario and Alberta.
• Expanded access to fresh, culturally appropriate food in underserved neighbourhoods through public markets and urban agriculture.
• Reduced waste of high-quality food through food rescue and redistribution .

GTA communities

Click here to learn more about the GTA Communities stream. 

Grant Types

It’s up to you to determine what type of grant to apply for. The Peter Gilgan Foundation accepts applications for three types of grants:

• Project grants.
• Capacity-building grants.
• General operating grants.

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Deadline: Applications are reviewed throughout the year

ScotiaRISE is our 10-year, $500 million initiative to promote economic resilience among disadvantaged groups. By working together to remove barriers to advancement and increase access to opportunities, we can create a more inclusive and resilient world for everyone - and for every future.

Scotiabank will consider funding for:

• Organizations that are either registered charities or non-profit organizations in their jurisdictions.
• Organizations that operate in countries where Scotiabank does business.
• Organizations with a sustained record of achievement.
• Programs that have measurable impact.

Your application must include:

• A brief description of the organization, including goals and achievements.
• A full description of the project for which you are requesting funding, including budget, expected outcome, benefits to end users, defined metrics and recognition plan.
• Complete list of Board of Directors, Executive Management and Campaign Cabinet if applicable.
• Current financial statements.

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Deadline: CIBC Foundation requests are accepted year-round, but are reviewed annually between March and October.

Built on our longstanding history of supporting our communities, the CIBC Foundation serves our commitment to creating a world without limits to ambition. Focus areas and funding guidelines:

Supporting cancer initiatives

Our ambition: To create a future where no one has to fear a cancer diagnosis.

We invest in:

• Cancer research, treatment, screening and diagnosis.
• Wellness, survivorship and patient support programs.

Championing inclusive communities

Our ambition: To create social and economic opportunities for all.

We invest in:

• Projects increasing access to education and employment outcomes for underserved communities, with a focus on reskilling, upskilling, and addressing the digital divide.
• Healthy active living, education & enrichment, and help for high needs kids supporting children 13 and under.

Investing in financial education

Our ambition: To ensure everyone has the skills, knowledge, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of financial wellbeing.

We invest in:

• Financial education resources and learning opportunities.

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Application Deadline: Ongoing

The Mayor's Community Development Fund (MCDF) is a community development fund offered by the Town of Whitby to support local community groups, events, and initiatives that will benefit the community, including applications for COVID-19 support. The MCDF offers funding to local initiatives in our community through lead grants up to $25,000 and community grants up to $5,000.

The funding is raised through two events, The Mayor's Gala and the Mayor's Golf Tournament. Up to 50% of the proceeds raised by the Mayor's Golf Tournament and Mayor's Fundraiser will be awarded to a lead cause or charity. The balance will be awarded in smaller community grants.

If you apply, you can also request one of the following silent auction item packages:

• Whitby/Brooklin Retailer Gift Basket ($150 value).
• Whitby Recreation Gift Certificate ($250 value).

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Application Deadline: Ongoing

The Economic Development Initiative (EDI) is part of Canada's Action Plan for Official Languages 2023-2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration, which reaffirms our government's commitment to official languages.

EDI helps address the economic challenges and builds on the strengths of each region to facilitate growth in official language minority communities. Through EDI, FedDev Ontario is helping Francophone communities in southern Ontario grow their economies.

Eligible applicants are incorporated Francophone or bilingual not-for-profit organizations located in southern Ontario that provide programs or services in French to Francophone communities, including:

community and economic development organizations

not-for-profit organizations and associations

post-secondary institutions that offer full-time programs in French

What types of projects are eligible?

Economic Development and Diversification: Projects that respond to the needs of Francophone communities, including implementing region-specific growth strategies. Priority may be given to projects related to women, youth, clean technology, the social economy (early childhood, integration of newcomers, etc.), and tourism.

Business and Economic Development: Projects that respond to the needs and foster the economic growth of industry sectors (e.g., manufacturing, information technology). This includes activities that increase business management capacity, reskill or train workers or adopt digital technologies.

Strategic Community Economic Planning: Projects that enhance the economic base and competitiveness of Francophone communities and small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Projects must focus on incremental activities and must increase the services and/or products of an organization above and beyond the organization's current day-to-day operations or already funded activities.

Ready to find out more? Reach out to edi-ide@feddevontario.gc.ca or call 1-866-593-5505 for more information on eligibility.

How to apply: Contact one of our bilingual officers by email or at 1-866-593-5505 at any time for more information and to receive an application form.

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Find out what funding is currently available from the Government of Ontario, if you’re eligible and what you need to apply.

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All program area grants are accessible through their portal and registration must be complete at least 30 days before you wish to apply.

Canada Council grants are now organized into six programs:

1. Explore and Create;
2. Engage and Sustain;
3. Creating, Knowing and Sharing: The Arts and cultures of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples;
4. Supporting Artistic Practice;
5. Arts Across Canada;
6. Arts Abroad.

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Deadline: Varied

Apply for National Housing Strategy or other CMHC funding to build or renovate affordable housing.

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Find funding opportunities for business and not-for-profit organizations in southern Ontario.

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The Government of Canada offers a wide array of granting opportunities around culture, history and sport. See an alphabetical listing of grants available here.

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See a list of funding programs for jobs, training and social development projects.

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Grant and Contribution Funding Opportunities for programs under the Public Health Agency of Canada.

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Innovation Canada offers an online search tool that allows companies to search for relevant funding. 

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Find information and supports for starting a business in Durham Region.

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The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) provides grants to Ontario-based individual artists and arts professionals, ad hoc groups/collectives and organizations. Grants support a range of arts activities and disciplines.

The OAC offers two types of grant programs:

Project grants – one-time grants for specific projects, available to individual artists, ad hoc groups/collectives and organizations.

Operating grants – ongoing support for Ontario-based, not-for-profit arts organizations and for-profit book and magazine publishers.

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The Funding Portal is a subscription-based national bilingual e-commerce platform and gateway to improve access to government funding. The Portal aggregates thousands of sources of funding within a searchable database.

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Find free webinars and other resources through the following sites:

Invest Durham

Imagine Canada

Charity Village

Community Foundations of Canada

Ontario Nonprofit Network

Ontario Trillium Foundation